Norman Helps Seniors Launch Senior Outrage Coalition (SOC)

On February 7, Norman helped launch the Senior Outrage Coalition. Below is his statement that he made at the press conference.

Every once in a while, there comes a time when concerned citizens need to stand up, speak out and act in opposition to perceived injustice and unfairness.

Every once in a while, there comes a time when concerned citizens need to say enough to government insensitivity, disrespect and inefficiency.

And every once in a while, there comes a time when concerned citizens need to express their outrage at the complacency of the status quo.

This is such a time.

So, we have come together across racial, geographic and class lines to launch th the Senior Outrage Coalition (SOC) to promote Senior Power.

Seniors, who make up 1/7th of New York City, should no longer allow elected officials and government technocrats to make draconian budget cuts and policy decisions that affect their lives negatively. Seniors all across the city and state will organize and put government officials on notice — that we could, we vote and we will hold people accountable if they go along with the proposed cuts to senior programs.

We call for a new climate of involvement and of respect and support for Seniors. Nothing less will suffice.

In these difficult economic times, political leadership is needed. Uniform cuts to government agencies and programs is neither thoughtful nor humane. The challenge is not to cut funds indiscriminately but to be thoughtful and creative. Seniors, especially the 1/3rd that are elderly and poor, cannot accept cuts to Senior Centers, or nutritious and home-delivered meals programs, Alzheimer programs, Access-a-Ride, prescription drug programs and many other vital services.

SOC has been formed to encourage Seniors to play a greater role in the decision making process affecting their lives. The time is now to stand up and be counted. The time is now to act.