As I watch a White House concert honoring the music of the Civil Rights Movement, I am reminded of the stories I have heard from Consumer Rights Coalition members who feel they have been shut out our financial system.
The basic principles of the Civil Rights Movement are full inclusion and equal opportunity for all. Under these principles, we should all have access to financial services that allow us to provide for our families and maintain our households. For some this is the first step towards the American Dream; for others it simply allows us to remain independent and maintain our modest lifestyles with dignity.
Thomas Jefferson said, “That government is best which governs least.” When dealing with economic regulation, the same should apply. Americans deserve real choices and access to a variety of financial services when deciding how to make ends meet or handle an unexpected emergency. Government regulation should protect the public interest without eliminating or limiting the financial service options available to hard working Americans.
Now, much like the time of the Civil Rights Movement, participation and involvement in our legislative system is critical. We need to speak out to ensure everyone has opportunities for growth and self sustainability so that we cannot only survive, but prosper.
