Why it matters to all of us

Our economy should work for all of us, not just the wealthy few. Working people built this country, and our nation’s economic success depends on us, not just on corporations. But all too often, the rewards are unequally divided, and we get the short end of the stick. In fact, the inequality between the wealthiest 10 percent of the country and the rest of us is growing larger all the time.

That has to change.

What we’ve done and where we’re headed

Working America and its members fight for progressive policies that bring us respect and fairness at work — and that rein in Wall Street’s greed. That means we need corporations that invest in us as part of the workforce — that provide living wages; health coverage, pensions, and paid sick days and family leave; and a safe environment, free from harassment and intimidation.

We’re also demanding the changes we need to benefit Main Street, not just Wall Street. We pay our fair share of taxes, and corporations should do the same. Rather than taking jobs overseas, they need to bring their profits home to build our bridges and highways and sustain our public schools and institutions. Through our strength in numbers, we hold politicians accountable when they protect big banks and big corporations over working people.

A few years ago, we undertook a campaign where members told Wall Street, “We are not your ATM.” We can’t afford to have them bulk up their profits at our expense. In the coming year, we will mobilize for corporations to pay their fair share of taxes and to underwrite good jobs in our communities.