Circles USA’s National Big View Team, composed of a cross section of champions from chapters across the nation, has updated our 2020 Big View Policy Platform, refreshing our language and our focus on the core issues facing Circles participants.
Individuals and families who are working hard, yet struggling to make ends meet, require tools and support to overcome systemic barriers and achieve long-term economic stability. Circles USA knows that whole communities thrive when all people have access to the essential resources and support that lead to upward economic mobility.
Originally authored by board member Joan Kuriansky, our policy platform is built to address the challenges faced by low-income, working individuals and families who are earning just enough to disqualify them from many public benefits yet far too little to meet their basic needs. People experiencing poverty are also least likely to engage in the democratic process and most likely to be marginalized by systemic oppression.
These families are navigating a precarious financial landscape in an uncoordinated and non-responsive system that discounts their voice and value; however, their success is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty in our communities.
Our approach blends individual empowerment with community-driven strategies, uniquely positioning us to advocate for systemic changes that create sustainable pathways out of poverty.
Enhanced core issues include:
Increasing Economic Stability: Policies that support fair wages and benefits, affordable housing, food security, reliable public transportation, and affordable childcare are essential to create a foundation for economic stability.
Smoothing Benefit Cliffs: Circles USA emphasizes the importance of policy reforms that smooth the transition off public benefits, allowing time to build stability as incomes increase.
Building Social Capital: Many Circles participants lack the support systems and professional networks that are key to financial independence. Policies fostering mentorship programs, community partnerships, and equitable access to resources can fill this gap.
Increasing Health, Wellness, and Family Supports: Poverty is trauma and disproportionately impacts physical and mental health. Affordable healthcare, expanded Medicaid, access to quality mental healthcare, paid family and medical leave, and robust child and elder-care options support the essential wellbeing necessary for economic security.
Supporting Education and Workforce Development: Economic mobility requires accessible pathways to higher education, vocational training, and career advancement. Policies that invest in workforce development directly benefit Circles participants who are working hard to advance.
Elevating Equity and Democracy: Circles USA strives to see each issue through an equity lens and advocate for full access and inclusion to all aspects that lead to the American Dream. We also encourage full participation in and a deepened understanding of the democratic processes that affect all of our lives directly.
Circles USA’s policy platform champions solutions that align with the lived experiences of our community members. By focusing on long-term strategies for financial stability and community connection, we support families and individuals to break free from poverty and thrive in their communities.
We call on policymakers, community leaders, and partner organizations to join us in addressing the root causes of poverty and advancing systemic change. Together, we can create a society where each person has the opportunity, resources, and support to succeed—one family, one community at a time.
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