Fix The Debt

The Fix the Debt Campaign today convened the Common Ground Summit in Washington, DC bringing together a diverse group of nearly 100 leaders from 80 organizations in an open dialogue around the national debt. Not only were all points in the political spectrum – left, right and center – represented, but all corners of our society had a seat at the table as well, including groups representing academia, gay rights, youth, older Americans, the disabled, the disadvantaged, and multicultural interests, as well as community, faith-based, health, research, charitable, and small business associations.

Organizations participating in the summit included Malaria No More, Easter Seals, National Puerto Rican Coalition, United Way, National Campus Leadership Council, Concerned Veterans of America, National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Share Our Strength, Young Invincibles, LULAC, Bread for the World, the National Small Business Association, the National Urban League, Catholic Charities, and Women Impacting Public Policy. The gathering underscored the fact that the mounting national debt affects us all and that we all must be a part of the solution. As Clinton Administration Office of Management and Budget Director Alice Rivlin said in a statement:

Fixing the mounting national debt – which has become the largest issue facing the country today – will require buy-in from every sector of society. And today’s event made clear that people from all kinds of backgrounds are eager to get involved. We may not all agree on the specifics, but by compromising and working together we’re finding middle ground that will set the framework for the kind of comprehensive budget reform we need.

Fix the Debt will soon release findings highlighting areas of broad agreement among participants in today’s event.

We are leading a national dialogue on the debt and want to hear your voice too. Contribute to the dialogue here.

Update: Watch a brief video montage of the event here.