The fact that so many Americans are optimistic and involved despite tough times - that's the hidden news in Obama's first 100 days that holds such great promise for our country."

- Anna Burger, SEIU Secretary-Treasurer

SEIU Secretary-Treasurer Anna Burger released the following statement on the passage of President Barack Obama's first 100 days in office:

"President Obama has made it clear from day one that we will not be able to rebuild our economy stronger than it was without a greater voice, and greater prosperity, for American workers.

"That faith has inspired the kind of broad participation these past 100 days that's key to turning the promise of change into reality.

"Countless hours by SEIU members and other workers reaching out to our neighbors and co-workers helped pass an economic recovery bill that is putting people back to work. Writing letters to our Representatives and newspapers until our hands hurt helped pass a budget with a real down payment on health care. Continuing to call our Senators until we have their numbers memorized will restore the freedom to form unions so that workers, not just CEOs, can benefit from economic progress."

"The fact that so many Americans are optimistic and involved despite tough times - that's the hidden news in Obama's first 100 days that holds such great promise for our country."

Agenda for Working Families:

* Pass economic stimulus plan that includes balanced tax relief for working people and investments in jobs, education, healthcare, roads and bridges - DONE
* Pass SCHIP so more children have the healthcare they need - DONE
* Strengthen the voice of Americans to fight discrimination with the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act - DONE
* Pass a budget that puts a real down-payment toward guaranteeing the quality, affordable healthcare Americans deserve - DONE
* Provide a significant investment in green jobs as a pathway to a strong middle class and a sustainable future - DONE
* Fill Cabinet positions with nominees that working families can count on to stand up and fight for them - Secretary Hilda Solis confirmed to Department of Labor; Governor Kathleen Sebelius awaiting final confirmation as Health and Human Services Secretary.
* Provide a pathway to legal status for young people who were brought to the U.S. as undocumented immigrant children - DREAM Act introduced March 26
* Give workers a choice, free from intimidation and harassment, to bargain for job security, better wages and health care - Employee Free Choice Act introduced March 10
* Keep an open dialogue with labor, business, community, faith and constituent leaders with top White House officials - Multiple roundtables, town halls, White House Forum on Health Reform, Middle Class Task Force, White House Fiscal Responsibility Summit

"

###