Today, on Small Business Saturday, we celebrate the contributions of small businesses to our country and our communities – and we encourage everyone to make a visit to a small business as part of their holiday shopping. It is well worth it. For the last eight years, I have had the honor of working with small business owners across the United States and have seen firsthand as they turn their dreams into engines of our economy and essential parts of our communities. 

There’s plenty of reason for celebration today. 

Through hard work and talent, small business owners have grown and created opportunity for Americans from coast to coast, contributing to the more than 15 million private-sector jobs created since early 2010.

Small business owners have helped to lead the way with higher minimum wages and pay -- recognizing that when employees have the support they need to thrive, so do their businesses.

Under President Obama, small businesses have played a greater role than ever before in supporting the work of the federal government. In Fiscal Year 2015, for instance, we awarded an all-time high of more than a quarter of eligible federal contracts to small businesses, and we made great strides in ensuring more government contracts are given to women-owned small businesses -- nearly $18 billion worth.

Perhaps most importantly, small businesses are the backbone of our communities. Small business owners don’t just employ our neighbors; more often than not, they live alongside us, too. They support our Little League teams, our schools, our houses of worship, and our charities. And they provide the essential character of towns and cities across America.

Dreams do not often materialize easily. It takes persistence, determination, and the ability to bounce back quickly from failure. Yet every day, small business owners across the United States defy the odds -- never giving up, trusting their instincts, and following their dreams relentlessly. And we are all better for it.

So today, please join me in supporting a small business in your community -- and saying thank you to all the men and women who have taken the leap of faith to realize their own entrepreneurial dreams.

Today, the White House will host its final National Disability Employment Awareness Month event and celebrate the strides we have made to create a more inclusive federal workforce. Ahead of this event, I'm proud to announce important progress toward that effort.

In 2010, President Obama challenged the federal government to hire 100,000 people with disabilities within five years. Not only did we reach the goal between 2011 and 2015, we surpassed it. Since then, the federal government has hired more than 154,000 permanent and temporary employees with disabilities, and more than 109,000 of whom are permanent hires.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of leadership, managers, and staff in agencies big and small to commit to inclusive recruitment, hiring, and retention practices, there are now more people with disabilities in the federal workforce than at any time in the past 35 years. This shows what government can do when agencies come together to make sure that everyone in our country has a fair shot -- not only to achieve their dreams, but to serve the country we all love.

Everyone benefits when our government reflects the full talents and diversity of the American people, so the fulfillment of the President's goals marks an important step forward.

With that said, it is just one step toward creating a truly inclusive workforce that represents the American people.

We must all continue to work together -- the federal government, and state and local governments, together with the private and not for profit sectors -- to ensure that the only limits to people’s success are the limits they place on themselves -- not an inaccessible job posting, discriminatory hiring practices, or a lack of workplace accommodations. We have a lot more work to do, so I challenge you to take a fresh look at all of your workplace’s practices and procedures and make sure they are inclusive of working families, people with criminal records who have earned second chances, and others who experience barriers to employment.

The kind of progress we want to see starts with us.

Tomorrow, President Obama will welcome our newest addition to the National Mall: the National Museum of African-American History and Culture, a museum dedicated to telling a fuller story of America through the history of African Americans.

As we celebrate the central role that African Americans have played in the life and history of our country, we also celebrate the African Americans whose labor and service helped shape one of the most powerful pillars of our democracy – the People’s House.

Ahead of the dedication ceremony, President Obama will deliver remarks at a White House reception for the museum’s opening. Here’s a look at some of what guests who are attending the reception will see as they walk through the residence and experience the African American history of the White House.

The Slaves and Servants Who Built and Served the White House

The White House was built by slaves. Some of the slaves’ names were Peter, Tom, Ben, and Harry, some were skilled carpenters, and two of them were enslaved to the chief architect of the White House, James Hoban.

The Diplomatic Reception Room was known as the “Servant’s Hall,” where African American slaves and servants lived. One of the most well-known slaves who worked under President James Madison was Paul Jennings, who wrote an early White House memoir and was involved in an 1848 plan to undertake a large-scale escape of slaves from Washington, D.C. aboard the schooner Pearl.

Front Seat to History

For years, the White House has recognized filmmakers and actors who have influenced American history by showcasing notable films in the Family Theater, hosting screenings at the White House, honoring recipients of the Presidential Medals of Freedom and Arts, and organizing other events featuring aspiring youth talent. President Obama has continued that tradition by honoring creative works that have brought about conversations on race and inclusion in America. From screening of Red Tails for retired Tuskegee Airmen, to honoring Sidney Poitier, to hosting panel discussions on shows that address slavery such as Roots and Underground, the White House has highlighted the importance of recognizing America’s past, no matter how dark, and how it has helped to shape our future.

Keeping the Drum Beat Going

Throughout history, the White House has hosted performances from African American artists who, through music, have expressed the full range of the American experience.

Before there was Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles, Thomas Greene Bethune, also known as “Blind Tom,” was a musical prodigy and the first African American artist to have performed at the White House at the young age of 10 for President James Buchanan. Born a slave in 1849, Tom was known to have played the piano like Beethoven and Mozart and could repeat long sheet music after only hearing it once.

The Fisk Jubilee Singers -- a choir from the Fisk School in Nashville, Tennessee that first opened its doors during the Civil War for former slaves -- became the first African American choir to perform at the White House in 1882. One of their songs, “Safe in the Arms of Jesus,” was said to have moved President Chester A. Arthur to tears. The group was awarded the 2008 National Medal of Arts during the Administration of President George W. Bush.

White House Easter Egg Roll

Protect and Serve

African Americans have been an integral part of protecting our safety and that of the President of the United States. Although many who served were not recognized at the time and faced hurdles because of the color of their skin, that didn’t stop them from honorably fulfilling their duties for this nation. From the veterans who risked their lives for comrades, to the first African American members of the Armed Forces who stood alone amongst a regiment of all white soldiers, to the slaves who fought for the promise of equality, to the Secret Service members whose sacrifice often went unrecognized, these heroes believed in a brighter future even when the odds were stacked against them.

A list of African American Medal of Honor recipients is on display in the new Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture.

Historic Meetings

An invitation to the White House has held both symbolic power and a platform to voice the American experience.

Presidential Appointments

The quiet sacrifices White House staff members have made in service of our country often reached beyond the long hours and high demands of their jobs. In face of the challenges they faced, their perseverance to show up every day to work and see their contribution as part of a vision larger than themselves paved the way for change.

“The Butler”

African American butlers and housekeepers have served the White House for decades. Their dedication and resilience behind the scenes inevitably empowered others, as portrayed in Lee Daniels’ film adaptation of the experience of African American butlers in the White House.

"Scripture tells us that in our sufferings there is glory, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."

President Obama, July 12, 2016

I have hope, because in recent days, we have been flooded by requests from Americans asking how they can help and be part of the solution. People want to know what we all can do in our day-to-day lives to take on our challenges and maintain the unity brought by grief. Is there anything more American than that – ordinary citizens from every corner of the country asking what they can do in their community? As the President said yesterday, that’s the America I know – an America that’s never seen a problem it can’t solve. We’re excited to respond, and offer a few ways that we all can get to work building bridges and solving problems.

Earlier today, the President brought together law enforcement officials, civil rights leaders, activists, faith leaders, academics, and state and local elected officials to discuss these challenges and how we can all take steps together to build trust and ensure justice for all Americans.

And on Thursday night, we’ll keep the conversation going about the challenges we face – from racial inequality to how we build trust in our communities. President Obama will host a town hall that will air on ABC, ESPN, and Freeform, and where he’ll hear from officers, parents, students, and families affected by the violence of recent weeks. Participants will raise important questions, search for answers together, and most critically, seek to understand the different realities each of us face. We will all be able to learn a lot from their example.

The conversation and work must continue after the town hall – and there are a number of things that YOU can do to answer the question we’ve heard so often: “How can I help?”  

First, take back to your community a set of common-sense and straightforward steps that you can take, right now, to make a difference. There are some solutions outlined by the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing. These are central to rebuilding trust in communities and are steps that anyone can take. Discuss them with your family, your community, your police department, and local officials. We can honor the courage of our police officers and see the truth of our criminal justice system’s racial inequities – and these solutions are a critical part of that work. 

Second, become a mentor. Talent is ubiquitous, but opportunity is not. A huge part of our shared work is ensuring that every young person in America knows that as a country, we believe in them. They’re our kids – and their futures are our future. Mentoring can be a life-changing experience – for everyone involved – and we hope you’ll take a look. 

Third, keep the town hall’s conversation going in your community to build bonds with new people, seek out new viewpoints, and share your stories and examples. Get out of your own comfort zone, and as the President has said, “Listen. Engage. If the other side has a point, learn from them.” It’s too easy to be drawn back into our own corners, far away from the challenge of someone else’s reality.

But as the President also said yesterday in Dallas, the work of healing these divisions requires that we open our hearts to each other, and “see in each other a common humanity, a shared dignity, and recognize how our different experiences have shaped us.”

We hope you’ll tune in Thursday evening with an open mind, and bring back ideas to your community. This is going to take all of us.

Watch Vice President Biden speak on the assault weapons ban
 

On Friday, June 17, Vice President Joe Biden sent a message to people who, in the wake of the tragic attack in Orlando, signed a We the People petition calling on the government to ban AR-15-type assault weapons from civilian ownership.

"Over the past few years, we've watched as new horrific shootings have replaced previous ones as the deadliest in our nation's history.

"We've waged campaign after campaign to turn our grief into action — each time thinking maybe, just maybe, this will be the one that breaks through. This will be the one that gets through to Congress, which must ultimately act. We've used phrases like Now is the Time. Stop Gun Violence. Enough is Enough.

"Folks, enough has been enough for a long time.

"You know that. On Monday, in the wake of this latest, deadliest, mass shooting, you started this petition. You worked together, calling on your government to ban AR-15-type weapons from civilian ownership. In the days following, we have seen members of the United States Senate take and hold the floor, refusing to back down, refusing to concede that we might need to wait for an even bigger national tragedy to finally make some changes.

"To the creator and signers of this petition, I want to say this as plainly and clearly as possible: The President and I agree with you. Assault weapons and high-capacity magazines should be banned from civilian ownership."

Continue reading the Vice President's message to petition signers.

Every single year, more than 30,000 Americans have their lives cut short by guns. Whether it is from suicide, domestic violence, a gang shootout, or an accident, too many Americans have lost loved ones, including too many precious children. Many have had to learn to live with a disability, or help a loved one do what was once effortless.

That’s why in January, President Obama outlined a number of new, commonsense steps that his Administration is taking to protect our children and communities from gun violence. Today, we are announcing important progress in implementing those steps.

First, smart gun technology. A significant number of gun deaths occur every year because someone other than the gun’s owner was handling it – whether it’s a child who finds a gun at home and shoots it accidentally, or the criminals who obtain stolen or trafficked firearms. So the President took action to boost the development of smart gun and gun safety technology that can prevent these deaths from happening.

“If we can set it up so you can’t unlock your phone unless you’ve got the right fingerprint, why can’t we do the same thing for our guns? If a child can’t open a bottle of aspirin, we should make sure that they can’t pull a trigger on a gun.”

President Obama

He then issued a Presidential Memorandum directing the Departments of Defense (DOD), Homeland Security (DHS), and Justice (DOJ) to prepare a report outlining a strategy for expediting the real-world deployment of smart gun technology.

Today, those agencies are releasing that report. Here are the highlights:

• DOJ and DHS have begun a process to define, for the first time, the requirements that manufacturers would need to meet for federal, state, and municipal law enforcement agencies to consider purchasing firearms with enhanced safety technology.  They’ve committed to completing that process by October, and will also identify agencies interested in taking part in a pilot program to develop the technology.
• DOD will continue to help manufacturers test “smart” firearms under real-world conditions at the U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center in Maryland.  Manufacturers may be eligible to win cash prizes through this program as well.
• The Federal Government stands ready to assist state and local governments as smart gun technology continues to be developed. In the report, DOJ has indicated that state and local governments could apply certain federal grants to the purchase of new firearms, including those equipped with advanced safety technology.

Together, these actions have the potential to jumpstart the development of proven gun safety technologies that can save lives and preserve the effectiveness of our firearms. There is no problem that America’s innovators cannot solve, and we are confident that by focusing the private sector’s attention on smart gun technology, we will unlock life-saving innovations.

Even apart from the steps announced by President Obama earlier this year, including additional efforts to promote smart gun technology, DOJ’s National Institute of Justice (NIJ) will continue to support a broad range of research to better understand gun violence in our country. For example, NIJ has indicated that it anticipates awarding up to $3 million to support investigator-initiated research to “strengthen our knowledge base and improve public safety by producing findings with practical implications for reducing firearms violence.” As in so many other areas of life, this important research and science can help keep us all safe.

Second, mental illness. In January, the President called for a new $500 million investment in mental health treatment and underscored the increased mental health coverage that the Affordable Care Act has made possible. While recognizing that individuals with mental illness are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators, he also made clear that we do need to do a better job of ensuring that those who are already prohibited by law from buying a gun cannot obtain one.

“We’re going to ensure that federal mental health records are submitted to the background check system, and remove barriers that prevent states from reporting relevant information.”

President Obama

Today, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is moving forward with one important aspect of those efforts by publishing a proposed rule to help ensure appropriate information in its records is reported to the background check system about individuals prohibited from buying a gun. The rule would also provide a way for people to seek relief from the federal prohibition on possessing a firearm for reasons related to mental health. This is just the first step in the rulemaking process. Once the rule publishes in the Federal Register, the public has 60 days to comment on the proposal to ensure SSA can incorporate feedback from a broad range of stakeholders before finalizing the rule.

Third, engagement with state and local leaders. I’m proud to announce that in May, the White House will host a 50-State Gun Violence Prevention Convening. We will bring together state and local elected officials, including governors, attorneys general, state legislators, and city and county officials, who have been leaders in the fight to save lives from gun violence.  The agenda will focus on state and local efforts to prevent gun violence through legislative and executive actions, including those focused on reducing gun violence in domestic abuse incidents and furthering research and development of smart gun technologies.  Participants will also have an opportunity to discuss ways states can improve their reporting to the background check system, particularly in light of new data recently released by DOJ about the number of records each state has submitted to a key national database.

We will never be able to stop every form of violence, but when we can take action to save even one life, we owe it to every American to do so.  That’s why the President has been so committed to doing everything within his authority to keep our country safe – and why he will continue to call on Congress to pass the kind of commonsense reforms supported by the vast majority of the American people. The actions the Administration takes will help make our communities safer and keep more guns out of the hands of folks who shouldn’t have them. That is just common sense.

Let’s never forget how our American community came together to support our brothers and sisters in Charleston. As a nation, we cried for their suffering, honored their lives, and as President Obama noted, challenged ourselves, even in the midst of our sadness, "To see where we've been blind." We came together to make clear how the Confederate flag has been a "reminder of systematic oppression and racial subjugation." We were reminded of how gun violence inflicts a "unique mayhem" on our nation. The tragedy spotlighted how past injustices continue to shape our present actions. And the encouraging call of South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley to take down the Confederate flag from the state's capitol was part of an incredible moment of national unity.

Now, a year later, the mass shooting in Orlando last Sunday that was also fueled by hate painfully reminds us that our work is far from done.  

As the President noted, Reverend Pinckney understood that "justice grows out of recognition of ourselves in each other. That my liberty depends on you being free, too. That history can’t be a sword to justify injustice, or a shield against progress, but must be a manual for how to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past -- how to break the cycle. A roadway toward a better world. He knew that the path of grace involves an open mind -- but, more importantly, an open heart."

Let's never forget the legacy of those lives lost, those injured, and those affected by this day. Please remember them in our thoughts, our prayers -- but also remember them with our actions. We cannot turn away from the fact that the worst mass shooting in our history took place just five days ago or that approximately 30,000 lives each year are cut short by gun violence in this country, and that countless more lives are forever changed through injuries or the loss of a loved one.

The vast majority of Americans and the majority of gun owners want to do something about this. They too feel the fierce urgency of now -- understanding that it is not the time to give up the fight to end senseless gun violence.

I still believe that we as a nation can find that amazing grace President Obama spoke about that day to do what we know to be right.

Here's why we're talking about the #StateofWomen today:

Women are increasingly serving as leaders throughout industry, civil society, and government -- but we know that we cannot rest until we tackle the critical issues that still prevent women and girls from reaching their true potential.

That's the whole idea behind today's main event: The United State of Women Summit in Washington, D.C., a large-scale effort to celebrate our great strides toward equality while addressing the challenges that remain.

We're bringing together experts, advocates, grassroots organizers, and business leaders on issues that affect women and girls, including special guests like Nancy Pelosi, Gloria Steinem, Shonda Rhimes, and Connie Britton.

Here's how you can join us:

Watch the Summit live

You can watch events from throughout the day, from President Obama's remarks, to the Vice President's remarks, to First Lady Michelle Obama's conversation with Oprah Winfrey.

You'll also hear from extraordinary women and men who are sharing their stories and ideas for the future, including Amy Poehler of Parks and Recreation, Kerry Washington of Scandal, Reshma Saujani of Girls Who Code, and many more.

Join the conversation online

We'll have digital Q&As and conversations with Summit participants happening all day on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Instagram and more -- so be sure to join us online using the hashtag #StateofWomen.

Hope you're excited for what is sure to be a fascinating and inspiring day -- I know I am.

Thanks for all you do,

Valerie

Valerie Jarrett
Senior Advisor
The White House
@vj44

As our population changes, we have a collective responsibility to make sure older Americans can both take advantage of the opportunities of their golden years and overcome the barriers that aging can create. That’s why President Obama was so proud to sign a reauthorization of the Older Americans Act, a bill he had called on Congress to pass since last summer’s White House Conference on Aging. As the President said then: 

We’re going to work with Congress to reauthorize the Older Americans Act because we know it will provide critical support to families and communities.

President Obama

The President believes in the Older Americans Act because it funds services that are central to older adults’ health and lasting independence, such as meals, job training, transportation, and health promotion.  And for those who do need consistent care, the law provides nursing home protections and enhances the Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs.

The reauthorization of the Older Americans Act is just the latest example of our work to ensure older Americans can live the lives they want, with the people they choose. The Administration was the first to invest in elder justice and the prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. The Federal Government is now leading in establishing national guidelines, creating a common vocabulary across states, and developing a framework for sharing best practices and collecting data.

The Department of Health and Human Services created Aging.gov to provide a one-stop shop for Americans looking for information about services and support. The Department of Housing and Urban Development released a guide to help older homeowners, families, and caregivers make changes to their homes so that older adults can remain safe and independent. We have also led the way in making investments across government on healthy aging and into research on conditions such as Alzheimer’s. And we will continue to fight to preserve and strengthen Social Security and Medicare.

The simple truth is that aging affects us all. A part of our nation’s social contract is the promise we make to older generations of Americans who will leave behind a brighter future for us all to enjoy. It is a promise we make to our elders so that as we work to leave our indelible stamp on America, in our time, our children and grandchildren will keep that promise with us. That fidelity to one another is central to who we are.  Those are American values. They are part of why the Older Americans Act is so important.

We heard from the group about what they are seeing in their communities, including specific heart-wrenching stories of members of their congregations whose lives have been devastated by usurious loans. We heard their recommendations for action to address the abuses in payday lending that are visiting hardship upon their communities.

What emerged was a common, powerful theme: that we have a moral obligation as a country to do something to stop payday lenders from preying on consumers by trapping them in an endless cycle of debt.

These leaders reflected the views of their communities. For example, a recent survey reported that 77 percent of American Christians and 85 percent of Evangelical Christians think predatory lending is sinful. Ninety-four percent of Christians believe that lenders should only extend loans at reasonable interest rates based on an ability to repay. In an example of a faith community in action, leaders in Garland, Texas drove predatory lending from their community after many were ensnared in payday debt traps. And coalitions of religious organizations such as Faith for Just Lending are making their voices heard across the country.

Providing stronger protections in areas such as payday lending are precisely why the President worked with Congress to create a new, independent agency focused solely on consumer protection as part of financial reform, and to ensure it had the authority to address abuses in this space. Last March, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) took steps toward a rulemaking to curb abusive practices involving payday loans and other short-term lending.

Yet even as there is widespread agreement across a diverse array of faith communities that something needs to be done to address payday lending abuses, too often these reasonable efforts face stiff resistance from the special interests supported by the payday loan industry. So, today was an important reaffirmation that diverse religious leaders and thousands like them are making clear why the independent CFPB has such strong moral grounds for addressing abuses in payday lending. We are grateful to these religious leaders for their commitment to serve their communities and look forward to working with them in the days ahead.

To talk about how we can work toward giving every woman a fair shot at success, Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett wrote this message to Fairygodboss, an online community of people who share a common passion for improving the workplace for women. Check it out:

We are at a pivotal moment in American history. Women are increasingly entering fields where they have been traditionally underrepresented, while standing on the shoulders of past champions for equality. We are scientists, engineers, and astronauts. We are senators, governors, and mayors. We have senior positions from the board room to the White House. We are coaches and star athletes. We are graduating from college at higher rates than men. We are role models for all of our daughters and sons.

We should be proud of our progress, yet still, disparities persist. The typical woman makes 79 cents on the dollar, as compared to our typical male colleague. Compared to the typical non-Hispanic white man, the typical African American woman makes 60 cents on the dollar, while the typical Hispanic woman makes 55 cents. Women are also less likely to start or run small businesses. We face a tougher climb up the ranks of corporate America, and tend to drop out of fields such as computer science after only a few years. And we still suffer from gender stereotypes that limit our reach beginning in early childhood.

So, on this Equal Pay Day, let’s ask what more we can all do to ensure we continue to create equal opportunities for all Americans. Inequality in the workforce doesn’t just adversely affect women; it affects our families and our broader economy. As President Obama says, “When women succeed, America succeeds.”

In his first month in office, President Obama proudly signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, making it easier for women to challenge unjust pay disparities. He has taken steps to ensure businesses report detailed data so they know when they have a pay gap in their workplaces and so we can better enforce of existing laws, and he has prohibited federal contractors from retaliating against workers who share compensation data with one another. He continues to call on Congress to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act to further protect women from wage discrimination; to pass the Healthy Families Act, which would provide seven paid sick days; and to pass legislation that provides for paid leave – because still, the United States remains the only developed country without a national paid leave policy. The President has signed Presidential Memoranda that advance six weeks of paid sick leave to all federal employees and direct agencies to expand workplace flexibility to the maximum extent practicable. He also recognizes that change must come from outside of government, so he has called on leaders from the private sector to adopt family-friendly workplace policies, including affordable child care, workplace flexibility, paid sick days, paid leave, and raising the minimum wage – factors that affect the pay gap between men and women.

So yes, we have made progress. The pay gap has narrowed slightly. Companies such as Salesforce and Gap have enacted policies to ensure men and women are treated equally, so they can thrive at home and at work.

And when Congress failed to act, the President challenged states and cities across the country to raise their minimum wage laws and create paid family or sick leave programs. So far, at least 65 cities and 18 states have responded, with New York and California the latest to join and San Francisco about to become the first American city to provide six weeks of fully paid leave for new parents.

But new laws and policies alone will not fix the problems we still face. We must continue to challenge the belief that a woman who negotiates her salary is being difficult or ungrateful, or that having a child must go hand in hand with sacrificing one’s professional aspirations. We need to constantly reinforce with our girls that they too can be whatever they want to be regardless of outdated gender norms. That they, too, can break through the glass ceiling to wherever their passions lead them.

We need to have this conversation, and we ask you to be a part of it. On May 23rd, the White House will host the Summit on the United State of Women – a daylong opportunity to take stock of the progress we have made together and the road ahead of us. In the meantime, let's ask ourselves: How will we further the #StateOfWomen to expand opportunities and pave paths without barriers? How will you contribute to the conversation?

Thanks for your partnership, and for all the work you do to leave behind a better country for all of our daughters and sons.

Valerie

@VJ44

Since President Obama entered public service, he’s been driven by a simple belief: in America, if you're willing to work hard and play by the rules, you should be able to get ahead and provide opportunities for your family.

That means you should be able to thrive at work and at home -- and that you shouldn't have to dent your paycheck, or risk losing your job, to be a good mom or dad, or care for your aging parent. And if you’re willing to work full time, you definitely shouldn’t be forced to live in poverty.

That's why the President has repeatedly called on Congress and leaders across our country in the public and private sectors to expand family-friendly workplace policies, such as paid family leave, paid sick days, equal pay for equal work, affordable child care, and a higher minimum wage.

We're thrilled that today, New York State answered the call and took an important step forward for working families when Governor Cuomo signed a budget that included paid family leave and an increase in the minimum wage.

With these measures, New York became the first state to create a paid family leave program since President Obama urged states to take action in 2014, as well as the 18th state to raise its minimum wage since he urged Congress to act in 2013.

The President knows working families cannot wait for Congress to move our country forward. That's why he's made progress on his own by raising the minimum wage for employees of federal contractors, strengthening overtime protections, and protecting employees of federal contractors from being retaliated against by their bosses if they discuss their wages.

Americans shouldn’t need to choose between their families and making ends meet. Thanks to Governor Cuomo’s and the state legislature’s leadership, New Yorkers will now move closer to never having to face that choice, by creating a culture that rewards hard work and empowers families.

I hope you’ll join us in celebrating this accomplishment.

Thanks for everything you do,

Valerie

Valerie Jarrett
Senior Advisor
The White House
@VJ44

Yesterday, the White House hosted an historic convening of formerly incarcerated citizens, academics, private sector and foundation leaders, and Administration officials to discuss the challenges people face building a life after receiving clemency. The event highlighted our collective responsibility to ensure those who have paid their debt and earned a second chance successfully land on their feet. It is an obligation we have not just to those who have been incarcerated, but to their families and loved ones, whose lives are deeply affected as well.

We heard the moving stories of Americans who had faced the challenges of reentering society after receiving clemency – of adjusting to the often sudden freedoms we so frequently take for granted. They spoke of how hard it was to find work and housing, and to re-establish relationships that often suffered from years of separation – of having to adjust to our daily dependence on the internet and technology, from cell phones to ATMs. Their families spoke of the difficulties of living without their loved ones at home, and the cycles of poverty that are often reinforced when we separate mothers and fathers from their children. 

It was a privilege for me to address the convening and speak about the ways their experiences have moved President Obama and so many in his Administration.

Reforming our broken criminal justice system and ending this misguided drug war’s era of mass incarceration for nonviolent drug offenders has been one of President Obama’s top priorities. The President has done his part by picking up the pace of granting clemency. Yesterday’s event followed the announcement of 61 more commutations, which brought the total number of commutations granted by President Obama to 248 – or more than the last six presidents combined. 

Yet as we all recognize, our work is not done. Still, too many Americans remain in prison with sentences that do not fit the crime, and that doesn’t make our communities safer. As White House Counsel Neil Eggleston and Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates noted in their remarks, this is not about being soft on crime – it’s about being smart on crime. When we incarcerate people, we have to make sure the punishment is consistent with the offense and that we are fair. That’s why this week, the President reiterated his commitment to ramping up even further the clemency process to remedy injustices in our criminal justice system. Organizations such as Clemency Project 2014, Families Against Mandatory Minimums, and the Open Society Foundation have done such important work bringing people together to process the applications of the thousands of prisoners who deserve clemency consideration. And while we celebrated the progress we’ve made, we also recognized that we need more attorneys, bar associations, and law clinics to step up to review applications – to partner with the government as we undertake this long overdue work.

Lastly, we all reiterated how important it is that Congress pass comprehensive criminal justice reform. Although clemency is an important tool for the President to reverse some of the injustice in our justice system, it is not enough. We need reform that reduces mandatory minimums for certain nonviolent drug offenders, invests in reentry services and support, helps juvenile offenders stay on the right track, and makes our communities safer.

As I said in my closing remarks, we are in a unique moment. Because of the grit and determination of the folks I met who have been granted clemency, and those who support them, I am more optimistic than I’ve ever been that we can take substantial steps to heal a system that has torn apart families and communities for too long. We are our brothers’ and our sisters’ keepers, and we all must make our voices heard. Because we each have the responsibility to pick up each other when we fall.

Since President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama entered the White House in 2009, they have embraced the idea of making the White House “The People’s House,” opening it to individuals from many backgrounds and walks of life. Over the last seven years, more than 4.95 million people have visited the White House, and tomorrow nearly 35,000 will join the First Family on the South Lawn as they hosted their last Easter Egg Roll.

The First Lady previously expressed how important it was to her and the President to invite people from all over when she said, “We wanted to change things up here in the White House a little bit.  We wanted to open the doors really wide to a bunch of different folks who usually don’t get access to this place.” The Easter Egg Roll shows the First Family’s efforts to open the doors very wide. No matter your race, your religion, or the composition of your family, the President and First Lady have always been fully committed to welcoming all Americans to the White House. Get a  glimpse into the Easter Egg Roll's past, and meet several families who were able to participate.

The 2016 #EasterEggRoll is here! We are opening the @WhiteHouse to more than 35K people. Today I’ll share photos of families who joined us!

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

Welcoming Isiah Britt & parents to @WhiteHouse! At 7 he worked to send sanitizer to schools in Flint #EasterEggRoll pic.twitter.com/DLUbPHCvUc

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

Kameria Crayton is all smiles today - she gets to meet @POTUS! #EasterEggRoll https://t.co/MaZPerNyN9 pic.twitter.com/SzQD0A6MGV

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

Say hi to 3 generations of the Gill family who traveled all the way from Sisseton, SD for the #EasterEggRoll! pic.twitter.com/a8gqg4OlYO

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

Ellie and Ronald showing off their egg dyeing skills to their parents at today's #EasterEggRoll pic.twitter.com/CoirR0ojKc

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

Watch these kids compete in the #EasterEggRoll on the South Lawn! pic.twitter.com/iCWVSKN8W6

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

#Let'sCelebrate with 10 year old Dominika as she meets Woodsy Owl during her first visit @WhiteHouse! #EasterEggRoll pic.twitter.com/PyCHHi261K

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

A beautiful day at the @WhiteHouse! #EasterEggRoll pic.twitter.com/1obmW0kxah

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

30 yrs ago the Yu family immigrated from Korea & today they celebrate #EasterEggRoll w/3 y/o Josiah & 8 m/o Micah! pic.twitter.com/yKi78ERAN7

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

My Brother's Keeper Challenge mentor Forrest Daniels with his family #EasterEggRoll pic.twitter.com/XNTyBAfvrr

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

Hope you enjoyed the First Family's final #EasterEggRoll! https://t.co/ziDv8lO6Kj

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) March 28, 2016

When I woke up on February 10, 2007 in Springfield, Illinois, my heart was full of hope about the infinite possibilities that lay ahead. We knew there would be challenges but we also knew that our country is strong, resilient and exceptional because of the spirit, grit and determination of the American people to constantly work hard to perfect our union.

It's hard to believe that nine years have gone by since that freezing but bright and sunny day on the steps of the Old State Capitol Building. For many of us, here at the White House and across the country, the President's return to Springfield today is a walk down memory lane - a moment to think about where we came from and what has happened since. For me, it was also a moment to revisit the vision he laid out for this country when he announced his candidacy for President.

Re-reading his speech, nine years later, with lots of battle scars, and victories, and what feels like lifetimes of wisdom under our belts, is nothing short of amazing. Many of the policy ideas he put forth — from re-shaping our economy to compete in the digital age, to expanding access to broadband, from ensuring workers can share in our economic prosperity, to becoming the generation that finally tackles our health care crisis — have become reality.

Nine years ago, the President spoke of the need for change to come from communities across the country, not just from Washington. He brought that approach with him - galvanizing governors, mayors, faith, civil rights and business leaders, workers, students, and a broad spectrum of advocates to act, whether by raising the minimum wage, extending family-friendly workplace policies to their citizens, providing early education to their children, overhauling job training programs, joining his My Brother's Keeper Initiative, or ending veterans' homelessness. And together, we have cut our unemployment rate from 10 percent at the height of the economic crisis we inherited to 4.9 percent today.

Nine years ago, the President urged ours to be the "generation that finally tackles our health care crisis." And today, Obamacare is simply health care in America. Nearly 18 million Americans have gained health insurance. Health care prices are growing at their slowest rate in half a century. Americans can no longer be discriminated against because they have been sick before. And young adults can stay on their parents' insurance until they are 26. Americans no longer have to worry about going broke if they get sick or are in an accident.

Nine years ago, President Obama rallied Americans to rise to the challenge that climate change poses to all of humanity. Since then, he has protected more natural resources than any previous president. His fuel economy standards will double the efficiency of vehicles by 2025. His investments in clean energy have transformed the American energy landscape. And together with other world leaders, he brought together 196 nations from around the globe to forge an unprecedented agreement to combat climate change.

And nine years ago, the President talked about the work he had done — and education he had received — from some of Chicago's poorest neighborhoods. In fact over 30 years ago, the President's job with the Developing Communities Project was to ensure that the residents of neighborhoods across Chicago had a voice in addressing issues facing their communities, from drugs, to violence, to job training. When Barack Obama became President, he pressed to improve the way the federal government partners with citizens and local leaders. These efforts all disrupt the outdated, top-down way the federal government has historically worked with communities in favor of a more citizen-centered and customized approach. This led to initiatives launched by 15 agencies reaching over 1,800 rural, tribal, and urban communities to tackle challenges as varied as climate change and entrenched poverty. Together, these reform efforts work to make local voices and improved local capacity an integral part of community planning and development, improve the federal government's approach to working with communities, and invest in leaders with experience working at the local level.

As the President will lay out again today in Springfield, the change we have made is very meaningful — and so is the work we have left to do. That is no more apparent than when it comes to our divided and broken politics — and that is why you will continue to hear the President talking about this throughout his final year of office.

But at a time when policy ideas from the campaign trail too often never again see the light of day, examining the change of the last nine years provides an important blueprint of what it means to turn ideas into action — and to make hope and change real. You can read more about what the President said back in 2007 and how he delivered on his promises in my first ever Genius annotation: his announcement speech. Then, you can share your story about where you were when the President announced his candidacy and how it touched you using #WhereWereYou.

Remarks by then-Senator Barack Obama — As Prepared for Delivery

Saturday, February 10, 2007

Springfield, IL

Let me begin by saying thanks to all you who've traveled, from far and wide, to brave the cold today.

We all made this journey for a reason. It's humbling, but in my heart I know you didn't come here just for me, you came here because you believe in what this country can be. In the face of war, you believe there can be peace. In the face of despair, you believe there can be hope. In the face of a politics that's shut you out, that's told you to settle, that's divided us for too long, you believe we can be one people, reaching for what's possible, building that more perfect union.

That's the journey we're on today. But let me tell you how I came to be here. As most of you know, I am not a native of this great state. I moved to Illinois over two decades ago. I was a young man then, just a year out of college; I knew no one in Chicago, was without money or family connections. But a group of churches had offered me a job as a community organizer for $13,000 a year. And I accepted the job, sight unseen, motivated then by a single, simple, powerful idea — that I might play a small part in building a better America.

My work took me to some of Chicago's poorest neighborhoods. I joined with pastors and lay-people to deal with communities that had been ravaged by plant closings. I saw that the problems people faced weren't simply local in nature — that the decision to close a steel mill was made by distant executives; that the lack of textbooks and computers in schools could be traced to the skewed priorities of politicians a thousand miles away; and that when a child turns to violence, there's a hole in his heart no government could ever fill.

It was in these neighborhoods that I received the best education I ever had, and where I learned the true meaning of my Christian faith.

After three years of this work, I went to law school, because I wanted to understand how the law should work for those in need. I became a civil rights lawyer, and taught constitutional law, and after a time, I came to understand that our cherished rights of liberty and equality depend on the active participation of an awakened electorate. It was with these ideas in mind that I arrived in this capital city as a state Senator.

It was here, in Springfield, where I saw all that is America converge — farmers and teachers, businessmen and laborers, all of them with a story to tell, all of them seeking a seat at the table, all of them clamoring to be heard. I made lasting friendships here — friends that I see in the audience today.

It was here we learned to disagree without being disagreeable — that it's possible to compromise so long as you know those principles that can never be compromised; and that so long as we're willing to listen to each other, we can assume the best in people instead of the worst.

That's why we were able to reform a death penalty system that was broken. That's why we were able to give health insurance to children in need. That's why we made the tax system more fair and just for working families, and that's why we passed ethics reforms that the cynics said could never, ever be passed.

It was here, in Springfield, where North, South, East and West come together that I was reminded of the essential decency of the American people — where I came to believe that through this decency, we can build a more hopeful America.

And that is why, in the shadow of the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln once called on a divided house to stand together, where common hopes and common dreams still, I stand before you today to announce my candidacy for President of the United States.

I recognize there is a certain presumptuousness — a certain audacity — to this announcement. I know I haven't spent a lot of time learning the ways of Washington. But I've been there long enough to know that the ways of Washington must change.

The genius of our founders is that they designed a system of government that can be changed. And we should take heart, because we've changed this country before. In the face of tyranny, a band of patriots brought an Empire to its knees. In the face of secession, we unified a nation and set the captives free. In the face of Depression, we put people back to work and lifted millions out of poverty. We welcomed immigrants to our shores, we opened railroads to the west, we landed a man on the moon, and we heard a King's call to let justice roll down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream.

Each and every time, a new generation has risen up and done what's needed to be done. Today we are called once more — and it is time for our generation to answer that call.

For that is our unyielding faith — that in the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it.

That's what Abraham Lincoln understood. He had his doubts. He had his defeats. He had his setbacks. But through his will and his words, he moved a nation and helped free a people. It is because of the millions who rallied to his cause that we are no longer divided, North and South, slave and free. It is because men and women of every race, from every walk of life, continued to march for freedom long after Lincoln was laid to rest, that today we have the chance to face the challenges of this millennium together, as one people — as Americans.

All of us know what those challenges are today — a war with no end, a dependence on oil that threatens our future, schools where too many children aren't learning, and families struggling paycheck to paycheck despite working as hard as they can. We know the challenges. We've heard them. We've talked about them for years.

What's stopped us from meeting these challenges is not the absence of sound policies and sensible plans. What's stopped us is the failure of leadership, the smallness of our politics — the ease with which we're distracted by the petty and trivial, our chronic avoidance of tough decisions, our preference for scoring cheap political points instead of rolling up our sleeves and building a working consensus to tackle big problems.

For the last six years we've been told that our mounting debts don't matter, we've been told that the anxiety Americans feel about rising health care costs and stagnant wages are an illusion, we've been told that climate change is a hoax, and that tough talk and an ill-conceived war can replace diplomacy, and strategy, and foresight. And when all else fails, when Katrina happens, or the death toll in Iraq mounts, we've been told that our crises are somebody else's fault. We're distracted from our real failures, and told to blame the other party, or gay people, or immigrants.

And as people have looked away in disillusionment and frustration, we know what's filled the void. The cynics, and the lobbyists, and the special interests who've turned our government into a game only they can afford to play. They write the checks and you get stuck with the bills, they get the access while you get to write a letter, they think they own this government, but we're here today to take it back. The time for that politics is over. It's time to turn the page.

We've made some progress already. I was proud to help lead the fight in Congress that led to the most sweeping ethics reform since Watergate.

But Washington has a long way to go. And it won't be easy. That's why we'll have to set priorities. We'll have to make hard choices. And although government will play a crucial role in bringing about the changes we need, more money and programs alone will not get us where we need to go. Each of us, in our own lives, will have to accept responsibility — for instilling an ethic of achievement in our children, for adapting to a more competitive economy, for strengthening our communities, and sharing some measure of sacrifice. So let us begin. Let us begin this hard work together. Let us transform this nation.

Let us be the generation that reshapes our economy to compete in the digital age. Let's set high standards for our schools and give them the resources they need to succeed. Let's recruit a new army of teachers, and give them better pay and more support in exchange for more accountability. Let's make college more affordable, and let's invest in scientific research, and let's lay down broadband lines through the heart of inner cities and rural towns all across America.

And as our economy changes, let's be the generation that ensures our nation's workers are sharing in our prosperity. Let's protect the hard-earned benefits their companies have promised. Let's make it possible for hardworking Americans to save for retirement. And let's allow our unions and their organizers to lift up this country's middle class again.

Let's be the generation that ends poverty in America. Every single person willing to work should be able to get job training that leads to a job, and earn a living wage that can pay the bills, and afford child care so their kids have a safe place to go when they work. Let's do this.

Let's be the generation that finally tackles our health care crisis. We can control costs by focusing on prevention, by providing better treatment to the chronically ill, and using technology to cut the bureaucracy. Let's be the generation that says right here, right now, that we will have universal health care in America by the end of the next president's first term.

Let's be the generation that finally frees America from the tyranny of oil. We can harness homegrown, alternative fuels like ethanol and spur the production of more fuel-efficient cars. We can set up a system for capping greenhouse gases. We can turn this crisis of global warming into a moment of opportunity for innovation, and job creation, and an incentive for businesses that will serve as a model for the world. Let's be the generation that makes future generations proud of what we did here.

Most of all, let's be the generation that never forgets what happened on that September day and confront the terrorists with everything we've got. Politics doesn't have to divide us on this anymore — we can work together to keep our country safe. I've worked with Republican Senator Dick Lugar to pass a law that will secure and destroy some of the world's deadliest, unguarded weapons. We can work together to track terrorists down with a stronger military, we can tighten the net around their finances, and we can improve our intelligence capabilities. But let us also understand that ultimate victory against our enemies will come only by rebuilding our alliances and exporting those ideals that bring hope and opportunity to millions around the globe.

But all of this cannot come to pass until we bring an end to this war in Iraq. Most of you know I opposed this war from the start. I thought it was a tragic mistake. Today we grieve for the families who have lost loved ones, the hearts that have been broken, and the young lives that could have been. America, it's time to start bringing our troops home. It's time to admit that no amount of American lives can resolve the political disagreement that lies at the heart of someone else's civil war. That's why I have a plan that will bring our combat troops home by March of 2008. Letting the Iraqis know that we will not be there forever is our last, best hope to pressure the Sunni and Shia to come to the table and find peace.

Finally, there is one other thing that is not too late to get right about this war — and that is the homecoming of the men and women — our veterans — who have sacrificed the most. Let us honor their valor by providing the care they need and rebuilding the military they love. Let us be the generation that begins this work.

I know there are those who don't believe we can do all these things. I understand the skepticism. After all, every four years, candidates from both parties make similar promises, and I expect this year will be no different. All of us running for president will travel around the country offering ten-point plans and making grand speeches; all of us will trumpet those qualities we believe make us uniquely qualified to lead the country. But too many times, after the election is over, and the confetti is swept away, all those promises fade from memory, and the lobbyists and the special interests move in, and people turn away, disappointed as before, left to struggle on their own.

That is why this campaign can't only be about me. It must be about us — it must be about what we can do together. This campaign must be the occasion, the vehicle, of your hopes, and your dreams. It will take your time, your energy, and your advice — to push us forward when we're doing right, and to let us know when we're not. This campaign has to be about reclaiming the meaning of citizenship, restoring our sense of common purpose, and realizing that few obstacles can withstand the power of millions of voices calling for change.

By ourselves, this change will not happen. Divided, we are bound to fail.

But the life of a tall, gangly, self-made Springfield lawyer tells us that a different future is possible.

He tells us that there is power in words.

He tells us that there is power in conviction.

That beneath all the differences of race and region, faith and station, we are one people.

He tells us that there is power in hope.

As Lincoln organized the forces arrayed against slavery, he was heard to say: "Of strange, discordant, and even hostile elements, we gathered from the four winds, and formed and fought to battle through."

That is our purpose here today.

That's why I'm in this race.

Not just to hold an office, but to gather with you to transform a nation.

I want to win that next battle — for justice and opportunity.

I want to win that next battle — for better schools, and better jobs, and health care for all.

I want us to take up the unfinished business of perfecting our union, and building a better America.

And if you will join me in this improbable quest, if you feel destiny calling, and see as I see, a future of endless possibility stretching before us; if you sense, as I sense, that the time is now to shake off our slumber, and slough off our fear, and make good on the debt we owe past and future generations, then I'm ready to take up the cause, and march with you, and work with you. Together, starting today, let us finish the work that needs to be done, and usher in a new birth of freedom on this Earth.

Today, that goal has not only been met, but surpassed.

Why are U.S. cities so important to President Obama’s climate agenda?

Cities are home to 70 percent of the world’s total energy related carbon emissions and 90 percent of the world’s largest cities rest on coastal or intercostal waterways – making cities increasingly vulnerable to negative economic, environmental and health impacts.

Increasingly, mayors know they do not need to choose between economic health and environmental health. Reducing carbon pollution is not an economic cost; it is a competitive necessity, and an opportunity, that drives local technological innovation, job creation and economic growth.

Cities aren’t waiting for someone else to act. They are taking action right now. Over 100 mayors from all over America are accelerating climate action in their communities.

The Compact of Mayors, launched at the request of the UN Secretary-General by his Special Envoy for Cities and Climate Change, Michael Bloomberg, along with global city networks, C40, ICLEI and UCLG and UN-Habitat, includes cities from the South, to the heartland, to all corners of America, and has demonstrated their collective commitment to fighting climate change.

By committing to the Compact of Mayors, cities around the world are pledging to undertake transparent, data-driven approaches to reduce city-level emissions, lower climate change risk and work to complement national and international efforts to protect our climate.

Cities are retrofitting buildings, creating construction jobs, modernizing transportation networks, incorporating green fleets and bike sharing, and finding new ways to deliver energy and water while reducing carbon pollution.

The Climate Action Champions program was launched by the White House and U.S. Department of Energy in December 2014, to identify and recognize local climate leaders and to provide targeted Federal support to help those communities further raise their ambitions. 

The City of Boston was selected as a Champion, and has been leading by example. Boston has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions 25 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050. The City was the first in the nation to adopt Green Building Zoning, has added climate preparedness to the review of large new development projects, and is working closely with local utilities on energy efficiency and the development of microgrids. In both 2013 and 2015, Boston was ranked by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) as the #1 energy efficient city in the nation.

In Atlanta, in the face of increasing temperatures, droughts and declining agriculture, Mayor Reed has set targets to reduce overall emissions from buildings, waste and transit to 20 percent below 2009 levels by 2020, and 40 percent below 2009 levels by 2030. This plan will create jobs, improve air quality and preserve Atlanta’s livability and history for future generations.

Thousands of miles away in Des Moines, the city is also facing extreme weather, flooding, impact from runoff and a decline in agricultural yields. Mayor Cownie isn’t waiting for his state’s climate plan or for his Senators and Congressmen to weigh in. Instead, the City of Des Moines aims to reduce GHG emissions by 80 percent by 2050, cut carbon emissions from power plants by 16 percent by 2030 and create 2,500 more jobs in energy efficient sectors. Twenty-seven percent of Des Moines’ total electricity is already powered by wind, and because of the cities renewable energy plan, Iowa residential consumers and businesses will have more money in their pockets for things like food and childcare.

In heeding the President’s call to action, U.S. mayors are now connected to mayors around the world looking for solutions, and dedicated to sharing ideas and best practices. And, because of their bold action, a number U.S. cities will join President Obama and Secretary Kerry in Paris for the Climate Summit for Local Leaders, co-hosted by Mike Bloomberg and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, to pool their resources and clout, and urge action nationally and internationally.

When it comes to COP, we have a lot of work left to do to reach an ambitious agreement. But we’re confident we can reach an outcome for which we can all be proud -- one that includes ambitious nationally-determined climate targets from all countries, establishes a framework for countries to increase their ambition over time, puts in place a rigorous system of transparency, provides climate finance for low-carbon development and adaptation, and encourages complementary efforts by sub-national governments, enterprising businesses, innovative scientists and engineers, and an enlightened global public taking actions of their own that demand global leaders to do even more.

The cities taking part in this pledge are making a crucial down payment on that final component of the agreement we hope to achieve. In the days leading up to COP and afterwards, we encourage U.S. mayors to join their 100 plus peers in setting ambitious goals, making robust voluntary commitments and rigorously and consistently reporting on progress in their efforts to combat climate change, greenhouse gasses and climate change risk. The Compact grows in strength with each new commitment and each new collaboration.

Here's the full list of U.S. Cities committed to the Compact of Mayors:

Albany, NY
Alton, WI
Anchorage, AK
Ann Arbor, MI
Apopka, FL
Arlington, VA
Ashland, WI
Aspen, CO
Atlanta, GA
Augusta, GA
Austin, TX
Beaverton, OR
Benicia, CA
Berkeley, CA
Birmingham, AL
Boston, MA
Boulder, CO
Blacksburg, VA
Bladensburg, MD
Bridgeport, CT
Brownsville, TX
Cambridge, MA
Camuy, Puerto Rico 
Carmel, IN
Cayey, Puerto Rico
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Chula Vista, CA
Cleveland, OH
Columbus, OH
Cupertino, CA
Denver, CO
Des Moines, IA
Dubuque, IA
Eagle Nest, NM
Easton, PA
Emeryville, CA
Eugene, OR
Evanston, IL
Fort Collins, CO
Fremont, CA
Grand Rapids, MI
Greenbelt, MD
Houston, TX
Jackson, MS 
King County, WA
Knoxville, TN
Lakewood, CO
Lancaster, CA
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Manhattan Beach, CA
Medford, MA
Memphis, TN
Miami Beach, FL
Miami-Dade, FL
Milwaukee, WI
Minneapolis, MN
Miramar, FL
Montpelier, VT
New Orleans, LA
New York, NY
Northampton, MA
North Miami, FL
Oakland, CA
Olympia, WA
Orlando, FL
Palm Springs, CA
Palo Alto, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Phoenix, AZ
Pinecrest, FL
Pittsburgh, PA
Portland, OR
Providence, RI
Racine, WI
Reno, NV
Richmond, CA
Roanoke, VA
Rochester, NY
Salt Lake City, UT
San Diego, CA
San Francisco, CA
San Jose, CA
San Luis Obispo, CA
San Rafael, CA
Santa Cruz, CA
Santa Fe, NM
Santa Monica, CA
Savannah, GA
Seattle, WA

Seniors can breathe a sigh of relief today, as the final 2016 premiums and deductible for Medicare were announced. For about 70 percent of beneficiaries, premiums will not change -- staying at 2015’s $104.90. And for the remaining beneficiaries, the standard premium will be $121.80 -- $37.50 less per month and $450 less for the year than the Medicare Trustees predicted over the summer. The Part B deductible will be lower than the summer projections as well, at $166 total, or $57 less than predicted. Lastly, the States, which cover these costs for poor Medicare beneficiaries, are projected to save $1.8 billion according to the Medicare Actuaries. 

This good news is all thanks to the agreement that President Obama and Congress came together to craft and make law just last week, called the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015. This new law, in addition to providing stability to our economy and common sense to our budget process, spreads out the cost of maintaining the Medicare Trust Fund for doctors and outpatient services, or Part B. This change will prevent a sharp premium increase in 2016, as well as in 2017 if there is again no cost of living adjustment in Social Security. The law also prevents overpayments for certain physician and surgical services performed outside of the hospital. As a result, taxpayers will save about $9 billion over the next decade, while seniors and individuals with disabilities will save upwards of $3 billion in reduced premiums and cost sharing.

While some consider the Bipartisan Budget Act a rare strike of lightning in the current political climate, lightning has actually struck twice. Last April, the President and Congress came together on another bipartisan bill that strengthens Medicare. Called “The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015," the new law eliminates the flaws in how Medicare pays physicians, permanently extends a program to help low-income seniors pay for their Medicare premiums, and continues to move our health system toward one with patients at the center. And in the coming year, the Administration will continue our important work to implement these improvements to Medicare. 

On top of April’s achievement, the Bipartisan Budget Act builds on another strong foundation: the Affordable Care Act. In fact, thanks in part to reforms in the Affordable Care Act, per-patient Medicare spending has grown at an unusually slow rate in recent years. And in 2015, spending is projected to be once again roughly in line with overall inflation. At the same time as costs are steadying, Medicare benefits are actually getting better. An estimated 39 million people with Medicare saved in 2014 from the law's improved coverage of preventive services. And next year, the Medicare prescription drug "donut hole," or coverage gap, will close even further, resulting in additional savings for beneficiaries. Through this July, almost 10 million Medicare enrollees in its drug program have saved $17.6 billion since 2010, with an average savings of $1,796 per beneficiary. This gap will completely close in 2020.

As we celebrate 50 years of Medicare, we also look forward to the next 50. Today's news builds upon the President's proven commitment -- one that he reiterated this summer at the White House Conference on Aging: to keep Medicare strong, accessible, and affordable for the 55 million Americans who rely on it and for those who will come to rely on it in the years to come.

On July 13, President Obama will host the 2015 White House Conference on Aging. It will be an opportunity to recognize the importance of these landmark programs, while looking ahead to address the issues that will improve the quality of life for older Americans for the next decade. 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of Medicare, Medicaid, and the Older Americans Act, as well as the 80th anniversary of Social Security. On July 13, President Obama will host the 2015 White House Conference on Aging. It will be an opportunity to recognize the importance of these landmark programs, while looking ahead to address the issues that will improve the quality of life for older Americans for the next decade. 

The Conference will convene senior Administration officials, community leaders, caregivers, older adults, families, advocates, and experts from a wide range of health and social service disciplines at the White House. Many more will tune in online to join the national dialogue, as well as focus on the important issues that often require local solutions.  

Compared to previous generations, the possibility of living 20 to 30 years beyond traditional retirement age has created both opportunities and challenges. The White House Conference on Aging represents an important opportunity for communities and decision makers from both the public and private sectors to share best practices, identify future goals, and strengthen partnerships – which will all serve to better assist our aging population as their needs, lifestyles, and ambitions evolve over time. 

In anticipation of the Conference, we are already hearing about dozens of community watch parties being organized in private homes, community centers, and libraries in every state – and that list continues to grow. This new local dimension to the Conference, with local watch parties engaging countless more Americans in the conversation, will make this the largest and most community-focused event on aging the White House has ever hosted.

The President would like to encourage all organizations hosting events – whether public or private – to register their Watch Parties. By registering, hosts will receive the latest information about the Conference, and a rundown of the best ways to submit questions, comments, and stories in real time. Public watch parties will be posted on the Conference website once confirmed.

This is a critical time for this conversation as thousands of Americans turn 65 each day, reshaping the way we think and talk about aging in America. We need to make sure our communities are preparing for an aging society in positive ways and viewing our changing demographics as an opportunity rather than a burden. Older Americans, like all of us, want to be defined by their abilities, not their disabilities.    

That’s why the President is committed to protecting and strengthening Social Security – and securing the basic compact that hard work should be rewarded with dignity at retirement – or in the case of disability or early death. He has called on Congress to work across the aisle to preserve Social Security as a reliable source of income for American seniors and a robust source of benefits to survivors and workers who develop disabilities. He believes that no current beneficiaries should see their basic benefits reduced and he will not accept an approach that slashes benefits for future generations. The President also stands firmly opposed to the privatization of social security, and rejects the notion that the future of hard-working Americans should be left to the fluctuations of financial markets.

The President also continues to fight to protect Medicare, and through the Affordable Care Act, we have successfully lowered prescription drug costs, prohibited insurers from denying coverage to people with pre-existing conditions, and enabled older adults to receive recommended preventive health care at no out-of-pocket costs. 

A great deal of progress has been made – but of course, our work is far from over. As the daughter of a vibrant and independent 86-year-old mother – who is still working by the way, and shows no signs of stopping! – I know we can and must adjust our policies to better allow all seniors to live longer, healthier lives. The White House Conference on Aging provides an important opportunity for us to engage older adults, their families, and all stakeholders to ensure we are effectively supporting and empowering all Americans as they age. 

We owe our seniors our tireless advocacy and enduring respect. We hope to see as many Americans as possible tune in on July 13 to join the President and a diverse group of leaders committed to engaging in a historic conversation. I urge you to organize and register a Watch Party, and help lead this vital conversation in your community. 

Sheila was just 15 years old, being beaten, burned with irons, raped, and living in fear of the men who bought her, with no end in sight. After years of unspeakable abuse, she eventually broke free and found the support she needed with the help of a non-profit led by other survivors. When I met her, she had already earned her GED and was successfully advocating for a new anti-trafficking law that was passed in her home state of New York.

Every day, human trafficking interrupts and torments the lives of thousands of young people, plunging countless children into cycles of darkness, violence, exploitation, and too often — invisibility.

This is not a problem that is relegated overseas. It is a reality in communities throughout the United States, affecting our neighbors, our families, and many of the most vulnerable members of our society. Look beneath the surface in our communities and you will find young people living through nightmares — being targeted in our streets, hotels, malls, and increasingly, over the Internet.

Their exploiters come from all walks of life, too — and can only be stopped with a strong, coordinated effort by a broad range of engaged advocates. President Obama is committed to building the coalition we need to end these heinous crimes and to lift victims and survivors out of the darkness to begin living their lives safely, with dignity and hope for their future.

Yesterday’s National Convening on Trafficking and Child Welfare at the White House provided an important opportunity to strengthen partnerships between federal, state, and local stakeholders, as well as key advocates including actress Ashley Judd. Participants worked together in state teams to establish coordinated action plans for strengthening state and local infrastructure, and implementing the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act, which the President signed into law in 2014.

Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett speaks at the National Convening on Trafficking and Child Welfare at the White House, June 10, 2015.

The Administration for Children and Families within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) also announced yesterday a brand new federal office to help lead the fight to end trafficking and provide appropriate support to survivors. The Office on Trafficking in Persons will help to coordinate work among different levels of government by establishing a national delivery system for victim services, ensuring anti-trafficking policy and programming is based on reliable data, and incorporating anti-trafficking efforts into existing prevention initiatives.

Over the course of the two-day event, state teams worked with expert collaborators from HHS to zero in on both proven and innovative strategies for serving survivors and at-risk youth with the types of support and empowerment they deserve. It requires integrated prevention efforts in our communities, nuanced training for caregivers and outreach professionals, and effective protocols for our schools, hospitals, law enforcement professionals, and courts to identify and assess trafficking cases and young people living at risk.

President Obama is committed to ending modern slavery in this country. And if we work together with our government partners, policymakers, advocates, care and service providers, and the courageous survivors among us, we can help more young people escape the horrors of human trafficking and achieve their dreams.

Last month was National Foster Care Month. It provided us an important opportunity to highlight the many ways that President Obama and his Administration have worked to stem the often disproportionate, unfair, and heartbreaking challenges facing our foster youth, and to provide them the equal opportunity for success that they deserve. We want them to know they are not alone.

In January 2013, President Obama signed the Uninterrupted Scholars Act to give social workers much needed access to student records, helping them work more collaboratively with schools and educators to effectively advocate for foster youth. The President also championed increased access to funding waivers that allow states to embrace innovative approaches to child welfare and financing — including using federal dollars on prevention services to help stabilize families and prevent children from entering the foster care system in the first place.

In December of last year, the President’s Secretaries of Agriculture, Education, and Health and Human Services issued a joint letter to state school officials outlining the eligibility of foster children for free school meals without a household application. The Department of Labor announced that they will develop a web-based tool for foster youth and the adults in their lives to provide easy access to all of the Department’s best youth employment resources.

Because we know that children in foster care are significantly more likely than their peers to be prescribed psychotropic medication — often times at ages and doses that exceed FDA-approved levels — President Obama’s most recent budget proposal encourages the use of evidence-based screening, assessment, and treatment of trauma and mental health disorders among foster youth. That includes $500 million for performance-based incentive payments to states through Medicaid, coupled with $250 million to support infrastructure and capacity building for child welfare providers. 

And because both social science and common sense tell us that children are best raised by loving, caring families, not institutions, the President has proposed in this year’s budget thoughtful limitations on the use of congregate care or “group homes.”

When it comes to older foster youth, we know very few young people, regardless of their upbringing, are ready to be 100 percent independent at the age of 18. That’s why the President’s budget proposal would also allow child welfare agencies to use federal funds to provide services, including room and board, to young people that have aged out of the system up to age 23.

Earlier this month, we honored 12 extraordinary former foster youth as “White House Champions of Change” for their tremendous educational and professional achievements to not only better themselves, but to improve the lives of others in foster care. Seeing their determination to achieve serves as a reminder of what is possible when we remove barriers and give foster youth the opportunity they deserve. 

In April, the White House expanded “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day” to include young people in the Washington, D.C. area who are without guardians or whose parents are unemployed. More than 400 children participated across the White House and 17 federal agencies, and several private companies followed the President’s lead. Microsoft invited Girl Scouts to their D.C. office to learn about coding and careers in STEM. AOL and the NFL invited young people from Big Brothers Big Sisters to their corporate headquarters. 

The fact is, helping more young people reach their full potential is more than the right thing to do; it is the smart thing to do for our communities and our economy. If we don’t make sure our nation’s foster youth are safe, healthy, educated, and prepared for the jobs of tomorrow, we are not doing all we can to ensure that American businesses have access to the workforce they need to grow and compete in the 21st century global economy. 

The statistics paint a heartbreaking picture for today’s foster youth. Only half of foster youth in America complete high school by age 18, and less than 5 percent will graduate from college. Within 18 months of aging out of the foster care system, 40 percent will become homeless, and 54 percent of young men will have been incarcerated, as will 25 percent of young women. 

All children are born with bright glimmers of light in their eyes. And with every home change, or instance of abuse or neglect, that light dims. It is on each of us to engage and empower our foster youth, to recognize their potential, safeguard their dignity, and see them as part of the solutions we need — not as problems that need fixing.

This past month alone, we welcomed legislators, foundations, foster parents, service providers, government officials, advocates, and youth to the White House, representing nearly every state and several tribes, in our ongoing effort to identify and share solutions and effective strategies for everything ranging from access to after-school activities for foster youth, to cost efficient and innovative prevention strategies aimed at keeping families together.   

I also gave the keynote address at the Children’s Home + Aid Champions for Children Luncheon on May 21, where I highlighted the importance of Obama Administration partnerships with first-class foster care service providers. I met a young man that day named Nathan. He described the deplorable abuse he suffered in a foster home, and how a caring social worker intervened and saved his life. Nathan is a recent college graduate, with a bright future ahead of him. Every child deserves that chance.

In President Obama’s second inaugural address, he told the nation: “We are true to our creed when a little girl born into the bleakest poverty knows that she has the same chance to succeed as anybody else, because she is an American; she is free, and she is equal.” 

That is an ideal that we can achieve in this country for all children, including our foster youth — and together, we will.

These Champions have helped advance policies that are good for both families and businesses — such as a higher minimum wage, equal pay, paid leave, workplace flexibility, and affordable quality child care. Our "champs" are proving that these policies are not just about doing what is right for our families — they are about doing what is smart for our businesses and our economy.  

You shouldn’t have to choose btwn rewarding work&raising a family. These #WorkingFamilyChamps are fighting for change pic.twitter.com/N0cNVcnMZ4

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) April 16, 2015

In order for American companies — big and small — to be globally competitive, they must recognize the values and address the needs of the 21st century working family.

It's no secret that our workforce and our families have evolved dramatically over the last few decades:

• Women now make up nearly half of our workforce.
• In more than 6 out of 10 households with children, every adult works — in 1970, it was only 4 in 10.
• Forty percent of working women are the sole or primary breadwinner in their household.

Too often, however, our workplace policies haven't kept up.

And as someone who worked full-time as a single mom, I can tell you: I don’t know what I would have done without paid leave. I’ve never worked for an employer who didn’t have it, but far too many Americans do — to be exact, 43 million private-sector American workers do not receive a single paid sick day.

President Barack Obama delivers remarks at a Champions of Change event highlighting issues important to working families in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building South Court Auditorium, April 16, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

Fortunately, more and more of today's businesses are initiating new efforts to respond to the changing demographics and dynamics in our workforce. Just last month, Microsoft announced it will require all of its U.S. suppliers with more than 50 employees to offer their workers at least 15 days of paid leave per year.

“It’s simple for us … paid time off is good for business. It leads to increased productivity, employee retention, and lower health care costs.”

— Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, one of our Champions of Change

It’s not just major corporations that are taking action — small business owners are doing their part. Randy George, one of our Champions, founded the Red Hen Baking Company in Duxbury, Vermont in 1999 with his wife, Eliza. Red Hen, which now employs 42 people, is mostly known for its delicious breads, but Randy and Eliza also deserve recognition for their support of policies that help families.

They have been outspoken supporters of paid sick day legislation, and of increasing the minimum wage. Randy and Eliza practice what they preach — their employees enjoy these, and other important benefits, such as health coverage and a dedicated lactation room. As Randy shared yesterday, these policies have helped him retain talented people over time. One of them has been with Randy for 15 of Red Hen’s 16 years in business.  

President Barack Obama greets stage participants in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building South Court Auditorium Vestibule prior to a Champions of Change event, April 16, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

We also thanked advocates like Analilia Mejia, who is the executive director of the New Jersey Working Families Alliance — a nonpartisan organization that seeks to promote and defend the interests of New Jersey’s working families. Analilia and her team fought for New Jersey workers to be able to earn paid sick days, so they can take time off work when they are ill.

With her help, the Alliance has successfully advocated for local ordinances in 10 municipalities. Thousands of New Jersey workers have benefited from their work, and now have access to paid sick days.

We need more Champions like Randy, Analilia, and Satya across the country to follow the lead of those who were honored today — and the countless more Champions who are leading by example in communities across the country. Together, with the growing flexibility and strength of our businesses, the commitment of the best workforce in the world, and the leadership of folks like our Champions, our families and businesses will succeed.

Learn more about the extraordinary people we honored as Champions of Change, and see how they're helping to make powerful changes in their companies and communities.

If you missed it, watch the President's remarks at yesterday's event here:

Watch on YouTube

As it turns out, you don't have to be a political wonk to have a policy discussion. And that's the way it should be.

Because here's the reality: When you ask your coworker whether your company offers paid sick leave, you're having a policy discussion. When you ask your boss why you don’t earn the same salary for the same work as the men in the office, you’re having a policy discussion. When you try and put money away for retirement, pay off your student loans each month, deposit your paycheck, or drop your kids off at daycare—those everyday actions are shaped by the policies on the books at your workplace.

Right now, there's a broad conversation about workplace policies that's happening in cities, businesses, communities, and around kitchen tables across the country, and it's one that has the potential to fundamentally change the way middle-class families work and live—for the better. This week, President Obama is having face-to-face conversations with working moms and dads to hear directly from them on the issues that matter most to their families. Today, the President will be traveling to Charlotte, North Carolina, to talk with working moms about the plan he laid out in his proposed budget to help folks trying to support their families. And he'll be taking questions from the BlogHer and SheKnows online communities.

Here's how you can add your voice, no matter where you are:

• Ask questions on social media before, during, and after the meeting using the hashtag #ObamaTownHall.
• Visit BlogHer.com and SheKnows.com and submit your questions and stories in the comment sections of relevant articles and blog posts.

And here are 10 reasons why this is a conversation that matters to you:

1. 60 percent of children are in households where all parents work—including both dual-earner households and single working parents.
2. Nearly half of all parents say that they turned down a job because of inadequate work-family balance.
3. Child care costs have increased 72 percent in the last 25 years, after adjusting for inflation. In three out of five states, child care for an infant costs more than a public university for an 18-year-old.
4. More than half of college and graduate students are now women. Since the mid-1990s, women have accounted for the majority of postsecondary students, meaning that they will account for the majority of our skilled labor force in the future. In 2013, women ages 25-34 were more than 20 percent more likely than men to be college graduates.
5. But, among second-earners, women are 17 percentage points more likely to eventually leave the workforce compared to men. In fact, the US is falling behind its peers in keeping women in the workforce. In 1990, the United States ranked 7th out of 24 current developed countries reporting prime-age female labor force participation, about 8 percentage points higher than the average of that sample. By 2013 the United States had fallen to 19th out of those same 24 countries. A recent study found that the relative expansion of family leave and part-time work programs in other developed countries versus the United States explains nearly one-third of the United States’ relative decline.
6. Children whose mothers received paid maternity leave earn 5 percent higher wages at age 30. Family-friendly practices can also help encourage better bonding between parents and children, which has been shown to lead to better outcomes for children in adulthood. For instance, researchers have shown that children of women who receive paid maternity leave earn 5 percent higher wages at age 30.
7. On average for every $1 men earn, women still make just 78 cents. That means the average women will have lost $420,000 over her lifetime because of the earnings gap.
8. Women who reach age 65 are projected to live about 2.5 years longer than 65 year-old men. That means their retirement years could be almost 14 percent longer, putting a premium on retirement saving for women. In part because of the gender pay gap, women continue to be less prepared for retirement than men. 63 percent of the elderly living below the poverty line are women.
9. More women in senior roles makes for better, more innovative companies. Greater representation of women in top management positions is associated with better firm performance on several dimensions, and research also finds that women can help drive innovation and better target female customers and employees. 
10. Closing the Male-Female Employment gap could boost U.S. GDP by 9 percent—or more than $1.5 trillion, about $5,000 for every man, woman, and child. The best available evidence suggests that encouraging more firms to consider adopting flexible practices can potentially boost productivity, improve morale, and benefit the U.S. economy as a whole.

There are things that our cities, states, businesses, and yes, our Congress, can do right now to make sure our workplaces match the realities of today's working families.

The fastest way to see action on these issues is to help show exactly how many people they affect. That's why your voice is essential to this conversation.

We can't wait to hear what you have to say.

"Tonight, somewhere in America, a young person, let's say a young man, will struggle to fall to sleep, wrestling alone with a secret he's held as long as he can remember. Soon, perhaps, he will decide it's time to let that secret out. What happens next depends on him, his family, as well as his friends and his teachers and his community. But it also depends on us -- on the kind of society we engender, the kind of future we build."

-- President Barack Obama

Thank you for taking the time to sign on to this petition in support of banning the practice known as conversion therapy.

Conversion therapy generally refers to any practices by mental health providers that seek to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity.¹ Often, this practice is used on minors, who lack the legal authority to make their own medical and mental health decisions. We share your concern about its potentially devastating effects on the lives of transgender as well as gay, lesbian, bisexual, and queer youth.

When assessing the validity of conversion therapy, or other practices that seek to change an individual’s gender identity or sexual orientation, it is as imperative to seek guidance from certified medical experts. The overwhelming scientific evidence demonstrates that conversion therapy, especially when it is practiced on young people, is neither medically nor ethically appropriate and can cause substantial harm.

As part of our dedication to protecting America’s youth, this Administration supports efforts to ban the use of conversion therapy for minors.

The use of conversion therapy

The medical and mental health communities have long made clear that they reject the practice of conversion therapy, aimed at “changing” one’s sexual orientation. Recently, efforts to change an individual’s gender identity have also been shown in countless instances to have dangerous effects. More than 40 years ago, the American Psychiatric Association declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder, and in 1998 released a statement “[opposing] any psychiatric treatment, such as ‘reparative’ or ‘conversion’ therapy.” It asserted that “such directed efforts are against fundamental principles of psychoanalytic treatment and often result in substantial psychological pain by reinforcing damaging internalized attitudes.”²

Similarly, the American Psychological Association has repeatedly affirmed its stance against these practices, recently stating that efforts to change an individual’s sexual orientation can pose serious health risks to LGBTQ+ individuals. Numerous other accredited medical and mental health organizations have echoed this sentiment, including the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and the American Counseling Association.

Steps by states

As part of their duty to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of their citizens, several states have taken their own steps to protect minors from the potentially dangerous effects of conversion therapy. California, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia have all banned licensed professionals from using conversion therapy on minors. Since last year, lawmakers in 18 other states have introduced similar legislation.

In a 2013 signing statement for his state’s legislative ban, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie expressed that “exposing children to these health risks without clear evidence of the benefits that outweigh these serious risks is not appropriate.”³ In February 2015, a New Jersey Superior Court judge ruled that advertising a service that could change a person’s sexuality is fraudulent and violates the state’s consumer protection laws.

While a national ban would require congressional action, we are hopeful that the clarity of the evidence combined with the actions taken by these states will lead to broader action that this Administration would support.

The importance of family support

Family relationships are pivotal to the physical and emotional well-being of any child, including LGBTQ+ youth. Every child needs love, support, and acceptance to grow, dream, and thrive. LGBTQ+ youth with supportive families and friends show greater well-being, better general health, and significantly decreased risk for suicide, depression, and substance abuse.⁴

Countless families and guardians across the country proudly support their LGBTQ+ children. Too many LGBTQ+ youth, however, lack this support system, which can have devastating consequences. Negative family reactions to LGBTQ+ youth can be perceived as rejection by children, often contributing to serious health issues and inhibiting a child’s development and well-being.⁵ And when it comes to LGBTQ+ youth, some actions by family and caregivers can be harmful, despite even the best intentions.

This Administration believes that young people should be valued for who they are, no matter what they look like, where they’re from, the gender with which they identify, or who they love.

We hope that the resources below can be of use to LGBTQ+ youth, their families, and friends.

LGBTQ+ youth issues are an Administration priority: Resources for LGBTQ+ youth, their families, and friends

Bullying

In 2011, the Department of Health and Human Services launched StopBullying.gov, aimed at providing valuable resources and support to youth, parents, and community members with the goal of building a safe environment for all youth, including LGBTQ+ youth.

Family acceptance

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supports positive dialogues between providers, families, and LGBTQ+ youth, and has developed A Practitioner's Resource Guide: Helping Families to Support Their LGBT Children to help providers implement best practices in engaging and helping families and caregivers to support their LGBTQ+ children.

LGBTQ+ youth homelessness

To advance the Administration's goal of ending youth homelessness by 2020, federal agencies have developed partnerships to create and promote a research-informed framework that focuses on improving data quality and service capacity to support highly vulnerable homeless youth, including LGBTQ+ youth, youth involved in the foster care or juvenile justice systems, and pregnant and parenting youth.

Tell us what you think about this response and We the People.

[1] See generally California Senate Bill no. 1172 (2012). 

[2] American Psychoanalytic Association, Position Statement on Attempts to Change Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, or Gender Expression (2012).

[3] New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s Statement Upon Signing Assembly Bill No. 3371 (Aug. 19, 2013).

[4] (SAMHSA, p. 5).

[5] (SAMHSA, p. 2).

Watch on YouTube

Last week, the First Family traveled to Selma, Alabama to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the marches from Selma to Montgomery. They honored the men, women, and children who marched that route in 1965, to help ensure the most fundamental right that we have as Americans isn’t obstructed or denied to anyone because of their race or where they live. The right to vote is at the core of our democracy, and this weekend in Selma served as a reminder to us all what was sacrificed to earn us this hallowed responsibility.  

Amidst Saturday’s events, the President and First Lady took a moment to reflect on their experience in Selma -- walking the bridge, addressing that emotional crowd on such a historic day, visiting the National Voting Rights Museum, and most importantly, greeting some of the surviving foot soldiers who bravely risked everything on that Bloody Sunday 50 years ago, and who walked alongside the President of the United States and his family along that same route this past weekend.

Take a moment to reflect with the President and First Lady. Watch their video above, share it with your family and friends, and think through the causes that will move you to #MarchOn for the betterment of your community and our country.

See more:

• Watch the President's remarks on Saturday, and listen to stories from those who marched in 1965
• See the incredible photos taken this weekend by Chief Official White House Photographer Pete Souza

Check out the original post on LinkedIn here.

Thanks to the grit and determination of millions of American workers, America is experiencing resurgence — and every single responsible worker in this country deserves the security of a dignified retirement.

You work hard every day to make ends meet and put a little away for yourself -- for a much-needed vacation, college tuition for your children, or – your retirement. If you’re working hard to build a nest egg for your future, you should have the peace of mind that you’re receiving the most out of your savings and that your hard-earned investment is protected. As the President has said, this country does best when everyone gets their fair shot, everybody does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules.

But right now, you might be surprised to hear that there are no rules to ensure that your financial advisers who invest your savings are acting in your best interest. If you’re one of the more than 75 million families who are investing in an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or employer-based plan, you could be losing out on tens of thousands of dollars in savings because your financial adviser is looking out for his best interest, not yours.

For example, instead of directing you to a low-cost, high-return plan that does the most for your money, your financial adviser could be directing you to a high-cost, low-return plan that does not maximize your return on your investment. Why? Because, under the current system, financial advisers may be receiving backdoor payments for steering you into an investment that pays more for the advisor and less for you. They could buy and sell investments more often than advisable just to collect hidden fees, or they could shift your existing savings from low-fee plans into higher cost ones.

It’s called a “conflict of interest.” It’s wrong. And currently, it’s legal. Take a look at this video to see exactly how conflicted advice may be costing you:

Overall, retirement savers receiving conflicted advice lose roughly 1 percentage point per year. This may seem small, but over a lifetime, that 1 percent could add up to a loss of more than a quarter of the savings a middle-class family could’ve otherwise built if they had received good advice. Taken together, American savers lose $17 billion a year due to conflicts of interest.

Like your doctor or your lawyer, your retirement advisor should be required to do what is best for you. That is why President Obama’s Administration is taking new action to protect hardworking families’ retirement security. The Department of Labor’s proposed updated rule, known as a “fiduciary” standard, will require retirement advisers to put the best interests of their clients above their own financial interests. Many already do. But this rule will give more Americans peace of mind and the tools to build a secure retirement, by giving families the assurance that their retirement advisers are putting them first.

Your savings are the bedrock of your economic security when you decide to retire. You should have every dollar that you’ve earned and the best return on your investment. Not a penny less. The President’s action will help empower you to make sure that your savings are protected and your future is secure.

Now, dig deeper:

• Take a look at this fact sheet for a more in-depth look at today's announcement.
• Read today's report from the Council of Economic Advisors, elaborating on the problem and who it affects.
• Learn more about conflicts of interest -- and how the Department of Labor will act.
• Check out a more in-depth blog post explaining the problem with "conflicts of interest."
• See what other steps the President is taking this week on behalf of working families.

Yesterday, President Obama welcomed Dr. Clarence Jones and his family to the Oval Office. Dr. Jones was a close personal aide to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and a co-author to Dr. King’s "I Have a Dream" speech.

Later this month, we will host a Champions of Change event to highlight outstanding achievements by members of the HBCU community, and a number of calls and briefings to discuss the President’s agenda as it relates to African American communities. 

There are countless men and women whose names may not appear prominently in our history books, but whose sweat, blood, and strength is woven into our national identity and continues to inform our sense of pride and dignity as Americans. Every day this month, I will be tweeting out their stories. To take part, follow me at @vj44 and tweet your suggestions of champions of Black history you think deserve to be highlighted. Make sure to use the hashtag #BlackHistoryMonth.

Stay engaged this Black History Month, get involved in events and service projects in your community, and make a positive impact. 

Read President Obama’s proclamation in honor of Black History Month below, and get the facts here on the Administration's policy priorities and accomplishments of particular significance for African American communities.

Presidential Proclamation -- National African American History Month, 2015

NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH, 2015

- - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

For generations, the story of American progress has been shaped by the inextinguishable beliefs that change is always possible and a brighter future lies ahead. With tremendous strength and abiding resolve, our ancestors -- some of whom were brought to this land in chains -- have woven their resilient dignity into the fabric of our Nation and taught us that we are not trapped by the mistakes of history. It was these truths that found expression as foot soldiers and Freedom Riders sat in and stood up, marched and agitated for justice and equality. This audacious movement gave birth to a new era of civil and voting rights, and slowly, we renewed our commitment to an ideal at the heart of our founding: no matter who you are, what you look like, how modest your beginnings, or the circumstances of your birth, you deserve every opportunity to achieve your God-given potential.

As we mark National African American History Month, we celebrate giants of the civil rights movement and countless other men and women whose names are etched in the hearts of their loved ones and the cornerstones of the country they helped to change. We pause to reflect on our progress and our history -- not only to remember, but also to acknowledge our unfinished work. We reject the false notion that our challenges lie only in the past, and we recommit to advancing what has been left undone.

Brave Americans did not struggle and sacrifice to secure fundamental rights for themselves and others only to see those rights denied to their children and grandchildren. Our Nation is still racked with division and poverty. Too many children live in crumbling neighborhoods, cycling through substandard schools and being affected by daily violence in their communities. And Americans of all races have seen their wages and incomes stagnate while inequality continues to hold back hardworking families and entire communities.

But the trajectory of our history gives us hope. Today, we stand on the shoulders of courageous individuals who endured the thumps of billy clubs, the blasts of fire hoses, and the pain of watching dreams be deferred and denied. We honor them by investing in those around us and doing all we can to ensure every American can reach their full potential. Our country is at its best when everyone is treated fairly and has the chance to build the future they seek for themselves and their family. This means providing the opportunity for every person in America to access a world-class education, safe and affordable housing, and the job training that will prepare them for the careers of tomorrow.

Like the countless, quiet heroes who worked and bled far from the public eye, we know that with enough effort, empathy, and perseverance, people who love their country can change it. Together, we can help our Nation live up to its immense promise. This month, let us continue that unending journey toward a more just, more equal, and more perfect Union.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 2015 as National African American History Month. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

BARACK OBAMA

This week, as part of the President’s commitment to equal opportunity for all students, the White House Domestic Policy Council and the Council on Women and Girls, the Department of Education, and the Georgetown University Law Center on Poverty and Inequality highlighted programs that focus on developing the talent of girls of color and low-income girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and career technical education (CTE) careers. We heard from the educators, innovators, researchers, scientists, and marginalized girls themselves who are dedicated to increasing the participation of low-income girls and girls of color in post-secondary education and in-demand careers within high-growth industry sectors.  

According to a recent National Science Foundation study, today, more women graduate from college and participate in graduate programs than men. As the White House Council on Women and Girls noted in our November 2014 report, Women and Girls of Color: Addressing Challenges and Expanding Opportunity, since 2009, both fourth- and eighth-grade math scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, the largest nationwide assessment, have improved for all girls of color, and since 2009 the high school dropout rate has fallen by 16 percent for black girls and 30 percent for Hispanic girls.

From 2009 to 2012, the graduation rate at four-year colleges and universities increased by 0.9 percentage points for black women, 3.1 percentage points for Hispanic women, 2.7 percentage points for American Indian/Alaska Native women, and 2.1 percentage points for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women. Despite this progress, barriers still exist for girls and women in STEM and CTE fields. In 2010, just 10.6 percent of bachelor’s degrees, 7.9 percent of master’s degrees, and 3.9 percent of doctorate degrees in science and engineering were awarded to women of color, and fewer than 1 in 10 employed engineers were women of color.

Many of these girls and young women continue to demonstrate an interest in STEM/CTE education, and we know that they bring new ideas, perspectives, and a passion for innovation and discovery. However, a dearth of resources effectively focused on marginalized girls, inaccurate stereotypes and implicit bias, and a lack of research informing evidence-based programs have combined to discourage many from pursuing and advancing in STEM and CTE careers. We simply cannot afford to allow these unfair and unnecessary barriers to prevent our nation from benefitting from the talents of the best and brightest Americans without regard to race, ethnicity, income, or gender. 

We are proud to announce that the Administration is working with non-profit partners to expand access to STEM and CTE for marginalized girls, including low-income and girls of color:

• Expanding Access to STEM and CTE Programs that Work: With funding support from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Girls Collaborative Project, in coordination with non-profits like COMPUGIRLS and educators from around the country, will create a new STEM/CTE portal that will centralize resources on expanding marginalized girls’ access to STEM and CTE, including curriculum, research, and promising practices. The new project will also implement educator professional development at the local level.
• Guidance to Ensure All Students Have Access to CTE and Non-Traditional Careers: The Department of Education is developing policy guidance designed to ensure that all students have equal access to CTE programs. The guidance to high schools, community colleges, and other CTE providers will underscore that gender bias has no place in American schools and that Title IX prohibits schools from relying on sex stereotypes in directing students towards certain fields. The guidance will also help state education agencies as they think about ways to improve women’s representation in non-traditional fields as part of their Perkins Act obligations.
• Building Public-Private Partnerships and Strong Mentoring Programs: The Departments of Energy and Education will announce the expansion of a mentoring program that connects federal government employees who are STEM professionals with teachers and middle school students to share their passion, including some of the most marginalized students. This program will expand to additional cities around the country, with a focus on students living in public housing.

To learn more about what the Administration is doing now to expand opportunity for all with respect to STEM and CTE careers, please visit the Office of Science and Technology Policy and previous White House blogs on the topic.

President Obama has said repeatedly that “when women succeed, America succeeds.” And over the past year, millions of women have gained the security of knowing that their professional, academic, financial, and personal dreams will not be put in jeopardy if they face a health challenge. Today, the Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”) released a report detailing the important strides we have made in women’s health as a result of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (“ACA”). 

Up until last year, insurance companies could — and often did — charge women different premiums than men for the same coverage. As of January 1, 2014, the ACA prohibits this gender discrimination. In part because of improved options and affordability, today’s report outlines a significant 5.5 percentage point decline in the uninsured rate among women between the ages of 18 and 64 since 2013. And as more and more women take advantage of the Open Enrollment period that ends February 15, 2015, and sign up for affordable private health insurance, that number will continue to drop.

These statistics are reflected in the individual stories and experiences of our neighbors, friends, colleagues, and loved ones. I recently spoke with Ann C., a mother of three from Connecticut, who described to me her new appreciation for the importance of preventative care. Last year, Ann was relieved to find a health insurance plan that she could afford by enrolling through the Marketplace. She quickly put her new coverage to good use, and scheduled a mammogram. The test revealed an irregularity which lead to an immediate biopsy and minor surgery. She was diagnosed with cancer, but fortunately she had the coverage she needed in order to catch it early on and she had a method to pay for treatment. Imagine learning such news without the ability to receive or pay for treatments. Because she caught it early, Ann is now facing a brighter, cancer-free future.

And Ann is far from alone. One in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, and that is just one of many illnesses which both disproportionately affect women, and which can often be treated more effectively if caught early. The ACA has increased coverage for millions of women and helped millions more remain healthy with improved access to preventive services such as mammograms, Pap smears, contraception, domestic violence screening, and other vital health services for no out-of-pocket cost. As revealed in today’s HHS report, over 48 million women have benefitted from this expanded access to preventive care. And because these services are available without a co-pay, women no longer need to choose between the health care they need and their other essential expenses.

Today’s report also found that the ACA has been instrumental in providing maternity benefits. 8.7 million women who purchased coverage on the individual market  have gained these crucial benefits. The ACA also requires plans to cover maternity-related preventive services, which help increase the likelihood of a healthy and safe delivery. With even an uncomplicated delivery costing tens of thousands of dollars, these new protections are helping curb the large expenses many women and families incur for hospital stays during pregnancy.

Today marks the last day of the Women’s Week of Action, celebrating the ACA’s accomplishments, and gearing up for the work we still have left ahead of us. The Affordable Care Act has given millions of women peace of mind for themselves and their families. And although many women have gained coverage since last year’s Open Enrollment, there are still millions of women who have yet to sign up and gain access to these crucial services.

This year’s Open Enrollment period ends on February 15. The deadline for February 1 coverage is January 15. Visit HealthCare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to find out more, and if you or someone you care about is in need of health insurance, do not wait. Get covered today. 

Valerie Jarrett is Senior Advisor to the President and Chair of the White House Council on Women and Girls.

A CWG report released yesterday delves into the inequities and distinct challenges facing women of color, while examining some of the efforts underway to close unfair gaps in educational outcomes, pay, career opportunity, health disparities, and more.

Since its inception, the CWG has focused on issues which disproportionately affect women of color. As part of this ongoing effort, the CWG is convening a Working Group to bring together policy staff from the White House and across the federal agencies, with advocates and experts from around the country. Together, this group will focus on issues including education, economic security, health, criminal and juvenile justice, violence, and research and data collection. By detailing both the progress we have made and the challenges that still remain, this report should serve both as a reminder of what is possible and as a call to action to do so much more.

Today, girls of color still perform lower on standardized tests than their white peers. They are more likely to be suspended from school or drop out. Women and girls of color face higher rates of poverty, receive lower wages for their work than their white peers, and are more likely to become involved in the criminal justice system.  

Women of color also face some of the highest rates of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and other serious conditions, while experiencing disproportionately high rates of domestic violence. And when women are the primary or sole breadwinners for nearly half of all households of color, these disparities do not just affect them, but their entire families and communities.

At the same time, this CWG report does highlight some significant bright spots. Between 1997 and 2013, we’ve seen a 258% increase for businesses owned by Black women, 180% for Hispanic women, 156% for Asian American women, and 108% for American Indian/Alaska Native women. Women of color have ascended to the upper ranks of our workplaces and board rooms across industries; teen pregnancy rates for girls of color have plummeted; and high school and college graduation rates have risen. These are important gains, not only for women of color, but for everyone. As these women flourish, their families are strengthened, jobs are created in their communities, local economies grow, and our entire country benefits.   

Still, gains such as these should not obscure the challenge ahead. Since taking office, President Obama has made it clear that ensuring equity and opportunity for the nation’s daughters would remain a paramount focus for his Administration. As the President has put it: "When women succeed, America succeeds."

Leaders across all levels of government, the private sector, and academia are in agreement that empowering all women, while understanding and addressing the unique challenges facing women of color, is a social, moral, and economic imperative. In a country that increasingly depends on the strength, creativity, and wisdom of our women -- it is in everyone’s best interest to ensure no one is left behind, and all women are in position to lead and succeed.

See what people are saying on Twitter about the report:

Girls of color face disproportionate barriers to success. @WhiteHouse's report works to turn them into opportunity: http://t.co/OpzHbbrJuY

— NWLC (@nwlc) November 12, 2014

When #WomenSucceed, America succeeds. See how President Obama is fighting to help women and girls of color → http://t.co/4xwyMtXvZN

— NationalActionNet (@NationalAction) November 12, 2014

Let's keep working to give all women the chance to realize her dreams → http://t.co/vyhsqb1n2a #WomenSucceed pic.twitter.com/DcU4SDzNqI

— Nancy Pelosi (@NancyPelosi) November 12, 2014

"We have to lift up programs that give meaningful opportunities" to the girls of color who want to be leaders, says @LDFJanel at @WhiteHouse

— NWLC (@nwlc) November 12, 2014

Read the @WhiteHouse's new report abt challenges & opportunities for women & girls of color: http://t.co/Unf3A8r3cD #WOC #WomenSucceed

— National Partnership (@NPWF) November 12, 2014

It's long-past time to close the earnings gap and ensure #EqualPay for women → http://t.co/0s8kpdT6t9 #WomenSucceed pic.twitter.com/jDzwa3r53j

— YWCA USA (@YWCAUSA) November 12, 2014

When #WomenSucceed, America succeeds! @BarackObama is fighting to help women & girls of color http://t.co/3derOod8Qd pic.twitter.com/4LTlXiSb4V

— Gwen Moore (@RepGwenMoore) November 12, 2014

@vj44 congrats on an amazing @WhiteHouse #WomenSucceed event Look fwd to working with u & Office of Intergovt Affairs pic.twitter.com/J3HHIRpjFx

— MurielBowser (@MurielBowser) November 12, 2014

MT @WhiteHouse: Let's keep fighting to give every woman the chance to realize her dreams. #EqualPay #WomenSucceed pic.twitter.com/7lyaxeXAvh

— Dina Titus (@repdinatitus) November 12, 2014

President Barack Obama holds a women's roundtable discussion prior to remarks on the economy at Rhode Island College in Providence, Rhode Island, Oct. 31, 2014. Labor Secretary Thomas Perez attends at right. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

Last week, in Providence, President Obama delivered remarks on the importance of empowering women and girls in our economy. “When women succeed, America succeeds, and we need leaders who understand that,” he told the audience at Rhode Island College (RIC).

But before delivering those remarks, I had the pleasure of joining the President and Labor Secretary Tom Perez, for a roundtable with the President of Rhode Island College, local woman business owners, working moms, and an RIC student to discuss what we need to do to ensure that 21st century workplaces meet the needs of our 21st century workforce -- which is increasingly being led by women.

We heard from Ann-Marie Harrington at that roundtable, the President of Embolden, an online communications strategy company, who discussed what her business is doing to allow greater flexibility for employees. She offers her employees paid paternal leave and the ability to telework if needed, and points out that these policies have increased productivity. She supported Rhode Island’s new paid leave law, and helped communicate the need for a marketplace that more adequately adjusts to the needs of 21st century workers and families -- one that allows workers to flourish in both their roles as employees, and as parents.

Lisbeth Avalos, a junior at RIC, shared her story on Friday about the importance of mentorship. She was guided by her mentor toward a degree in bioengineering, which is a growth industry in great need of gender diversity. Lisbeth has now taken it upon herself to mentor younger students who may not otherwise consider careers in STEM.

Women make up nearly half of America’s workforce, and nationwide, women are earning more than half of America’s college and graduate degrees. This means the pipeline of America’s highly educated workers will be increasingly comprised of women.

But many of our workplaces have not caught up to that reality yet. Too many workplaces still have women facing unfair choices and outdated policies that hold them back. These policies are not only harmful to women in the workforce, but it also holds back their families, our communities, our businesses, and our entire economy. And as the President put it, “we have to do better – because women deserve better. Women deserve a day off to care for a sick child or sick parent without running into hardship.”

Rhode Island is actually one of just three states where paid family leave is the law of the land, and the President pointed out that more states should choose to follow their lead:

[W]ithout paid leave when a new baby arrives or an aging parent needs help, workers have to make painful decisions about whether they can afford to be there when their families need them the most. Many women can’t even get a paid day off to give birth to their child. It’s ridiculous. And dads should be able to be there, too. So let’s make this happen, for women and for men, and make our economy stronger.

Parents also need quality, affordable options for child care and early childhood development. In 31 states, decent child care costs more than in-state college tuition, which is a staggering and disqualifying reality facing millions of families. That’s why President Obama has set the goal of enrolling 6 million more children in high-quality preschool by the end of the decade to make America stronger.

We also discussed persistent wage gaps, and the important work being undertaken by businesses and a number of states around the country to raise the minimum wage.

The President underscored that “28 million Americans would benefit if we raised the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour,” and that “a majority of low-wage workers are women, and many have kids.” The hard truth facing many of these women is that someone working full-time on the minimum wage makes $14,500. If they’re a parent, that means they’re below the poverty line, and as the President made clear again on Friday: “No one who works full-time in America should have to raise their kids in poverty.”

Women in general are also still earning less than men, even when they’re doing the same work. And women of color face even greater wage gaps. As more and more women fill the role of primary breadwinners in more households, we cannot afford to pay them less. When we do -- entire families and communities suffer.

We also enjoyed hearing from Cheryl Snead, the CEO of Banneker, a defense contractor working on supply-chain and logistics out of Rhode Island. Cheryl pays her employees more than minimum wage and has a great recruitment and training program to attract women and students of color to the STEM fields. She provides paid leave, and has seen the positive impact in her company morale, productivity, and retention as her employees can rest assured that their family obligations are both valued and respected by their managers.

Thankfully, businesses both large and small are increasingly reflecting what we heard from Friday in Rhode Island; we must prioritize workplace flexibility, fair pay, affordable child care, paid leave and equality in our 21st century workplaces. Not only because it’s the right thing to do, but each of these companies is careful to underscore that it makes for good policy, higher productivity, and much greater return on staff investment.

Last week, in the New York Times DealBook, Tony Schwartz made the case for why more flexible workplace policies yield great benefits for both workers and companies, writing:

Working mothers I talk with consistently tell me their highest priorities are their children, their work, their husbands and their aging parents — and often in that order. They put care for themselves last on the list. Flexibility is critical if they’re going make themselves a higher priority. Meanwhile, companies need to make it matter less where and when people do their work, and focus instead on what value they create.

There is also the important component of loyalty to consider, as employees who feel supported and respected by their employers are much more likely to stay in a job longer, and go above and beyond in service to the supervisors and organization that backed them up when they needed it.

Two moms joined the President’s roundtable on Friday whose babies were born premature. They talked about the relief they felt when their employers gave them the flexibility they needed to care for their little ones, and manage the unique challenges they faced.

I often think back to a time while working for Mayor Richard Daley in Chicago, not long after having been promoted to serve as his Commissioner of Planning and Development. The Mayor had called a meeting with his cabinet and Susan Sher, who was the corporation counsel at the time, one of my dearest friends, and like me, a single mom. The meeting stretched toward the evening hours, and Susan and I found ourselves checking our watches and exchanging nervous glances. It wasn’t long before Mayor Daley interrupted the meeting to bluntly ask if we had somewhere more important we needed to be.

Unsure how to respond, I paused briefly before blurting out: "Susan and I both have second graders; their Halloween Parade starts in 20 minutes -- and it is 25 minutes away." The whole room braced for his response. But without a moment of hesitation, the Mayor leaned forward and replied, “Well then what are you doing here? You better get moving."

Working families represent the backbone of this country, and our businesses drive our economy. The American story is embedded in the strength of women like those described Friday by the President. He spoke about the women who are our quiet heroes in this country, “studying for finals after working a full shift, desperately searching for child care when the babysitter cancels at the last minute, using up every penny of their savings so they can afford to stay home with their new baby.”

These are the challenges facing our moms, our sisters, our daughters, and our coworkers, and we all must do more to back them up. The report released on Friday by the White House Council of Economic Advisers provides important perspective on the work that lies ahead, and will hopefully lay further groundwork for businesses and government at all levels to take action on behalf of women and working families.

You should also read:

• Six Quotes to Read: The President's Remarks in Providence
• New Report: Eleven Facts About American Families and Work
• Charts: Women's Participation in Education and the Workforce
• Share Why These Issues Are Personal for You:

In his time in office, President Obama has preserved more than 3 million acres of public land, and he’s not done yet. Natural treasures like the San Gabriel Mountains are not only remarkably beautiful, as they frame the Los Angeles Skyline, but with this new designation, they will bring even more tangible benefits to the 15 million people who live in their shadow. Tourism in the area will be strengthened, as will local businesses as hikers, bikers, outdoor adventurists, and nature lovers make their way to enjoy all 346,177 acres receiving the President’s new designation. 

The President remains committed to respecting and reflecting our nation’s diversity in the monuments and precious lands we preserve, while ensuring access to parkland, monuments, historical landmarks, and majestic landscapes for Americans of all backgrounds to relish. 

Especially as young people spend more and more time in front of screens and experiencing the world through technology, it is becoming even more critical to ensure our children have access to outdoor space to breathe in fresh air, stay active, and experience the fishing, camping, and hiking which are central to so many Americans’ most special childhood memories. 

A National Recreation and Park Association study showed that consistent interaction with nature brings with it a variety of health benefits, including lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and reduced stress. And areas that have parks within walking distance have obesity rates that are 20% lower than areas without them. Our parks system is not only an investment in protecting our nation’s natural beauty, it’s an investment in our long-term health, and the vitality of our communities.

Equally as important as keeping American families and our young people connected to nature is the value of keeping them connected to our history. The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument in Maryland reminds us of the sacrifice and courage at the core of our American spirit. The César E. Chávez National Monument in Keene, California provides a permanent platform to honor one of this country’s most passionate, collaborative, and effective champions for the rights of farmworkers and all people striving for fair wages and humane working conditions. And even written into the stone face of the San Gabriel Mountains, not far from where the President will speak today, you can still find the ancient expressions of America’s first people in gorgeous Native American rock art. 

It’s critical that we stay connected to the land, and to the stories that define our national narrative. Today’s designation will once again demonstrate the impact of meaningful conservation for communities across the country.

Click here to view the fact sheet on today’s designation, and stay tuned for remarks from the President at 3:40 p.m. EDT, which can be viewed at WhiteHouse.gov/live.