The caregiver credit option is a responsible preventive measure—it would provide improved retirement security for millions of Americans–especially women, whom the caregiver role often falls upon–and recognize the valuable caregiving services that they provide for our country’s children and the growing elderly population.
There is a simple truth that we here at the National Organization for Women understand intimately: the fight for women’s equality is not over. This Thursday, August 14th, 2014 is the 79th anniversary of Social Security and, in the face of repeated attacks on reproductive health services, continued workplace and wage discrimination, and the persistent reliance on women as guardians and caregivers, we must celebrate and protect one of the greatest pieces of legislation in the United States’ history.
Most Americans understand that Social Security is a vital tool for our economy and for millions of retired Americans. In 2011, our Social Security system kept more than 21 million people out of poverty, especially women of color and women who work at low-wage jobs.
Representative Nita Lowey has introduced a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Social Security Caregiver Credit Act (H.R. 5024), dedicated to providing benefits to those who take time out of the workforce to care for loved ones. Urge your representative to become a cosponsor of this important bill!
Two and a half weeks ago, I was thrilled to open the annual conference of the National Organization for Women in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Albuquerque felt like the perfect place to meet up with activists and map out action plans to move the feminist agenda forward. Just a year ago, the women of Albuquerque formed an emergency coalition, Respect ABQ Women, to fight against a dangerous municipal anti-abortion ballot measure.