Duckworth Diary: 08/14/2015

Statement

Dear Neighbors,

The August District Work Period is in full swing! This year, my District Office is working with Federal and State agencies as well as private organizations to host a Grants Workshops Series. Over the past two weeks, we've hosted successful workshops for nonprofits and local government organizations on capacity building, hunger and food security, arts and humanities and education. If you're interested in learning about additional grants opportunities or wish to RSVP for an upcoming workshop regarding Infrastructure, click here.

Last week we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act (VRA). This important milestone was a powerful reminder that our work is not finished when it comes to safeguarding the right to vote. As the Justice Roberts-led Supreme Court demonstrated in 2013, if we are not vigilant in defending American voting rights, future decision makers can threaten their existence. The freedom to vote is the foundation that makes our country great. I am committed to preserving and restoring voting rights for all Americans.

As a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, it is my priority to promote and strengthen America's strategic partnerships. That is why during the first week of August, I joined a Congressional Delegation to conduct a fact-finding trip to Israel and the West Bank. It was a busy, productive trip, which gave our delegation an opportunity to meet with key Israeli and Palestinian leaders, to see first-hand and better understand the key challenges and opportunities facing the region and one of our most important allies.

On Friday I met with the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois Tollway to discuss the current status of infrastructure projects throughout the 8th District. I received an update on the Elgin O'Hare Western Access Project, which began in October of 2013 and is expected to create 65,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2040.

This week we celebrate the 80th anniversary of Social Security. Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid make a real difference in the lives of working Americans. One of my top priorities is to protect these vital programs. Since the creation of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, millions of Americans have relied on these crucial earned benefits programs to retire with dignity and remain in good health. Millions more who pay into the system are counting on these programs to one day provide them with quality health care and income in their retirement. This historic commitment and pledge from our country remains one of our greatest achievements.

I hope you are having a great week.

Sincerely,

Congresswoman Duckworth

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