Congresswoman Richardson Welcomes President Obama's Summer Jobs Initiative

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Laura Richardson welcomed President Obama's announcement that he proposes to provide nearly 180,000 work opportunities for disadvantaged young people between the ages of 16 and 24. With historically high unemployment rates hitting African Americans and Latinos in particular, a high impact summer jobs program has become a major focal point for the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), to which the Congresswoman belongs.

"We went to the White House and discussed the critical shortages of jobs in our communities with the President," said Congresswoman Richardson. "We advocated for a summer jobs program that would provide paid and voluntary opportunities to young people and build the skills necessary to live a successful life. The President's proposal helps to fill that need."

Over the summer, the CBC launched its For the People Jobs Initiative by hosting career fairs in major American cities and submitting over 50 job creation bills to Congress. Congresswoman Richardson, along with colleagues Congresswomen Maxine Waters and Karen Bass, hosted a jobs fair in Los Angeles that brought dozens of employers directly to thousands of applicants.

"This jobs program will benefit local economies and provide young people with the pride that comes with time well spent," said Congresswoman Richardson. "I remain committed to growing more opportunities for employment for all our citizens, and I look forward to working with the President as we promote jobs for the American people."

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