We need to continue to open pathways for all neighbors to have family-sustaining careers. All work has dignity. Work is the foundation of the pursuit of happiness. When it comes down to it, the inequity in our society is based on the value of how we each earn our living. College, housing and security are vastly improved with the employment it affords.
If you really want to help, you can volunteer to mentor neighbors into, and sustain employment. Help provide avenues to young people so they are employed early in life to develop those skills necessary to be successful long-term.
I conclude with another story about the student who lost her home in the rioting on Tuesday. This student is a child of undocumented immigrant neighbors who moved here so that she and her siblings could have a better opportunity (Same as my great, great, great grandfather). For the three weeks prior to George Floyd being killed, I personally worked with her as we attempted to get her a bank account. We tried four institutions. All of the bankers were kind, but we were unsuccessful.
Did you know that a 17 year old student who works 32 hours a week to pay for her family’s rent and other costs (because her parents lost their jobs) still cannot get a bank account? This means she continues to cash her paycheck at a “money transfer company” and pays them twice; once to cash her check and then to send a check to her landlord. This is unjust. A bank account is a sign of stability, belonging and hope. Without it, so many doors remain closed.
Her place of work was looted. Her family home was burned to the ground. Early this morning, she sent me an email asking if I could help get the word out about her classmates who were displaced.
If I could be so fortunate to be as good a person as this student.
Join us in working to live the greatest commandment each day to ensure that ALL of our neighbors enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
May God inspire us all to correct these systemic injustices!
If you have any questions or solutions, please reach out! There is no place I'd rather be and no group of people I'd rather share this mission with!
In peace,
Jeb Myers
President