Celebrate 75 Years of Social Security

August 13, 2010

When Social Security was signed into law on August 14, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said:

"The civilization of the past hundred years, with its startling industrial changes, has tended more and more to make life insecure. Young people have come to wonder what would be their lot when they came to old age. The man with a job has wondered how long the job would last. It is, in short, a law that will take care of human needs and at the same time provide the United States an economic structure of vastly greater soundness."

His remarks ring true today.

This year, over 53 million Americans will receive a benefit they earned and count on from Social Security. For an economy that has failed many, Social Security provides certainty in an uncertain time. As we reflect on the successes of Social Security, it is necessary to acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform is currently holding closed-door meetings in Washington. Many of the commissioners favor cutting Social Security benefits, including raising the retirement age. This is despite the fact Social Security is paid for by payroll deductions and does not contribute a penny to the federal deficit.

AFSCME has joined with a coalition of 60 groups dedicated to fighting cuts to Social Security. The Strengthen Social Security campaign produced this video outlining the attacks on Social Security and what we're up against:  

Social Security remains one of the most effective and popular government programs of all time. A new poll released this week shows the public is overwhelmingly opposed to any attempts to cut Social Security benefits. Congress needs to listen to the American people and reject these misguided efforts. Let your representatives know where you stand — tell them to strengthen Social Security... don't cut it.