Speak Outs against the "Reverse Robin Hood" Budget

On Wednesday, at 147 Speak Outs held across the country, community members stood up to tell personal stories about how Medicaid, food stamps, and student loans had affected them and their families. This week Congressional Republicans are trying to push through their "reverse Robin Hood" budget plan that would slash billions of dollars from vital services like these, only to pay for more tax breaks for the wealthy. To show the faces behind the numbers, over 2,000 people came out to hear the personal testimonials and urge Congress to oppose this budget.  Nearly 80% of the Speak Outs were attended by local reporters, shining a spotlight on the families the Republican plan would hurt and the strong opposition of the American people.
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What Members Had to Say About the Speak Outs

The best story was hearing from a very young women how she was helped through college and while a single Mom by federal funding (college loans, WIC, and Medicaid). Her speech shows what a difference it makes when we as a country can help those who want to help themselves: they turn around and give it back by speaking up for others!
–M. J., Lindenhurst, IL

One of our volunteer speakers was a middle-class mom who talked about how at one time in her life she depended on food stamps and how important that was to her during a time of personal crisis. She wants to make sure others in need have the same opportunity to get help when needed. Other speakers talked about how student loans had helped them go to college, and how they hope their children will have the opportunity to get a college education in the future.
–Kathy, St. Paul, MN

It was great to hear from those people who would be directly affected by these proposed budget cuts. As they say, "all politics are local." And I think our representatives in government should really remember that and listen to those most affected by their decisions.
–Stacy, Hermitage, TN

The best moment was when our speaker was interviewed with the promise of being on NBC-2 news tonight.
–Pete and Paula, Punta Gorda, FL

It was very cold and windy but I was glad I stood up to be counted. I'm 57 and getting so frustrated with the politicians that I feel like I'm 20 and I am ready to march on Washington (if I could afford the gas).
–Jack, Sterling Heights, MI

The best moment was when the young college student with a student loan spoke to the Spanish newspaper and TV station in Spanish. I hosted the Speak Out because I believe our country is headed in the wrong direction, undoing all the accomplishments of 70 years. I am personally affected because I have a mentally challenged son on Medicaid and Medicare as well.
–Toni, San Antonio, TX

The best moment was when the MC who was so passionate talked about how many people we know personally......and told stories about her own family. We all got a little teary when she talked about the grandmother who is raising 4 grandchildren by herself....needs eye surgery....can't afford it without Medicaid and is at risk of not knowing how she can continue her heroic efforts without the help of Medicaid.
–Deborah, Greeley, CO