Recently, we were doing some research in the archived editions of the NASW News.  We came across a copy of this telegram sent from NASW to President Kennedy on May 25, 1962:

“The National Association of Social Workers through its Board of Directors meeting today commends the president for your personal leadership in taking the case for health care for the elderly through social security directly to the voters.  We believe the American people will accept your word that the program embodied in the King-Anderson bill is not a sinister effort to bring about socialized medicine but a natural step forward in the physical and social development of this country.  We believe it actually represents the minimal program which should be offered to meet the needs of the ill and aging and support its adoption without further amendment or change.  In many cities social workers have actively participated in the meetings and rallies to encourage its adoption. ” 

Unfortunately, President Kennedy did not live to see the measure enacted.  Over three years later, President Johnson signed the Medicare legislation into law on July 30, 1965. 

Today is the 45th anniversary of this momentous and popular government program.  NASW was there at the beginning and continues today to advocate for a strong and quality Medicare system.

This week Congress and the White House commemorated the 20th anniversary of passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which makes it easier for people with disabilities to gain access to jobs and public places. NASW and other ADA supporters were invited by Speaker Pelosi to a luncheon in Statuary Hall honoring the occasion followed by guests moving to the House gallery to watch a floor colloquies on the value of the law.

Rep. Jim Langevin, (D-R.I.) who is quadriplegic, took ceremonial responsibility to preside over the House floor. In luncheon comments to NASW and other ADA supporters, Speaker Pelosi lauded many changes over the last 20 years that have made public spaces and work more accessible to the disabled. NASW and other guests of the Speaker were invited to the House gallery to watch as a new mechanical lift in the speaker’s rostrum allowed the wheelchair-bound Langevin to preside over speeches and votes.