In Perspective
“A chicken in every pot and a car in every garage.”
When at the age of 7, and invited into the sanctuary of my grandmother’s bedroom, two elegantly framed portraits were displayed on the east wall. One portrait was that of Pope Pius XII and the other portrait was Franklin Delano Roosevelt, then President of the United States.
I had acquired a certainty for the purpose why Pope Pius XII was so commemorated having attended Catholic elementary. I was uncertain about President Roosevelt’s portrait and as is my nature, I inquired.
Grandmother confirmed he was the man we listen to on the radio giving his fireside chats. More importantly, my grandmother held Mr. Roosevelt in high esteem because of his advocacy of the “Second Bill of Rights,” which he presented in his State of the Union Address on January 11, 1944. President Roosevelt argued the “political rights” guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights had proven inadequate to protect and assure workers equality in the pursuit of happiness.
The remedy Mr. Roosevelt advocated was an “Economic Bill of Rights” which would guarantee every American the following:
• Employment, with a living wage
• Freedom from unfair competition and monopolies
• Housing
• Medical Care
• Education
• Social Security Retirement
That visit to my grandmother’s room was some 66 years past. President Roosevelt’s “Economic Bill of Rights” was broadcasted the year before and, at the time, it was considered futuristic, extraordinarily progressive.
I totally understand my grandmother’s reverence of President Roosevelt, especially today when so many Americans are beneficiaries of his foresight and what he accomplished. Yet this matter is again at the forefront of our concerns today.
I would appreciate hearing from you concerning your concerns on this matter. You may find President Roosevelt’s January 11, 1944, State of the Union Message to Congress at http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu/archives/address_text.html And you may e-mail me at Jim@local695.com Keep apprised, best wishes.
Fraternally,
James A. Osburn, CAS
Business Representative
Executive Director