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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

MI commemorates 60-year legacy of Economic Opportunity Act

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Monday, August 19, 2024   

Michigan groups working for social justice are marking a milestone this week: the 60th anniversary of the Economic Opportunity Act.

The law is the landmark legislation spearheading President Lyndon B. Johnson's War on Poverty. Signed into law in 1964, it was an attempt to tackle poverty in the United States through a series of programs to improve access to health care, food and educational support initiatives.

Brian McGrain, executive director of Michigan Community Action, an organization birthed from the Economic Opportunity Act, shared what his members are doing to observe the 60th anniversary.

"All of the members are drawing attention within their own communities to the work they do, and I think that's what's most important," McGrain explained. "I think all of my members would say again, they are the local response to poverty. They are controlled by the local elected, local community members, local partners."

Community Action Agencies are located in 99% of American counties. They have 1,000 local organizations, most of which are nonprofit and some are units of local government.

Community Action programs, such as Head Start, provide essential early education and nutrition to children of low-income families. The Job Corps gives vocational training to young adults, while VISTA mobilizes volunteers in anti-poverty initiatives across the nation.

Denise Harlow, CEO of the National Community Action Partnership, described the strategy as "person-centered," placing individuals and families at the core of their executive board.

"A third of the board are persons who are democratically selected from low-income communities, because all communities deserve to have a voice in their future," Harlow emphasized.

Harlow added in the 60th year of the Economic Opportunity Act, they are highlighting the effects of what Community Action agencies and those involved with them have been able to accomplish.

Disclosure: The National Community Action Partnership contributes to our fund for reporting on Housing/Homelessness, Hunger/Food/Nutrition, Poverty Issues, and Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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