FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Cathy Sherwin (314) 452-2179

In Congressional Offices in Six Cities Across Michigan, Coalition of Jobless Workers, Faith Leaders, Community Advocates, Students and Seniors Join for Prayer Actions

Urge Representatives to Extend Unemployment Insurance Before 66,700 Michigan Workers Lose Benefits December 31

With nearly 70,000 Michigan families likely to lose unemployment benefits in early 2012, workers, community advocates and faith leaders joined jobless workers across the state at congressional district offices. From Marquette to Lansing, Shelby Township to Grand Rapids, Muskegon and Jackson, Michiganders called upon their elected officials to take immediate action so that families won't lose their unemployment lifeline and communities won't suffer the devastating financial impact. Extended unemployment benefits are set to expire December 31 unless Congress acts.

At each congressional office, constituents including faith leaders, jobless workers and other advocates led prayer and speaking program highlighting the stories of jobless Michigan workers and urging a vote to reauthorize unemployment insurance. At the event in Shelby Township, Pastor Ben Sandin prayed with the delegation after speaking out at Rep. Miller's office. “Our elected leaders have a moral obligation to take immediate action on the unemployment crisis in our community. The impact has been devastating. We're counting on Rep. Miller to put aside partisan politics and stop over 66,000 Michigan workers from losing their lifeline."

Speaking at the event at Rep. Amash's office, Michael Tuffelmire talked about how the jobs crisis has impacted his family and the families of other veterans. "Unemployment insurance is the only lifeline for so many families going through these tough times, and I'm counting on Rep. Amash to stand up for people that are looking for work. Until there are enough jobs here in Michigan, we're counting on Congress."

"Extending unemployment insurance not only helps those in need, it also just makes sense," said Karla Swift, Michigan AFL-CIO President. "Unemployment insurance doesn't replace a middle class paycheck, but it is a lifesaver for families in crisis trying to stay in their homes. These critical benefits are also important for businesses struggling in this tough economy, particularly small local businesses like grocery stores and other retailers. Without an extension, Michigan businesses will lose millions every week--dollars that are helping to get our economy back on track."


For more information and to hear stories from jobless Michigan workers, http://uistories.aflcio.org/mi


###