 |
 |
|
|
ADA Updates"What Would Martin Do?" Third Annual Forum -
"What Would Martin Do?" Essay Contest Winners Anounced -
Hawkeye Vision 2012: Caucusing for Working Families -
Congressional Briefing on Voter Suppression Hosted by the ADA Education Fund -
Tuesday, December 20, 2011 Hosted by the ADA Education Fund. What Would Martin Do? Essay Contest -
Continue reading for rules and prizes! ADA Today Fall Edition Just Released! -
October Jobs Report Released -
Happy Birthday, Rep. Lynn Woolsey! -
Tomorrow - ADA Ed Fund Hosts Social Security Briefing -
ADA Statement on Latest Jobs Report -
ADA Statement on the Occupy Movement: -
Statement in Solidarity with American Postal Workers -
Out of Afghanistan -
64th Annual Banquet a Huge Success! -
ADA Statement on the American Jobs Act - ADA National Director Michael J. Wilson today issued the following statement about President Obama’s speech before a joint session of Congress on the jobs crisis:
ADA Banquet to Honor Leader Pelosi -
Find out more information and reserve your tickets for this exciting event! Free Doc Film Screening Hosted by the ADA Education Fund -
ADA Today - Just Released! -
ADA Ed Fund Congressional Briefing on Marriage Equality -
Tuesday, July 26, 2011 Panelists: Act Now to Support Fair Trade! -
ADA President to Retire from Congress -
The John Kenneth Galbraith Policy Fellowship Program -
UPDATE: The application deadline or the John Kenneth Galbraith Policy Fellowship is now over. We will be contacting applicants soon with our decision. Thank you!
The ADA Education Fund awards Galbraith Fellowships to outstanding college graduates or graduate students. Fellows are selected from a national pool of applicants and must demonstrate strong research/writing skills, community service, a commitment to liberal ideals, and plans for future study or a career in public policy. This is a paid fellowship. Join Us & Rally for DC Democracy! -
Congressional Briefing Series: The Youth Unemployment Crisis -
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 Unemployment at 9.1% -- No Deficit Reduction Without Jobs -
A Liberal Perspective on the Federal Budget Battles -
Top 10 Reasons to Reject Ryan -
ADA Statement on Osama Bin Laden -
ADA's Response to the President's Deficit Reduction Speech -
Today, We Are One. -
The ADA Education Fund also honored Dr. King at the annual "What Would Martin Do?" event held in celebration of King's birthday. Watch the video highlights here! 2010 ADA Congressional Voting Record -
The ADA Congressional Voting Record has been issued every year since 1947. It reflects 20 key votes on domestic and foreign policy and is the standard indicator of American political ideology. Download it here! Tell Congress NO New Nuclear Power! -
Learn more and sign the petition! Misguided Priorities -
Join us in sending them a message regarding their misguided priorities. ADA Today Released! -
Unemployment Falls to 8.9% -
We've Got a Slugger Too -
The blogger taped the lengthy discussion and Walker revealed his union-busting strategies.
Investigate Justices Thomas and Scalia NOW! -
Maryland: Next in the Marathon for Marriage Equality -
NLRB is Changing the Rules of the Game -
The rule would require employers to post a notice telling workers about their existing rights under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA)... read more. Will yesterday's Super Bowl be the last? -
Watch our "What Would Martin Do?" Forum -
Tell Your Representatives Not to Repeal Health-care -
Let your Representative know that you want to keep this long overdue health care reform. Annual "What Would Martin Do?" Forum -
In celebration of the Martin Luther King holiday, the Americans for Democratic Action Education Fund will sponsor its annual “What Would Martin Do?” forum on Capitol Hill Friday, January 14th. And the Winners Are -
ADA Rejects Obama's Deal -
Americans for Democratic Action stands fiercely opposed to the “deal” made between the White House and the GOP Leadership on
Rejection of the Deficit Commission -
The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform saw many of its core recommendations rejected today. The Commission's report which proposes a program of harsh austerity measures, calling for cuts in social security and other benefits which would prolong the Great Recession and punish America’s working families firmly failed to meet the reality of our nation's current economic circumstance.
“We had low expectations for this Commission’s report and they have met those low expectations.” said Michael J. Wilson...
Miserable Jobs Report Mocks Holiday Hopes -
URGENT: Act Now for DADT Repeal! -
Sign the petition today for DADT repeal! Act Now! Time is running out for the unemployed -
One in 10 Americans are unemployed and Congress is not working to help them. Click here to sign our petition.
ADA Ed Fund, Post-Election Symposium -
National Day of Action Against Wage Theft -
The Real Story on the Jobs Numbers -
ADA Responds to the Midterm Election -
Dear Mr. President: a Note on Foreclosures -
Repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell! -
Since its inception, the "Don't Ask Don't Tell" policy has resulted in the removal of more than 11,000 members of our nation's armed forces. Many of these servicemen and women were valuable translators and all of them, were willing to sacrifice for their country. Congress needs to forget about elections and remember there job; it's time to repeal this discriminatory and dangerous policy now. Don't Kill Growth & Jobs -
300 economists and major civic leaders, including ADA board member Jamie Galbraith, signed a statement reflecting grave concern that the “austerity economics" being advocated by many conservatives in Washington will upset our already weak economic recovery. Read the whole statement here. Get the fact sheets!
Featured Candidate -
Panel on Working Class Prosperity - ADA National Director will be on a Panel with Elizabeth Warren and other leading voices to discuss working class prosperity on September 16th. Panel: Working Class Prosperity & African Americans: The Economics of Foreclosure, Credit Cards, and Wages Hosted by Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN)
Jobless Rate 9.6% in August - Manufacturing Down -
Thank You, Judge Walker! -
Last night's court decision was a huge win for those of us on the side of equal rights. The discriminatory law, known as Proposition 8, was deemed unconstitutional by Judge Vaughn Walker. Sign the Petition for the Public Option -
ADA President, Representative Lynn Woolsey (D-CA), is standing up for the Public Option! Rep. Woolsey, with 128 co-sponsors is making the case that the public option would actually reduce the deficit. A new report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) that the public option could save the federal government an estimated $68 billion between 2014 an 2020. Briefing on Women & Unemployment -
On Friday, July 16th, at 2261 Rayburn HOB the ADA Education Fund will be hosting a Congressional Briefing on Women, Unemployment and the Great Recession from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. The briefing will highlight the results and policy suggestions concluded by recent reports from both Women's Voices. Women Vote and the Women and Girls Foundation of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Meet ADA's New President! -
Petition! Extension of Unemployment Benefits Now! -
Will you stand with ADA and demand that the Senate get back to work on a bill that will help struggling families in these tough times? Sign the petition and demand the Senate to delay their August recess until they address helping our fellow Americans! Petition AGAINST Offshore Drilling -
Was the Deep Horizon disaster enough to your Senator's eyes to the dangers of this backwards policy? Make sure they get the message by signing on to the petition today!
ADA Vote Chart Shows Polarized Congress; Dependable Liberals in Both Houses -
See for yourself who the 98 House Democrats are that received a 100% and the 75 Republicans that scored 0% (voting against every single progressive initiative). Find the most liberal Republicans and conservative Democrats. ADA Celebrates Local Progressive Heros -
Official unemployment rate stays 9.7%, Real rate at 17.1% -
National ADA Roosevelt Day Dinner! -
What's the Annual Roosevelt's Day Dinner? It started when Eleanor Roosevelt, one of ADA's founders, hosted an annual dinner party in New York City. Over 60 years later, ADA still continues the tradition...
The Roll of Shame -
A Deceptive Job Recovery -- Real Unemployment at 16.8% - The real unemployment rate released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of 16.8%, is much worse than the official 9.7% rate reported for February. The long-sought improvement in the labor market is imperceptible at this time as more than 36,000 new jobless claims were filed. National Senate Call-in Week -
Call your Senator now toll free at 866-544-7573! Don't know who your Senator is? Look it up on our Contact Lawmakers tool! Real Unemployment Rate at 16.77% -
ADA's Statement on DADT Hearing -
Fight for Fair Elections- Sign the Petition! -
Emergency rally in DC - can you come? -
Unemployment: From Worst to Bad -
The real unemployment rate released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 17.3%, over 7 points higher than the official rate.
ADA Education Fund Poll Results -
D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty Signed Marriage Equality Law - Today is a step forward towards equality of all DC citizens. D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty signed the city’s same-sex marriage bill during a public ceremony Friday morning. This is it, Medicare for All, single-payer advocates! - Update: Despite tens of thousands of calls and emails to your Senators, Senate Republicans have forced Senator Sanders to withdraw his single-payer amendment. Thank you for your efforts. Single-Payer Health Care Reform - A single-payer health care system will be heard on the Senate floor. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) filed Senate Amendment No. 2837 with two co-sponsors, Senators Roland Burris (D-IL) and Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH). Act Now! Real Unemployment Rate at 17.5% - ADA Calls for Job Creation Plan -
The real rate includes marginally attached workers which the BLS reports “are neither working nor looking for work but indicate that they want and are available for a job and have looked for work sometime in the recent past... Being a Woman is Not a Pre-Existing Condition - Washington, DC – Americans for Democratic Action announced today plans to participate in the National Women’s Law Center campaign “Being a woman is not a pre-existing condition.” On November 4th in Washington DC, ADA members will offer stories and testimonies about health care from noon to 12:30 in Dupont Circle. The rally will take place all day from 9am-9pm. ADA Blasts Senate for Inaction on Unemployment - Washington, DC – Americans for Democratic Action strongly urged the Senate to act on the pending effort to pass an extension of unemployment benefits. “Another week has gone by with no action to extend unemployment benefits from the Senate,” said Michael J. Wilson, ADA National Director. “Tens of thousands of families face imminent disaster while Republicans delay.” ADA Takes it to the Streets -
See what else ADA is doing to support LGBT equality here.
Time to Act on Unemployment - Over a million workers are expected to exhaust their unemployment insurance by year's end unless the Senate acts now to extend benefits. Senate Republicans are holding things up. Again. Send your Senators this email and tell them to act. ADA Endorses the National Equality March - ADA has endorsed marriage equality as a key civil rights initiative for our organization and for the country. Today, ADA is taking another step forward by endorsing the National Equality March that will occur this weekend in Washington, DC. Unemployment Crisis Continues - We cannot underscore enough the seriousness of the unemployment situation. There is no recovery without job creation. It is critical that the Senate pass the extension of unemployment benefits quickly, otherwise hundreds of thousands of Americans will lose their benefits. We must continue to build jobs and consumer confidence and resist government paralysis in order to avoid a double dip recession. Take Action to End Workplace Discrimination - The House Committee on Education and Labor began hearings today on the Employee Non-Discrimination Act. This landmark civil rights legislation would prohibit employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identification. ADAction: Contact your lawmakers and tell them to support the Employee Non-Discrimination Act. ADA Urges House to Extend Unemployment Benefits - The House will vote soon on a bill to extend unemployment benefits for more than 300,000 jobless people who live in states with unemployment rates of at least 8.5 percent and who are scheduled to run out of benefits by the end of September. Click here to send an email to your lawmaker urging them to pass the extension. The First Step Towards DOMA Repeal! -
ADA Pushes Congress to Address Unemployment Crisis - ADA launched today an intensive effort to address growing unemployment. “The first step is to extend unemployment insurance for the thousands of unemployed workers who will run out of benefits beginning this month,” said Michael J. Wilson, ADA’s National Director. Stand up for workers-- sign the petition! - While we celebrate Labor Day across the nation, please take one minute to sign the petition and stand up for workers across America and support the Employee Free Choice Act. Happy Labor Day!
ADA Highlights Real Unemployment Rate - The real unemployment rate released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 16.8%, 7 points higher than the officially reported rate. ADA Director Appears on C-Span -
Watch ADA National Director Michael J. Wilson on C-Span's Washington Journal. Michael J. appeared this morning to discuss ADA's role in developing public policy and the fall legislative agenda.
ADA Director Calls for Robust Public Health Care Option -
ADA Mourns the Loss of Senator Kennedy -
ADA Kicks off Netroots Nation -
Rep. Jan Schakowsky - “Michael J. Wilson is an outstanding choice to lead the Americans for Democratic Action. Since I first met Michael in Chicago over 25 years ago, I have watched him use his enormous talents and persuasive personality to fight for economic justice. He is a skilled leader who has deep roots in the consumer and labor movements. Michael brings not just a range of organizing, Capitol Hill and administrative experience to his new role but also a passion for positive change that will help ADA grow and prosper in the years ahead.” Robert Reich on Michael J. Wilson - “Michael’s experience on Capitol Hill, in the Labor Department, and in the labor movement gives him exactly the right experiences to lead ADA at this crucial time. I know he’ll be a strong advocate for the progressive values and policies that ADA has always fought for, on Capitol Hill, with the Obama Administration, and with our allies in the progressive community.” Wilson Responds to Unemployment -
“President Obama’s economic recovery plan is working but the real rate of unemployment underscores an urgent need to spur more hiring. “A jobless recovery is not a recovery." ADA Names New National Director -
“Michael has the leadership experience and political savvy needed to drive a strong, progressive policy agenda in Washington,” said Richard Parker, President of ADA’s board. ADA in the News - Michael J. Wilson: Big Business Must Pay its Fair Share to Help America Survive Recession Big corporations want to have their cake and eat it too. They want the security and infrastructure of doing business in the United States, but they want someone else to pay for it. Now they're crying crocodile tears because President Obama wants to close tax-loopholes and offshore shelters that have allowed them to escape paying their fair share. Help your Senators Confirm Judge Sotomayor - The U.S. Senate has begun hearings on the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court. Help your Senators get Sotomayor confirmed. Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 and urge them to support a fair confirmation process. Take Action to Stop Hate Crimes - As early as Wednesday, July 15, the Senate will likely vote on the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act, a bill that would provide significant improvements to our current hate crimes prevention laws. The House of Representatives passed their version of the bill in April. Senator Franken Stands Up for Working Americans - Only one hour after being sworn in, Senator Al Franken had an announcement to make. "As of about half an hour ago, I became the co-sponsor of my first piece of legislation in the Senate. And it's something called the Employee Free Choice Act."
The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) is the most significant workers' rights legislation in decades. Passing EFCA will make it easier for working people to join a union by dismantling the barriers that prevent them from having fair elections and an equal voice in the workplace. Take action now by contacting your lawmakers with ADA's online lobby tools. Real Rate of Unemployment at 16.5% - The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has released the officially measured unemployment figures for June, showing that 14.7 million people are unemployed for a rate of 9.5%. When part-time workers involuntarily unemployed and the marginally employed are included, the “real rate” of unemployment reaches 16.5 percent. These dismal figures underscore the urgent need for significant stimulus.
Act now-- House to Vote on Climate Bill -
The U.S. Congress is expected to vote TODAY on the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (also called the Waxman-Markey Climate bill). This landmark bill could break our dangerous reliance on foreign oil, make our nation the world leader in clean energy jobs and technology, and cut down on dangerous factors which accelerate the deteriorating atmosphere. Find out more about the legislation and call your Representatives at (202) 224-3121 to urge them to support the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. It's time we take a solid step foward towards a cleaner, safer future. Health Care Reform Now - Watch ADA's latest video on the national health care crisis. The time for major health care reform is now! Leave a Comment for Amy Isaacs! - Send Amy Isaacs off with a fond farewell! Amy is retiring this month after 20 years as ADA National Director. Amy began her career at ADA as an intern in 1969 and has moved through the ranks serving as Deputy National Director (1980-1989), Executive Assistant to the Director (1975-1980) and Director of Organization (1970-1974). Tell Cheney to Shut Up! -
Grill Congress on Health Care - Submit your questions to the Congressional Progressive Caucus on health care reform. Their answers to the questions selected will be posted to You Tube on Thursday. Submit your question here. And check the Caucus' website tomorrow to see the answers. We are at a critical point in the health care debate. Lawmakers are debating the details of President Obama's plans for reform right now. Health Care Fight Brewing on Hill - The next major battle on Capitol Hill will be over health care and ADA is ready for it. ADA has advocated for a national health service since 1972 and has been at the forefront of the current fight for a single-payer plan that covers everybody. We plan to continue that fight. You can join in the fight by visiting the health care reform page in our Issues section. You'll find the latest updates, reports, opinions, videos, and be able to lobby your lawmakers for a single-payer. All in one place! Get active now! Stop Tax Cheats - ADA has fought for many years for Congress to close the tax loopholes. Under the leadership of ADA counsel Jack Blum, ADA general counsel, our argument can be seen and heard from the New York Times to the Senate Finance Committee. Finally, we have an administration that is listening to us! President Obama announced today a series of measures to shut down offshore tax havens and end other provisions that have helped thousands escape paying taxes. ADA continues to push for stronger regulations, better laws and the closing of loopholes. It's time for the tax dodgers to pay up! Tell Congress to Vote Yes on Credit Cardholders Bill of Rights -
Update: Victory! In an overwhelming vote, the House put consumers first and passed reforms in the credit card industry. Congratulations to all who lobbied with ADA!
Pass Hate Crime Legislation Today -
Current law provides that a hate crime occurs when the victim is singled out because of race, color, religion, national origin and gender. The current bill, HR. 1913 Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009 (LLEHCPA), would expand that law to cover crimes committed based on a victim’s sexual orientation, gender identity or physical or mental disability. ADAction: Contact your Representative (202) 225-3121 and urge him/her to vote for HR 1913. Specter on Workers' Rights - Long-time Republican Senator Arlen Specter announced today his decision to switch to the Democratic Party. While we look forward to the end of Republican obstructionism, Senator Specter’s decision will do no good if he does not also modify his position on several key issues. For example, Specter co-sponsored the Employee Free Choice Act in 2005 but switched positions on the bill in late March. He even went as far as to say that he’ll actively work to block the bill from coming to vote. Call Arlen Specter today (202-224-4254) and tell him not to abandon his commitment to working families! Want to take further action? Lobby your own Senators and Representative and ask them to stand up for workers’ rights by supporting Employee Free Choice Act! Gingrich Still Selling Out Working People - Newt Gingrich once peddled a “Contract with America” but he now wants to keep hard working Americans from getting meaningful contracts with their employers. Despite the fact that Gingrich's political ideas have been soundly repudiated by American voters, he continues to peddle the same tired anti-worker rhetoric and insists on packaging it in a web of error and misconception. ADA Challenges Obama to Prosecute Torturers - Amy Isaacs, National Director of Americans for Democratic Action, issued the following statement today: “President Obama’s recent announcement that government agents and doctors who participated in the torture of individuals in their custody would not face justice has raised serious questions about our commitment to international law. Title IX Misrepresented in Washington Post Op-ed - In yesterday’s Washington Post op-ed “A Threat in Title IX,” Christina Hoff Sommers misrepresented the role Title IX can play in fostering equal educational opportunity for women in the largest and richest sector of higher education -- science, technology, engineering and mathematics. She also misrepresented the history of Title IX – its goals, impacts, and struggles. Over 180 Walmart Workers Gain Union Rights in Canada - Yesterday approximately 180 Walmart workers in St-Hyacinthe, Québec gained a UFCW Canada union contract. This triumph has made them the first main store group of Walmart employees in the province to gain the protections of a union contract. The new contract includes seniority rights, wage increases, a non-discriminatory wage ladder and legally binding grievance procedures. These benefits will help to provide the workers with a more fair and stable workplace. Not surprisingly, Walmart put up a fight against the union contracts... Health Care Coalition Launches PSA - Senators Lend a Helping Hand - to Ultra-Rich? - It is outrageous that now, of all times, some in the Senate are seeking to protect the inheritances of millionaires and billionaires. You read that right. At a time when millions are out of work, without health care, dependent on food stamps to keep from starving, and facing foreclosure, some in the Senate thought protecting the estates of the richest among us should be made a priority. It’s a bailout for Paris Hilton! ADA Highlights Real Unemployment - The real unemployment rate for March released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 15.6%, over 7 points higher than the rate officially reported. ADA National Director, Amy Isaacs, said” “With no help from the Republican Party of No – the very people who created this mess and are now shirking their responsibility to fix it - Democrats passed President Obama’s transformational budget last night. If Republicans are not willing to correct their mistakes, they should at least step aside while President Obama works to turn the page on the failed policies of the past.” Turn the Page on the Past - Pass the Budget - Update: Victory! In ain a party-line vote Thursday night, the Senate followed the House in passing Obama's proposed budget. This is an important step toward rebuilding our struggling economy-- special thanks to all the ADA members that helped with the grassroots lobbying efforts! President Obama’s Fiscal Year 2010 budget provides a visionary blueprint that turns away from the failed economic policies of the past and seeks to invest in our future by expanding opportunities for all. His budget commits major investments in health care reform, education, and clean energy, while restoring fairness to our tax system and reducing military expenditures over time in a responsible manner. It builds upon the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to protect Americans from the damaging impact of the recession and sows seeds of a sustainable prosperity. Click here to take action. Bailed Out Bank Spending Money to Defeat EFCA - Should businesses that received taxpayer funded bailouts be made to return it if it is discovered they are paying union busters to defeat the Employee Free Choice Act? Tell us what you think. This week ADA learned Citigroup - the megabank with megadebt - organized a strategy session with the deep pocketed opponents of the Employee Free Choice Act. EFCA would make it easier for working people to join a union and negotiate for better wages, better benefits and a safer workplace, but apparently Citigroup thinks they can spend your tax dollars defeating the legislation. ADA Urges Congress to Get Tough on Tax Cheats - Americans for Democratic Action welcomes the news that Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) is drafting legislation to fight offshore tax evasion. ADA Counsel and noted expert on offshore tax evasion Jack Blum said: “The practice of offshore tax evasion costs the Treasury $100 billion each year and is an affront to honest Americans. Tax cheats are burning a hole in the budget that hardworking Americans are forced to fill. We are pleased to see Senator Baucus addressing this issue and urge him to strengthen his legislation with provisions like those in the Stop Tax Haven Abuse Act.” Real Unemployment Rate Jumps to 14.8% - The real unemployment rate released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 14.8%, nearly 7 points higher than the rate officially reported. ADA National Director, Amy Isaacs, said, “President Obama is offering a bold plan to rebuild and renew the American economy. He campaigned on these ideas and voters elected him to put them into action. It’s time for Congress to listen.” ADA National Director Announces Retirement - After 20 extraordinary years of leadership, Amy Isaacs, National Director of ADA, has announced plans to retire in June. The announcement came on Saturday at a meeting of the National Board. During her tenure, ADA has raised more money than ever before, expanded membership benefits, achieved countless legislative successes, and continued our role as a leading force in the liberal community. Amy's years of dedication will be honored at the annual banquet in Washington, DC on June 5th. More details to come. ADA Vice President testifies before the House Financial Service Committee - ADA Vice President, James K. Galbraith, testified today before the House Financial Service Committee on the conduct of monetary policy. To read his testimony, click here. ADA Counsel on Nightline -
ADA Praises Passage of Economic Recovery Bill - Americans for Democratic Action praised passage of President Obama’s job creation and economic recovery plan. Amy Isaacs: "Sensible heads prevailed and we are now moving forward to address this historic crisis.” National Call-in Day for HR 676 -
Our national health care system is broken. Now is our chance to fix it. Call your lawmakers at 202-224-3121 and the White House at 202-456-1414. You can also send an email by clicking here. Senate Passes Job Creation Bill - The Senate today passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - President Obama's plan to create or save 3 to 4 million jobs by investing in energy, transportation, schools, and state aid. The bill now goes to conference to iron out differences between the House and Senate versions. ADA Applauds Passage of SCHIP - Americans for Democratic Action applauds Congress for passing the State Children’s Health Insurance Program by a large margin and with strong bipartisan support. After two cruel vetoes last year by former President Bush, President Obama signed the bill into law today. E.J. Dionne Discusses ADA Voting Record with Rachel Maddow - Washington Post columnist E.J. Dionne discussed President Obama's appointment of Senator Judd Gregg (D-NH) as Commerce Secretary with Rachel Maddow on MSNBC last night. Click the link to watch. Urgent Action Needed - Call your Senators -
ADA National Director Urges Congress to Pass Economic Recovery Bill - Like many of you on Tuesday, I couldn’t take my eyes off of the television screen until the helicopter taking President Bush out of Washington had lifted off. It was the welcome end of an era of irresponsible politics and dangerous adventurism that damaged our country immeasurably. ADA Calls on Senate to Confirm Nominees - The Senate Judiciary Committee will likely vote this week on Eric Holder’s nomination to become U.S. Attorney General – our nation’s highest law enforcement officer. Holder has earned a reputation as a fair-minded, tough and aggressive foe of political corruption. As U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia and as Deputy Attorney General, Holder demonstrated his commitment to protecting the civil rights of all Americans. Holder’s record of impartiality and independence will restore credibility to the Justice Department by ensuring that the rights of people are paramount to partisanship. ADA Releases 2008 Congressional Ratings - Americans for Democratic Action released the 2008 Congressional Voting Record today, covering the second session of the 110th Congress. Since ADA's founding in 1947, ADA's Voting Records have served as the standard guideline measuring a legislator's political liberalism. The overall liberal quotient (LQ) for both chambers was 56%, tying last year’s record score. House Democrats achieved an admirable 89% dropping slightly from their 2007 score of 92%. Senate Democrats increased their score to 90% from their 2007 score of 87%. Real Unemployment Reaches 13.5% - The real unemployment rate released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 13.5%, nearly double the official 7.2% rate reported. ADA National Director, Amy Isaacs, said, “Enough is enough. Congress must act swiftly to address this crisis. Anything less betrays the trust of American voters. An economic recovery plan that will create jobs should be on President Obama’s desk on January 20th” ADA Counsel Jack Blum interviewed by ANP - ADA Counsel Jack Blum was interviewed by the American News Project about tax havens-- the hidden hand in the financial crisis.
Call Your Lawmakers Today - Members of Congress need to hear from you! Tell Congressional leaders to include single payer healthcare, HR 676, in their plans for 2009. They think you're not paying attention to healthcare. Isaacs Expresses "Disappointment" with Inaugural Lineup - "Are we thrilled to see the end of the Bush era? Are we delighted with the election of Barack Obama? Unequivocally, yes!!! "That does not, however, mean we must turn a blind eye when we have disagreements. To do less would be to condone something we find abhorrent." ADA President Interviewed on Public Radio - With the current financial meltdown exposing mass corruption on Wall Street and in financial institutions nationwide, ADA President Professor Richard Parker, a Harvard economist, speaks to Public Radio's Tess Vigeland on Marketplace. Listen to the interview here or read the transcript. Inauguration Celebration -
Just confirmed! Register Now! ADA Vice President Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) Progressive Caucus Co-chair ADA Vice President Representative Lynn Woolsey (D-CA) Do not miss your chance to come to Washington, DC and be part of history. Join ADA, Reps. Woolsey and Schakowsky and economist James K. Galbraith for an Inauguration Celebration on January 20th! After the breakfast ADAers from across the nation will head to the National Mall to witness the historic inauguration of Barack Obama! Don't miss out! Register here. ADA National Director's Latest Outrage - Just over a month ago, voters went to the polls and delivered a resounding message that the era of bashing working families had come to an end. They stated unequivocally that the failed policies of the Bush Administration and their Congressional allies were history. Yet, the tin ears in the Senate apparently failed to hear that message. Last night, Senators – many of whom we are delighted to say – won’t be back in January, failed to help our nation’s crippled auto industry. They are willing to help the Wall Street brokers and bankers but for ordinary, hard-working Americans, the only thing they can say is “Sacrifice your future. We don’t care.” ADA Vice President Outlines Liberal Economic Recovery Plan -
Read the whole article at Mother Jones here. Unemployment Catastrophe - ADA Calls for Action -
Further, ADA calculates the "real rate" of unemployment at 12.5%. ADA National Director Blasts Criticism of Auto Workers -
Obama Agrees with ADA's Call for UI Extension - In response to President-elect Obama’s press conference regarding today’s report that the economy has lost another 240,000 jobs and that there are now more than 10 million unemployed Americans, ADA National Director Amy Isaacs said: First Friday Report: "Crisis time for working people" - The employment situation is grim. Employment fell by 240,000 in October, and the officially measured unemployment rate rose to 6.5 percent, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. When October job loss is combined with the 127,000 jobs lost in August and 284,000 jobs lost in September, 661,000 people joined the ranks of the unemployed in the last three months alone. The New York Times reports this is the highest decline in fourteen years. Victory! -
Elect Barack Obama and Send more Liberals to Congress -
Have you done everything you can? -
ADA Vice President Blasts Treasury for Bailout Corruption -
ADA VP, James K. Galbraith, on PBS with Bill Moyers -
ADA National Director Interviewed by the L.A. Times - ADA National Director, Amy Isaacs, spoke to the Los Angeles Times about ADA's endorsement of Senator Barack Obama. Reporting from Washington -- Heading into the home stretch of the presidential campaign, John McCain has been sharpening his closing argument against his Democratic opponent, saying that Barack Obama's tax policies would produce a redistribution of wealth that borders on socialism. Read the full story here. How would you spend Sarah Palin's $150,000 clothing allowance? -
How would you spend Sarah Palin's $150,000 clothing allowance? The comments section is now closed. Thanks to everyone who left thoughtful, funny and snarky comments! ADA PAC Awards $59,000 - ADA's Political Action Committee has awarded more than $59,000 this election cycle. The most recent round of contributions to candidates were sent this week. Carol Casey, chair of ADA PAC, said, "We are counting on celebrating the election of President Obama. We fear, however, that that celebration will be short-lived if his initiatives are rebuffed at every turn by an entrenched Right Wing Congressional minority determined to continue the failed policies of Bush-Cheney-McCain." ADA Releases September Misery Index - ADA released the latest edition of the Misery Index today. Amy Isaacs, ADA National Director, stated: "The latest news from communities around the country is not good. Unemployment is rising, more people are losing their homes, health care has become unaffordable for many, and jobs are disappearing. The verdict is in on the Bush economy and it's time to move the country in a new direction." ADA releases the Misery Index, a compilation of data on unemployment, wages, and other factors affecting working people, each month. The View on Main Street - With many in Congress totally focused on Wall Street, lets look at the view on Main Street:
What now? -
What do you think Congress should do? Voice your opinion in the comments by clicking here. Bail Out Fails - The House has just failed to pass a compromise bill that would have given financial institutions $700 billion in government assistance but also included stong measures supported by ADA to protect taxpayers. It is unclear what Congress will do next but ADA is moving forward rapidly with further legislative proposals that will address the economic needs of working people. ADA Vice President James Galbraith -
You can help ADA change the plan by clicking here to contact your Senators and Representative. Bush's 'Cash for Trash' Plan - Congress will finalize this week the largest government intervention in financial markets since the Great Depression. The Bush Administration is asking for $700 billion to bail out Wall Street by buying up the mountains of bad debt they accumulated during the housing bubble. New Issue of ADA Today Released -
ADA Calls on Congress to Address Economic Woes - Congress has returned and ADA's Legislative Department is in full swing calling for a new and expanded economic stimulus package that will benefit the low and middle income families struggling in the Bush economy. John McCain says the economy is just fine, but we know, and millions of Americans who can't make ends meet know, this is not a mental recession. ADA Releases Policy Reports in Advance of Denver Convention - In mailings going to Democratic convention delegates and alternates, ADA, today, released two reports focusing on issues of concern to working Americans – tax policy and the right of workers to organize free of employer intimidation. Both are of critical concern to voters and, we believe, winning issues for the Democratic Party and its candidates. ADA Submits Testimony for Party Platform; Fights for Working People -
You can read ADA's testimony, which argued strenuously for policies that will benefit working people, by clicking below. Unemployment at 10.3%; ADA Calls for Stimulus - The largest number of workers filing for unemployment claims in more than six years, reported today, gave further evidence that the economy is still in a recessionary mode. Amy Isaacs, ADA National Director, urged further economic stimulus to offset the steady loss of jobs as companies continue to lay off workers. ADA President Speaks to the NY Times - ADA's President, Richard Parker, was interviewed by the New York Times for an article on the U.S. economy. As the economy continues to struggle, the Times interviewed 8 economists to better understand what caused the current downturn and asked if things could get worse. "This is a democracy, but we need to pick between a market-led democracy and democracy-led markets,” Parker told the Times. Support Fair Pay - The House is expected to vote this week on the Paycheck Fairness Act (H.R. 1338). We have a critical opportunity to urge Congress to make real progress on pay equity.The Paycheck Fairness Act would update and strengthen the Equal Pay Act of 1963, closing loop holes and improving the law's effectiveness. Itwould deter wage discrimination by strengthening penalties for equal pay violations and prohibiting retaliation against workers who inquire about employers' wage practices or disclose their own wages. UPDATE: Success! The House passed the Paycheck Fairness Act on July 31st. ADA Takes on HHS Regulations - ADA has joined a coalition opposing the Department of Health and Human Services’ draft regulations that could significantly limit women’s access to basic reproductive health services, including some of the most common forms of birth control. If implemented, these regulations may preempt state laws that protect women’s access to health care and undermine the nation’s fragile network of safety net providers that serve low income women. We are strongly urging the Department to immediately abandon its effort to bring about these ill-conceived and harmful policy changes. McCain: Social Security an "absolute disgrace" - Earlier this week Republican Presidential candidate, John McCain (R-AZ), pledged to balance the Federal budget. His plan? Cut entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare. Today, at a town hall meeting in Watch the video after the jump. ADA Endorses Senator Barack Obama for President - On Saturday, June 14th, Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) received a unanimous endorsement by delegates to Senator Obama has a broad range of experience and an established record of fearlessly taking on difficult and complicated tasks. He has done so forthrightly and even-handedly, building broad coalitions of support, and accomplishing goals which unite us all. ADA Elects New President - Delegates to “We are delighted to have Professor Parker at the helm,” said ADA National Director Amy Isaacs. “His appreciation for the history of Updated: Send Senator Kennedy Best Wishes - Please leave your thoughts in the comments and ADA ADA Praises Senators Voting to End the War - Americans for Democratic Action thanked the 26 Senators who voted to end the war in “The 26 Senators who voted against continuing the war in Republicans Refusing Veterans the Benefits They Earned - Senate Republicans have indicated they will fight to remove policy provisions dealing with veteran’s education, health, a 13-week extension of unemployment benefits, a 'patriot's tax' on millionaires that would pay for a new GI Bill, and other domestic spending. The bill also includes a provision preventing the administration from implementing seven regulations that would shift some Medicaid costs from the federal government to the states. Republicans are determined to remove these policy provisions from the bill. Republicans only want war funding in the bill. Four More Years of Bush? No Thanks. - In an outrageous statement today presumptive Republican presidential nominee Senator John McCain (R-AZ) said the “Someone should remind John McCain his first term isn’t going to last 100 years,” said ADA National Director Amy Isaacs. “Because that’s how long he once said he’d be happy to have our troops fight.” Unemployment Misrepresented - Again - The Bureau of Labor Statistics released data on the current rate of unemployment that once again missed the mark. The real rate of unemployment buried within the report is 9.2% - an increase from last month. BLS is reporting that unemployment declined to 5.0% in April, based on an increase in government jobs and service sector employment. The reported number does not include those who have been unable to find work for so long they have simply given up, those that cannot work because of inadequate transportation or illness or those that are willing to work but due to economic conditions, can only find part-time employment. When is it going to end? - Five years ago, President George W. Bush landed in a fighter jet on the deck of the USS Abraham Lincoln and announced “mission accomplished” in Five years later, we know different. More than 95% of the ADA Responds to McCain Health Care Non-plan - “John McCain spoke of letting American families make the decision when it comes to health care. What he did not say was that under his plan the decision is between having health care and not having health care. “He is offering us Bush 2.0 by continuing to give billions of tax dollars to corporate providers and drug manufacturers that have raised their premiums to unaffordable levels for most Americans. He says these companies need to do a better job of holding down costs yet offers no ideas – I’m willing to bet they’ll hold down costs just as well as the oil companies. When unemployment is rising, so should unemployment benefits. - On April 16, the House Ways and Means Committee approved ADA President Rep. Jim McDermott's (D-WA) bill to expand unemployment benefits. ADA Successfully Lobbies to Block Medicaid Cuts - ADA members' efforts help to block Bush Medicare cut. |
|
Last week, we celebrated a legendary leader who challenged our nation to dream. The ADA Education Fund will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy at our upcoming “What Would Martin Do?” annual forum in Washington, D.C.
The votes have been counted and we have our three winners from the "What Would Martin Do?" essay contest! 
The ADA Education Fund and Working Families Win are joining together to host a political roundtable featuring key Democratic leaders who will offer the progressive viewpoint on the important issues facing working families and the role those issues will play in the 2012 elections.
Americans for Democratic Action Education Fund is preparing to host the 3rd annual “What Would Martin Do?” panel discussion. In coordination with the event, the ADA Education Fund is hosting a national essay contest.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the latest employment data this morning, reporting 85,000 new jobs added to the economy last month. While this helps to edge the official unemployment rate down one-tenth of a percentage point, we all know that as long as our nation has 25 million workers in need of full-time employment, the unemployment crisis is far from over.
.jpg)
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) announced today the latest unemployment rate of 9.1%, as employment edged up by 103,000 in September.
As we watch history being made in Libya, we encourage you to join us for a free screening of the 30-minute segment, “Freedom in Our Lifetime”, the story of the successful boycott movement in Apartheid-era South Africa, hosted by the ADA Education Fund..png)
.png)
Today, ADA National Director Michael J. Wilson made this statement about the announcement of ADA President, Rep. Lynn Woolsey's retirement from the U.S. House of Representatives:
The results from the Pentagon-ordered study on the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell are in. The study makes clear that there is no justification for this policy to remain on the books and I hope you will join us in doing your part to force action in the U.S. Senate on this crucial bill in the lame duck session.
On November 18, people in more than 50 cities across the country will take a variety of steps to combat a silent crime plaguing Americans. Workers, organizers, public officials and religious leaders in communities from coast to coast will stand together as part of IWJ's National Day of Action Against Wage Theft.
The 151,000 jobs added to the economy in October represent a glimmer of hope to thousands of American families suffering through the two-year Great Recession. But with the official unemployment rate unchanged at 9.6% and the unofficial rate (which includes part-time workers desiring full-time employment and discouraged job seekers) rising to 17.1%, today's improved jobless numbers are far from heralding the end of the employment crisis.
The 2010 election will go down in history as a backwards step on the path of American progress. After the triumphs of 2008 and 2006, our nation was moving to address the economic and foreign affairs disasters of the first decade of this century, which left millions without jobs and without hope.
The unemployment report was released today. The biggest news? Manufacturing jobs down by 27,000. Our future prosperity as a nation rests on the restoration of our manufacturing industry.
While the news continues to frame these turbulent economic times as a "he-cession," the struggles of women and families are often left unheard.
ADA activists are outraged at the Senate for once again blocking the extension of unemployment benefits to millions of unemployed Americans. Every single Republican Senator, joined by one Democrat, Ben Nelson (D- NE), voted against extending benefits - even with the unemployment rate as high as 9.7 percent.
Even as sea turtles and other fragile wildlife fight a failing battle against the Deep Horizon oil spill and fishing and tourism industries of the Gulf coast face an uncertain future, the U.S. Senate may actually pass legislation that would expand offshore oil drilling as part of its climate change bill!
ADA in partnership with its local affiliate, Greater Washington ADA (GWADA), will host a fundraising reception on July 15th to honor the members of the Washington-area Congressional delegation who demonstrated their progressive ideals and passion with high scores on ADA’s latest annual scorecard of roll-call votes.
Today’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report lists the officially measured unemployment rate as 9.7% for March 2010, painting a static employment picture. Despite some optimistic signs of economic recovery, the Great Recession marches on. There are more than 15 million (up from 7.5 million in December 2007) unemployed Americans; a total of 8.4 million jobs have been lost during the recession, 36,000 in February alone; and there are 6.1 jobseekers for every job opening. Our economy will need to generate 11.1 million jobs to return to the pre-recession employment levels.
Join us and our distinguished guests for the National ADA Roosevelt Day Dinner.
The following Congressional Democrats voted against health care reform in the roll calls that successfully concluded the long struggle to improve Americans’ access to affordable medical care. (All Republicans voted against health care reform.)
This week, as the Senate takes up financial reform legislation, we ask our supporters to participate in the National Senate Call-in Week! We are asking our Senators to end the abuses that led to the financial crisis and specifically to... read more.
The real unemployment rate released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 16.7% -- a full 7 points higher than the officially reported rate. The official rate (9.7%) only accounts for those who are not working and are actively seeking full-time employment.
Last week, in an egregious decision, the Supreme Court ruled 5 - 4 that the government has no right to regulate the campaign contributions of corporations and unions. In short, the decision by the court has opened the floodgate, for corporate cash. 
The Chamber of Commerce and other business lobby groups have spent millions to kill meaningful health care reform. Tomorrow, ADA will rally along side our coalition partners to encourage Congress to stand up to corporate lobbyists.
Since its inception in 1947, educational equality has been one of ADA Education Fund's major goals. Today, America's economic future requires the nation to combat educational inequality.
ADA Members marched for LGBT equality at the National Equality March in Washington, DC.
Today, Representative Jerry Nadler (D-NY), took the first step forward by introducing legislation that would repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). We applaud Congress for taking this first step to end this discriminatory legislation.
Americans for Democratic Action National Director Michael J. Wilson and ADA President Richard Parker said the following of Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA):
Netroots Nations kicked off with ADA’s own Michael J. Wilson speaking at the opening panel: “From Prop 8 to Full Equality in All 50 States: Fighting for Marriage Equality & LGBT Rights Across America.”
“The real unemployment rate released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 16.3%, nearly 7 points higher than the officially reported rate. 
UPDATE: On Friday, June 26th the House took a historic step and passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. This is the most important enviromental legislation in U.S. history and we applaud the House members that voted for our future. Next stop, the Senate. 
We always suspected it but now we have the proof. Vice President Dick Cheney clearly was the brains behind most, if not all, of the outrages that the Bush Administration foisted on our nation and the world. President Bush has not been heard and only rarely seen since he left office. But, Cheney has become an ardent spokesperson for violating international law and common sense. Worse, he seems to be gaining some traction just as our country is beginning to gain some credibility in the world again. It's time to fight back and remind Mr. Cheney that we are a nation of laws, that we must respect those laws if we are to have any respect any where in the world.
UPDATE: Victory! The House passed the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act last night.
ADA and our 
ADA Vice President, Professor James K. Galbraith, who will headline ADA's 
When did having a good paying job become a crime? With the Big 3 U.S. automakers seeking a taxpayer funded bail out, there have been a shocking number of attacks on working people simply for having the good sense to join a union and collectively bargain for better wages, good benefits and a dignified retirement.
From ADA National Director Amy Isaacs: All right, we admit we've started the day with a grin on our faces. Last night's sweeping Obama victory is something we will cherish for years to come and you helped make the dream a reality.
Today is Election Day. Vote
In a letter sent Tuesday, ADA Vice President Leo Gerard, President of the United Steelworkers, blasted Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson for blatant cronyism in the distribution of the $700 billion Wall Street bailout deal.
Last night’s news that the Republican National Committee had spent $150,000 to clothe Sarah Palin for three months left us scratching our heads. Clearly, the lady doesn’t shop the outlets. This is the Party of Joe the Plumber? And, they justify it by saying the clothes will be donated to charity?
Now that Congress has turned down the proposed Wall Street bail out plan, many are wondering what now. 
ADA released the Fall 2008 issue of ADA Today, the organization's premier quarterly newsletter. This important issue contains the ADA endorsement of Senator Barack Obama (pictured with ADA National Director Amy Isaacs), an interview with newly elected ADA President, Professor Richard Parker, an update from Working Families Win and ADA's additional election efforts, a wrap up of the 2008 ADA Convention, and more. The issue will begin arriving in members' mail boxes soon but you can
Continuing a tradition of more than 40 years, ADA was invited to submit testimony, in advance of the Democratic National Convention, to the Democratic Party Platform Committee.