Debbie's Blog
Dingell Update: June 14, 2020
Washington,
June 14, 2020
Here is an update for June 14th.
Thought of the day: “When they go low, we go high.” -Michelle Obama Today is Flag Day. On June 14, 1777 the Second Continental Congress adopted the flag of the United States. The flag of the United States represents freedoms and has been an enduring symbol of the country’s ideals since our founding. In these tumultuous times, the flag represents to me all of the fundamental pillars of our democracy, including freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of press, and that we are one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. These remain what the flag stands for though we need to continue the fight for them for all. Protest against racism and police brutality have sparked debates of patriotism regarding kneeling in front of the American flag during the National Anthem on and off the field. The nuns taught me during debate class, when I thought that we should never be allowed to burn the flag, that the ability for one to do so, represented our freedom of speech that many others do not have. I love the flag, and we must never forget what it stands for in pursuit of freedom and justice for all. We are always in that fight, but the flag represents what this country must strive for with equality for all. Spent most of yesterday out with members of the community speaking out against hate, discrimination, and injustice. I saw a lot of good. A young man in Taylor started the walk by reminding everyone that there would be people calling names, saying hateful things – which they do just to get a reaction. As we speak out we need to be respectful and peaceful. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr taught us, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Yesterday, Michigan reported 22 deaths related to COVID-19 and 180 new cases. It’s still very strong here in Southeast Michigan. We all must remain diligent to stop more spread. Wear a mask, keep physical distance, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. We are all in this together. This week, work in the House will focus on building a strong transportation and infrastructure bill. Strong investments in infrastructure not only improve our nation’s roads and bridges, a strong infrastructure bill will create good-paying jobs, strengthens manufacturing, and transition our nation to a clean energy future. I’m talking with all my colleagues and pushing to include my legislation on clean water, electric vehicle and charging infrastructure, a clean energy and sustainable infrastructure fund to mobilize investments, and also working to make sure dam infrastructure is included. I’ll keep you updated as our conversations advance. Team Dingell is here seven days a week and wants to listen and help. It isn’t as smooth as we want on some issues, but we will never stop fighting for you. Call our office at 313-278-2936 or contact us through Facebook or our webpage. New information becomes available every day. Below is a list of resources and information that can be helpful during this time. Please share this information with your family, friends, and colleagues. Remember, stay home, stay safe, save lives. Coronavirus information File for unemployment Small Businesses can apply for low-interest disaster loans Navigating Social Security Benefits School Based Food Service Interactive Map Food Banks and Kitchens in Michigan's 12th Congressional District Contact numbers for people looking for information are: • Centers for Disease Control, cdc.gov/coronavirus, 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636). • Michigan.gov/coronavirus, or 888-535-6136. |
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