Congressman Butterfield’s roots in Wilson, N.C. taught him the values of hard work and responsibility. His father, Dr. G. K. Butterfield Sr., was a respected dentist and elected official. Dr. Butterfield graduated from Meharry Dental College and practiced dentistry for 50 years in the poor, segregated community of East Wilson. Many of his patients had never received dental services because they were unable to afford care. However, Dr. Butterfield did not turn anyone away because they were unable to pay. To him, access to care was a right for everyone, not a privilege for the few.
Congressman Butterfield’s mother, Addie, was passionate about education. She taught elementary school for 48 years in some of the poorest communities in North Carolina. Mrs. Butterfield was keenly focused on making sure her students learned to read--a right that was denied to many Blacks in the South.
Financial stability and social justice are deeply interconnected. Today, this factor remains as true as ever. However, families have to work harder and harder to realize their American dream.
Our nation and workforce are strongest when all individuals- regardless of race or ethnicity, location, or family wealth- have the opportunity to work hard and build a productive life.
We need a plan that creates more high-paying jobs and provides the support needed for workers to have the opportunity to get ahead. And we need to help every family get ahead so they can not only make ends meet, but earn enough to save for a secure retirement.
The Jobs and Justice Agenda calls for a recommitment to our founding principles of the American Dream, working to reverse years of inequality and injustice, and leveling the playing field for all.