NEW ORLEANS – Acting on a motion put forward by Councilmember Jared C. Brossett, the New Orleans City Council today adopted a resolution commemorating August 14, 2015 as the 80th anniversary of the signing of the Social Security Act. Serving as crucial monthly aid and financial protection for millions of elderly and disabled Americans, the Social Security Act was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935. In the eighty years since, the program has lifted millions of Americans out of poverty and served as a sacred compact with successive generations of our citizens.
In adopting their resolution, the New Orleans City Council recognized the historic anniversary and joined the Social Security Administration in celebrating decades of success, while looking forward to building for the future. They acknowledged and commended the program for its contributions to the health and welfare of the people of the city, and the country as a whole.
“The Social Security program stands as an example of success. Before the program existed, half of American seniors lived in poverty. Social Security has cut that figure to ten percent,” said Councilmember Brossett. “There’s always more to be done, but it’s important to recognize the great work that has been accomplished by Americans working together.”
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