Advocates for children say Connecticut needs to confront the state’s rising income inequality with a “sweeping, antiracist” program.
A report released Wednesday by Connecticut Voices for Children says racial discrimination and loss of worker power are defining features of the state’s economy.
Emily Bryne heads the group. She said there needs change in order for all races to achieve the American dream.
“It’s clear that with every passing day, this dream becomes further out of reach for some Connecticut families," Bryne said. "The state has reached some of the highest levels of income inequality during a time of near unprecedented income inequality. We’re living through a global pandemic, we’re on the verge of an economic depression…”
She said Connecticut has a regressive tax system that contributes to wage inequality, especially among minority communities. The report shows the state’s income disparities to be larger than the U.S. as a whole.
The group urges state lawmakers to increase the minimum wage, implement a progressive tax system, and find ways to make reparations to Black Americans.