On the recordJune 1, 2015
Thank you, Congressman Payne. Mr. Speaker, I, too, want to thank my colleagues for giving the Congressional Black Caucus and this Congress the opportunity to put the important economic concerns of this Nation's in the spotlight this evening. Millions of Americans are living on the brink. These aren't merely concerns for these individuals and their families; they are national concerns. I have always believed that what makes our Nation great is our recognition that everyone should have the ability to live and rise to their full potential. Economic parity is one of the most fundamental issues facing us as a nation right now. I hope, in this hour, we have appropriately shed some light on some of the concerns of the Congressional Black Caucus when it comes to the economy and to job opportunities in our communities--or the lack of them. Again, I want to thank my coanchor, the Honorable Donald Payne, Jr., who himself is a strong defender of the economic possibilities of Newark, of Orange, and of communities across New Jersey's 10th Congressional District. I will close as I began this evening in saying that the time to act is now. The necessity in responding to the economic crises of Black employment and underemployment should be an American imperative. The time is now to support a bold and inclusive economy that propels us into a sustainable future. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.





