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Over 3,000 Business Leaders Join Deputy Secretary Don Graves and NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas in Virtual Discussion on Administration’s Build Back Better Agenda

 

Earlier today, Deputy Secretary Don Graves and Isiah Thomas, NBA hall of famer and CEO of Isiah International, hosted a virtual briefing with over 3,000 business leaders to break down the importance of passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework and to address how the American Jobs Plan will benefit small businesses across the country. The event was hosted by the Public Private Strategies Institute (PPSI).

To begin the discussion, Deputy Secretary Graves praised President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, which has allowed more Americans to be vaccinated and is getting the economy back on track, but stressed the need to now focus on building long-term growth for generations to come.

“Right now, we need action on the American Jobs Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework to create millions of good-paying jobs, rebuild our country’s infrastructure, and position the United States to out-compete on the global stage,” Deputy Secretary Graves told the group.

Isiah Thomas stressed that he is a small business owner who has been impacted by COVID-19 and asked Deputy Secretary Graves how the President’s Build Back Better agenda will help both businesses and families.

“When we talk about infrastructure and the jobs plan, we are talking about people, not just about roads, bridges and tunnels.” Thomas said. “How does the President’s plan impact families, those seated around at the kitchen table, moms and dads that want to go back to work?”

“There are millions of Americans that want to work but lack access to affordable care for their children, a disabled family member or an aging parent,” said Graves. “The American Jobs Plan will create a care infrastructure and provide Americans with access to the care and support they need to get back to work.”

“There is a certain amount of dignity and respect that we owe to the elderly,” Thomas responded. “It is so refreshing to hear there is a plan to invest in people. We all want a level playing field. All Americans just want a fair shot, a chance to win the game.”

“The kids I grew up with could never have imagined being a CEO like yourself or in a position to pursue their dreams,” Graves told Thomas. “People want to work hard but can’t. The American Jobs Plan will invest in our human capital. It is the human component that makes this country the best in the world.”

In addition, Graves emphasized that equity is a significant part of the American Jobs Plan and that businesses benefit from a diverse and inclusive workplace.

“Every part of our country needs to have a fair shot. Whether you are on the West side of Chicago or the East side of Cleveland, everyone across the country deserves a chance to succeed.”

Deputy Secretary Graves also underscored the critical role workforce development plays in strengthening businesses, the economy, and American competitiveness.  

“The American Jobs Plan will give Americans the training and the tools to access good quality and higher paying jobs,” said Graves. “Growing good-quality jobs is good for business and for critical industry sectors. When this legislation is passed, we will create opportunities for tens of thousands of businesses,” said Graves.

In conclusion, Isiah Thomas asked where businesses can find information and resources. Deputy Secretary Graves directed everyone to access the Commerce website, a one-stop-shop for businesses for business to access vast array of resources for small and minority-owned businesses including Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and Economic Development Administration.

Click here to view a recording of the event.

The day after the event, the President and the Senate bipartisan group announced agreement on the details of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework, the largest long-term investment in our infrastructure in nearly a century that will make transformational and historic investments. The deal will be taken up later in the Senate for consideration. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo issued a statement.

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