Reflecting on this week & remembering what's important
DECEMBER 24, 2020 -- Today, as millions of Americans are preparing to celebrate the Christmas holiday, it's clear this one will be unlike any other in modern history. While some of us are separated and quarantined, others are experiencing the profound loss of loved ones, jobs, and the sense of normalcy we once enjoyed. While our year has been filled with uncertainty, I feel comfort in knowing that the meaning of Christmas will never change.
The Christmas story is ultimately one about hope for a better tomorrow. It's a story that reminds us of our moral responsibility to care for those in need, including the sick, hungry, and homeless. It's a reminder of our charge to treat others the way we want to be treated. And it reflects basic values that are shared by people of many faiths.
This week, I, along with my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives, made good on our promise to fight for families and American values. Democrats in the House led the effort to provide immediate and critical aid to workers, families, schools, and businesses as part of a $900 billion COVID-19 relief package. This legislative package will help put money in the pockets of Americans, help families keep food on their tables, and keep a roof over their heads. Even today as House Republicans block our efforts to provide $2,000 direct payments to struggling Americans (as recently requested by President Trump), Democrats remain committed to the fight for lives and livelihoods.
While the COVID-19 relief package gathered much attention this week, it did not pass alone. The $1.4 trillion omnibus package set spending and policy priorities for the federal government through the next fiscal year and beyond. The omnibus package secures critical funding to help meet the needs of the families in Maryland's 7th Congressional District. It includes provisions to promote renewable energy, curb gun violence, expand healthcare, create jobs, make quality education accessible, and mandate police accountability.
Our work is far from over, but I believe the progress we made this week will give us the runway we need to accelerate economic growth under the Biden-Harris Administration. Below is just a snapshot of the type of aid included in this important spending agreement.
For a more detailed breakdown of funding items impacting Maryland families, click here.
Whether you have just celebrated a happy Hanukkah, getting ready to celebrate Christmas tomorrow, or wonderful Kwanzaa celebrations next week, I wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season.
Sincerely,
Kweisi Mfume
Member of Congress