Blumenauer, Wyden and Merkley Celebrate Social Security's 80th Anniversary, Call for Protection of Disability Benefits

Portland, OR – Today, Representative Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-03), Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) celebrated the 80th anniversary of Social Security with Acting Commissioner of Social Security Carolyn W. Colvin and highlighted the importance of protecting the program, including protecting disability benefits from cuts.
 
The lawmakers and Commissioner cut an 80th anniversary cake and served it to seniors at the Urban League of Portland Senior Center during lunch. They were also joined by President and CEO of Urban League of Portland Nkenge Harmon Johnson, Meals on Wheels People Executive Director Suzanne Washington, and other members of the community.
 
“The Social Security system benefits all Americans, including one in five Oregonians. It is one of the most important social programs in the history of our nation,” said Representative Blumenauer. “On this anniversary, I’m committed to maintaining and strengthening this program for our seniors, people with disabilities, and to ensure our promise for future generations to come.”
 
“Most of us have never lived in a world without the promise of Social Security, which is fortunately and safely in place if the worst happens for us and our families,” Senator Wyden said. “Put simply on the 80th birthday of this landmark program, Social Security has stood the test of time providing protection to countless Americans against poverty in their old age.”
 
“For 80 years Social Security has brought hope to some of our most vulnerable citizens, acting as a safety net and giving elderly Americans the income security the need and deserve,” said Senator Merkley. “But now Republicans in Congress are attempting to dismantle the Social Security disability fund for those Americans who need it most. I’m committed to protecting Social Security as a reliable income source for seniors, workers who develop disabilities and dependents. Now is the time we should be working to strengthen Social Security not making it harder for those Oregonians most in need.”
 
“As Social Security celebrates its 80th Anniversary, we remain the underpinning of economic security of this country, and will continue to be a strong foundation for the next 80 years and beyond,” Acting Commissioner Colvin said.  “Social Security is the most successful domestic program in America’s history.  Providing outstanding customer service to the public has been a cornerstone of our agency’s mission since its beginning continuing into the future.”