Seniors play an important, but all too often overlooked, role in our society.  This becomes especially problematic when Members of Congress are developing legislation that directly impacts our lives, pocketbooks, and health.  Recently TSCL had an opportunity to convince some allies in Congress that seniors deserve a better understanding of their needs, and special recognition.

Representative Charles Gonzalez (TX) agreed that something should be done to recognize and honor seniors.  He introduced "Honor Our Nation’s Seniors," H. Res. 874, and was immediately joined by Congressman Walter Jones (NC) as an original co-sponsor.  Prompted by a desire that seniors should be treated with the dignity and respect due to the "Greatest Generation," Representative Gonzalez drafted the resolution to help Congress keep seniors in mind when considering legislation that will profoundly affect them in years to come.

"Our seniors fought and sacrificed during some of our nation’s darkest hours, their fortitude and hard work should not go unrecognized.  It is imperative that we remember the individuals that our actions will impact as we consider issues such as Medicare, Social Security, veteran’s benefits, housing and healthcare," said Congressman Gonzalez. 

"We must always work to ensure that the needs of our seniors, who are often the most vulnerable members of society, do not get overlooked," said Congressman Jones.

Congressman Gonzalez also paid tribute to TSCL in his letter announcing the legislation to fellow Members of Congress by saying, "we are pleased that this resolution has garnered the initial support of the over 1 million nationwide members of TREA Senior Citizens League."  As one of the largest nonpartisan seniors groups in the nation, we are thrilled to see the sacrifices made by our members, as well as all seniors, honored.  Whether we were defending our nation in wartime, growing food in Victory Gardens to make sure others could eat, or raising a family, it’s humbling to see our efforts recognized by the United States Congress. 

We commend Congressman Charles Gonzalez (TX) for introducing this resolution, and Reps. Walter Jones (NC), Bob Filner (CA), Michael McNulty (NY), Sherrod Brown (OH), Jerry Lewis (CA), Ed Case (HI), Corrine Brown (FL), G. K. Butterfield (NC), Steve Israel (NY), Timothy Murphy (PA) and Gil Gutknecht (MN) for joining it as original co-sponsors.

October 2006