Grassroots Organizations Gather with Presidential Candidates to Focus on Reinvesting in Our Communities

Putting Families First Presidential Forum to shine spotlight on racial, climate, & economic justice issues in the heartland

DES MOINES, IA – On Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016, the Center for Community Change Action (CCCAction) and the Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement Action Fund (CCI AF), in partnership with The Nation, will be holding the Putting Families First Presidential Forum with Democratic presidential candidates Bernie Sanders and Martin O’Malley focusing on policies regarding investing in the people and places who have been left behind during our country’s recovery.

“We are honored to participate in the forum for a discussion of what Sen. Sanders likes to call ‘family values’ — paid family leave, healthcare for all, equal pay for equal work, and a living wage,” said Bernie 2016 Iowa state director Robert Becker. “This forum will also amplify the urgent need to address climate change and Bernie’s strong opposition to the Bakken crude oil pipeline that, if approved, would cut through Iowa.”

“Families are vital to the success of our nation, yet 70% of us are working harder but earning the same or less than we were 12 years ago. We need new leadership, to build on the progress President Obama has made in creating jobs, and get wages rising for all Iowans,” said Gov. Martin O’Malley. “I bring a new perspective and record of bringing people together to get things done, so that together we can make college debt-free option, pass paid family leave, and rein in the bad actors on Wall Street to protect Main Street. I look forward to discussing these ideas and more on how to Rebuild the American Dream at the Iowa forum.”

“CCCAction is pleased that Sen. Sanders and Gov. O’Malley will be present to speak about economic issues that are extremely important to Americans,” said CCCAction Executive Director Deepak Bhargava. “CCCAction is deeply invested in helping low-income communities gain good jobs with good wages so residents can thrive.”

“We look forward to sharing the real stories of everyday folks across Iowa and the heartland with these candidates.” said Barb Kalbach, 4th generation family farmer, nurse, and CCI Action Board President. “And by holding this forum less than a month before the Iowa caucuses, we expect the candidates to support the real solutions we will be laying out.”

WHAT: Governor Martin O’Malley, Senator Bernie Sanders, grassroots organizations from around the Midwest will discuss how to help our communities who were left behind in the economic recovery

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016. Forum to start at approximately 1:30 PM.

WHERE: First Christian Church, 2500 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA

REGISTER HERE!

RSVP for reporters: Putting Families First Presidential Forum Media Registration