Dear Neighbors:
This Thanksgiving, there is much for which to be grateful. History and current events are a stark reminder that we should not take our blessings for granted.
Work and wages are the foundation of a strong community. The Holiday shopping season begins this Black Friday and the average consumer is expected to spend in excess of $1,000 this holiday season.
This is an opportunity to invest in a more secure shared economic future, not just buy gifts. Think of what we can accomplish if we use that to support local businesses and American workers.
A few suggestions:
- Buy American–Holiday spending contributes billions of dollars a year to the trade deficit. Imagine what we could do if that money was spent domestically? UnionLabel.org has a comprehensive guide to products union-made in America.
- Shop Local–Locally owned stores generate much greater benefits for our local economy than national chains do. When you shop local, you are supporting your neighbors and not corporate executives and shareholders.
When we buy our gifts, let’s make sure we are also giving workers and families a fair shot and ensure Happy Holidays for years to come.
Sincerely,
Brian Pugh, Mayor