Press Releases

Today, Congressional Black Caucus Chairman G. K. Butterfield (NC-01) released the following statement recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Social Security Act, signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 14, 1935:

“For eight decades, Social Security has served as the foundation of retirement security for millions of Americans and has proven to be the country’s most effective poverty prevention program.

“Social Security keeps 22 million Americans out of poverty, including more than 1 million children, nearly 15 million seniors, and 6 million adults younger than 65.  In addition to retirement, the Social Security program has helped many individuals avoid poverty, and together with Medicare, Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, Social Security provides essential protections and safeguards for America’s families. 

“As we recognize 80 years of effective solutions for America’s families, the Congressional Black Caucus remains committed to our work to defend Social Security and other social safety net programs that serve to protect our most vulnerable communities and ensure opportunity for all Americans today and for future generations.”

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Since its establishment in 1971, Members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) have joined together to empower America’s neglected citizens and address their legislative concerns.  For more than 40 years, the CBC has consistently been the voice for people of color and vulnerable communities in Congress and has been committed to utilizing the full Constitutional power and statutory authority of the United States government to ensure that all U.S. citizens have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream.  To learn more about the Congressional Black Caucus, visit http://cbc-butterfield.house.gov.

Media inquiries: Candace L. Randle at (202) 593-1331 or Candace.Randle@mail.house.gov