Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
07/07/2011
Contact:
Katie Broendel, broendelk@aauw.org
202/785-7761
Lisa Goodnight, goodnightl@aauw.org
202/785-7738
WASHINGTON— Lisa Maatz, the top policy adviser for the American Association of University Women (AAUW), released the following statement about media reports that the White House, along with congressional leaders from both parties, might consider proposing cuts to Social Security benefits today:
Social Security must not be a bargaining chip during deficit-reduction negotiations. Social Security did not cause the federal deficit—in fact, the program is “off budget”—and it should not be looted to address America’s financial problems, especially at the expense of working families who depend on its programs the most. AAUW has long believed in the idea of shared sacrifice and budgets that balance individual rights with responsibilities to the greater community.
Cuts to this vital program would be all pain, no gain for countless Americans, especially for older women, more than half of whom would fall into poverty without Social Security benefits. While these are tough economic times, there is a right way and a wrong way to balance the budget. In the end, it comes down to priorities. The budget must not be balanced on the backs of those who can least afford it. AAUW urges policy makers to stand strong and keep Social Security cuts off the negotiating table.
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The American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. Since 1881, AAUW has been one of the nation’s leading voices promoting education and equity for women and girls. AAUW has a nationwide network of more than 100,000 members and donors, 1,000 branches, and 600 college/university institutional partners. Since AAUW's founding 130 years ago, members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic, and political. AAUW's commitment to educational equity is reflected in its public policy advocacy, community programs, leadership development, conventions and conferences, national partnerships, and international connections.