Ahead Quote by Thomas Perez
“People who work full-time in America should not have to live in poverty - simple as that. Too many jobs don't pay enough to get by, let alone get ahead. Too many people are finding the rungs on the ladder of opportunity further and further apart.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks at the National Urban League Conference, 2015
Economic inequality persists when wages lag behind living costs, limiting social mobility and deepening poverty.
In simple terms: Low wages keep people poor despite full-time work.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for living wages and stronger labor policies.
Themes
economic inequality
living wages
social mobility
labor rights
policy reform
Mood
concerned
determined
hopeful
Type
political
advocacy
social commentary
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- legislative hearings
- community organizing
- union negotiations
Key Concepts
minimum wage
income disparity
wealth gap
employment standards
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance fair wages with economic growth?
- What policies best close the income gap?
A Different Perspective
Higher wages may increase business costs and affect hiring.
