Blog
August 19, 2018
Capital District Chapter Hosts 83rd Birthday Celebration of Social Security Featuring a discussion of the program by Congressman Tonko
NYSARA Executive Director Stephen Madarasz, Capital Region Chapter President Karen Wojcik-Hess, Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY20 CD), Linda Mertz of the University at Albany School of Public Welfare, and NYSARA activist Pat Lavin.
Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY 20th CD) joined the Capital Region chapter for a frank conversation about the importance of standing up for Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid in light of the continuing assault on social safety net programs.
The program coincided with the 83rd anniversary of Social Security being signed into law by Franklin D. Roosevelt. Social Security has provided generations of Americans with a baseline of retirement security and economic stability.
Tonko urged activists to be aware and involved in countering questionable federal initiatives based on misleading information and unsubstantiated claims. Use facts and evidence to push back. Tonko also stressed the importance of bipartisan dialogue and discussed several measures he has pursued by engaging in discussion about substantive issues and trying to work for the best interests of his constituents and the country.
The program was presented at the University at Albany’s School of Public Welfare which helped host the gathering.
NYSARA is encouraging and organizing members and activists to get involved in ensuring that New Yorkers vote in this fall’s Congressional elections. Programs like this one, featuring Rep. Tonko, are intended to educate and activate members.