Liberty

To the editor:

I believe that we should care for our neighbors. It is a tenet of many religions.

Yet, today we are seeing daily instructions from the Oval Office that do not take into consideration the livelihood and safety of many Americans.

It is time to look very carefully at the proposed federal budget and ask ourselves if this will be good for our neighbors. The proposed cuts up to $ 2.5 trillion may include Medicaid/Affordable Care Act, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Federal Rental Assistance and Housing Programs, and Social Security and Disability Benefits.  

Many Americans – seniors, people with disabilities, and children – use these programs or have paid into these programs, for daily sustenance and health.  Just think what their lives might be like if the proposed federal budget is approved: ill people unable to get medical help, seniors and children going hungry, homeless living in tents/shacks outside towns and cities, and people unable to pay rent and buy essentials.    

We are at a crossroads. The proposed federal budget cuts will hurt our neighbors, to be sure.

The very sad part is that these proposed federal budget cuts are to fund $4.7 to $5.5 trillion in tax cuts to the super-rich and to wealthy corporations.  If you care about your neighbors, this makes no sense at all.  This is not Robin Hood – taking from the rich and giving to the poor. This is the opposite – taking from our neighbors and giving to the very rich.

It is time to speak up.  Make your voice heard in Washington D.C. in opposition to the proposed federal budget and in favor of your neighbors.  Call Congressman Josh Riley (202-225-5441), 

Senator Kirstin Gillibrand (202-224-4451), and Senator Chuck Schumer (202-224-6542).