The Second Bill of Rights
At its best, America once recognized the need to provide our people with the basic essentials they need to survive and thrive. We've lost sight of that today.
80 years ago, president FDR introduced the Second Bill of Rights.
It stated that every American has the right to:
Our country once recognized that "true individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence"
and that these rights were critical to ensure "the goals of human happiness and well-being." America's first Bill of Rights was designed to protect our political rights. The second Bill of Rights was designed to protect our basic human rights.
Unfortunately, America fails to honor these rights today.
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A living wage
Today's minimum wage, and even a $15 minimum wage, does not keep up with the cost of living anywhere in America.
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A decent home
Home prices have risen much faster than incomes, making a decent home less attainable. 30% of tenants are 'rent-burdened,' while homelessness persists across major cities.
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Medical care
Nearly 1-in-10 Americans do not have medical coverage, while 1-in-4 can't afford to access needed medical care.
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Economic protections in times of illness
America is the only developed nation not to guarantee federal paid family leave or sick leave, which is critical to maintain a healthy and whole workforce.
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A good education
Georgetown reports that "public universities have become less affordable and accessible," while student loan debt is now the second-highest debt category in the US.
We have the power to defend these rights today, by...
Raising the minimum wage
Supporting unions in order to protect workers' rights to organize for better wages and conditions
Outlawing corporate price-gouging
Fighting wage suppression and "profit over people" culture
Developing more affordable housing
Enacting a universal public education program
Financing federal housing affordability programs
Enacting universal (single-payer) healthcare
Expanding mental healthcare
Regulating drug prices
Guarantee federal paid family leave
Guarantee federal paid sick leave