The observance of Juneteenth Day not only gives us all an opportunity to celebrate the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of slavery in our country, but it also provides us with a chance to have an open and honest conversation about race relations in our society. This important date underscores the incredible gains we've made together in addressing racial inequality and serves as a valuable reminder that our collective march towards justice continues in our classrooms, governments, and places of worship. Read more »
I support President Obama and share his vision for enhanced economic growth and greater access to global markets, but I categorically disagree with my Republican colleagues regarding how we can achieve such goals. We must find a better way to support American jobs and secure our collective financial future without compromising our country's critical labor, safety, and environmental standards. Read more »
For women who choose to breastfeed, this landmark legislation requires insurance companies to provide access to critical coverage of breastfeeding equipment, support, and counseling at no cost. Sadly, recent reports demonstrate a failure by some insurers to comply with ACA requirements. Needless to say, this is deeply troubling and simply unacceptable. Read more »
Proper training of our law enforcement officers in these situations can help prevent tragedies before they occur, which is why I am delighted that my amendment to the FY 16 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill passed. My amendment will increase funding for the Mentally Ill Offender Treatment and Crime Reduction Act (MIOTCRA) to help provide assistance and training for police departments to safely and appropriately dealing with mentally ill individuals. I am optimistic that efforts like this will help prevent future tragedies like that of Dontre Hamilton. Read more »
Most Americans tend to think of human trafficking as a foreign issue, as if our country were somehow immune to such horrific darkness. Unfortunately, these atrocities are taking place in our own backyards at alarming rates, and they're happening to the most vulnerable among us. Needless to say, we cannot stand idly by while women and children are traded and sold like modern-day slaves. Victims of such abhorrent practices need allies in their corner, and I take pride in knowing Congress has finally decided to get into the fight. Read more »
With every picture and brush stroke, these talented students continue to awaken joy in our community through their creativity and passion. Their desire to express and inspire through art echoes the words of Henry David Thoreau who taught us •the world is but a canvas to the imagination.' Read more »
The deep fractures within the Republican Party have not only left them feckless in their ability to govern, but have also led them to go against their own policies. Today's rush by House Republicans to push this flawed budget conference report agreement to a vote violates their own three day rule, which stipulates that a bill must be public for three days before it can be voted on. More importantly, such dysfunction has made it harder for those battling poverty to provide for their loved ones, compromised the health coverage of everyday Americans, and hampered our capacity to innovate and grow our economy. Read more »
In many cases across the country, survivors of abuse and assault lack sufficient access to vital services and treatment like emotional counseling, health services, and legal aid. The bipartisan Sexual Assault Survivor Bill of Rights Resolution addresses this concern and sends a clear message to survivors everywhere that they deserve equal treatment and that they are not alone. Read more »
As Financial Literacy Month comes to a close, it is important to recognize that financial literacy isn't just a concept that should be embraced by adults. All Americans – regardless of age – should equip themselves with the tools and knowledge to achieve their financial goals. Read more »
Each year, we set aside a day to remind ourselves of the debt we owe the Earth for sustaining, nourishing, and protecting us year round. We often take for granted the resources our planet has provided us, but this mentality must change if we want the opportunity to pass on a habitable environment to our children and grandchildren. Read more »
