Debbie's Blog
Dingell Update: June 19, 2020
Washington,
June 19, 2020
Here is an update for June 19th – Juneteenth.
Thought of the day: “Struggle is a never ending process. Freedom is never really won, you earn it and win it in every generation.” - Coretta Scott King Today is Juneteenth, a day to take time to study history, listen, see others perspectives and understand the challenges this country still faces in in freedom, liberty and justice for all. We need to remember the work of those that have gone before us – those who have fought, sacrificed and given their life for freedom – and recognize the critical need to continue their work as we are at a crossroads in this country. Today, I will join many in our community in recognizing Juneteenth and practicing our right to peacefully assemble. My hope for today is everyone exercises safety by wearing a mask, keeping distance, and washing hand or using hand sanitizer frequently – and everyone recognizes each other’s rights. Yesterday’s Supreme Court decision on DACA gives certainty and relief for the hundreds of thousands of Dreamers – who came to our country as children and only know one home. These young people are Americans who contribute so many essential functions, pay taxes, serve in the military and are classmates, coworkers, neighbors and friends. They live each day with fear and uncertainty that without DACA protections they could be shipped away to a home they’ve never known. But our work is not over. Our country’s immigration system is broken. We must commit to work in a bipartisan manner on comprehensive immigration reform that secures our borders, respects families, provides permanent protections for Dreamers and refugees under the TPS program, helps employers, and provides a pathway to citizenship for immigrants living and contributing to our country. Wayne County plans to offer $50 million in grants to small businesses. This money comes from the CARES Act passed by Congress, and is being administered by the county. At least 5,000 small businesses in Wayne County could receive grants up to $10,000. Applications open June 29, when more information is available on the application process I will share with you. Yesterday, I spoke with the Autism Alliance and their coalition of special education programs. The abrupt shift to schooling at home was tough on everyone, but presented new challenges for students with special education needs. Every student needs attention and equity in receiving a quality education. 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. Click here to be removed from this list. |
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