Hundreds Gather to Share Concerns about Economy, Services and Jobs
On Saturday, April 11, more than 260 people showed up in Gresham for the Keep Oregon Working Community Forum to hear about the state’s budget crisis, what it means for real Oregonians, and how we can get through this recession.
State Senator Laurie Monnes Anderson and Representatives Greg Matthews and Nick Kahl spoke about the tough decisions that are facing lawmakers, and about their commitment to protect the vulnerable and invest in the future.
Five other members of the community spoke about how their lives are impacted by state services, like childcare, public safety, education, child welfare, and care for seniors and people with disabilities.
Audience members signed postcards to their legislators in support of:
• Protecting services to vulnerable Oregonians
• Preserving and creating jobs
• Preserving education
• Making investments in our future, since deep cuts to education, public safety, and healthcare will only cost more in the long run
• Finding a solution that ensures that profitable corporations and wealthy individuals pay their fair share and stop getting off the hook.
The attendees supported the idea that given the extent of the crisis, elected leaders must look to a balanced approach to address the challenge. But in order to lessen cuts that will cost Oregon now and in the future, they believe it’s time for profitable corporations and wealthy Oregonians to pay their fair share to help protect services and aid in Oregon’s economic recovery.
The event also provided access and information to direct services for Oregonians undergoing tough times, like unemployment, foreclosure counseling, food stamps, prescription drug programs, and more. Forum attendees generously donated more than 400 pounds of food to the Oregon Food Bank.
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