Blog: The Duckworth Diary August 23, 2013

Statement

Dear Neighbors,

I had another busy week during the August work period meeting with my constituents. It is encouraging to see how many of my neighbors are interested in seeing common sense solutions to our nation's challenges.

I am truly amazed by the creativity and innovation I've seen from the 8th District's businesses and workers. This week, I visited Xeikon America in Itasca and Sears Holding Corporation in Hoffman Estates. Xeikon is an innovator in digital-printing technology. I was truly impressed with their work and it was a pleasure to speak with their employees. At Sears, I spoke to more than 100 employees about leadership and overcoming adversity in the workplace.

On Monday, I held a roundtable in Arlington Heights with 15 organizations from our community that are working to combat hunger to discuss potential cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/food stamps. We had an extensive conversation about their work and the challenges they face in caring for those in need. When I was a teenager, my family went on food stamps after my father lost his job so I know the difference that these organizations and SNAP can make. I made it clear that I will continue to work to protect our most vulnerable when I return to Washington.

I am also inspired by how committed our community is to service. On Tuesday I spoke to members of AmeriCorps and Senior Corps at the North Central National Service Conference about how they are making a difference in the lives of so many. I was also happy to help honor 10 Veterans who have continued their mission of service in their civilian lives with the Presidential Volunteer Service Award.

At a Veterans Congress at Your Corner in Elgin on Wednesday, I met with Veterans who have given so much to our country. I invited the Director of the Hines VA to attend and answer questions for the Veterans. We all have a responsibility to make sure that they have a chance to succeed when they come home and I have made this is a priority in my work in Washington.

On Thursday in Rolling Meadows, I hosted a panel on the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education. The panel included representatives from Harper College, Northwestern University, Motorola Solutions, Northrop Grumman, the Girl Scouts and local schools. I was encouraged to see leaders in education, business and government show their commitment to providing future generations with the tools they need to compete in a global economy.

Finally, I held an event with Congressman Brad Schneider and Congressman Bill Foster on Thursday to speak about the economic importance of immigration reform. At the Illinois chamber of commerce, business owners and leaders in our community made it clear that immigration reform will allow businesses to grow and create jobs. The overwhelming majority of Americans are in favor of comprehensive immigration reform and I will be working to get immigration reform passed when I go back to Washington.

I hope you had a great week!

Sincerely,
Congresswoman Duckworth

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