1. Build Back Better

The House passage of President Biden’s Build Back Better investment agenda is a historic cause for thanks. (Read our statement about it here.) Many millions will benefit for years to come, with better jobs, care, education, housing, and protection from disaster.  So celebrate – and then get back to work getting it through the Senate!

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2. The Expanded Child Tax Credit

Congress must act to keep it going beyond this year – but the Child Tax Credit expansion included in the American Rescue Plan passed by Congress in March has lifted millions of children out of poverty and helped millions of Americans put food on the table.

3. Tenacity

Advocates for paid family and medical leave, including the National Partnership for Women and Families, saw their long-sought initiative dropped from the Build Back Better package.  They fought back, tenaciously and effectively.  It’s back in the House bill.  They’re not the only tenacious ones (see item 4 below).  There may be more ups and downs, but we are so grateful for their unflagging work – the future lies with them.

4. Immigrant Advocates

Too many groups to mention individually, but they are brave, tireless, well-informed, effective, and generous.  It is a privilege to learn from them and to support their efforts to build a more just, more creative, and more prosperous America.

5. Care Workers

Whether caring for children, the aging, or people with disabilities or illness, millions work at low pay, often with no benefits. Home care workers often cannot get enough hours to earn an adequate wage. Their work is essential, and they offer it with skill and a generous spirit.  We’re grateful for them, and for the extra pay they will start getting when Build Back Better is signed into law.