A few weeks ago, my family and I sat down for our movie night, enjoying one of my all-time favorites, Cinderella Man, featuring Russell Crowe. Set during the Great Depression in New York City, the film follows the struggles of boxer James J. Braddock as he fights to keep his family together amidst one of the country’s most severe economic crises. Through various hardships, Braddock finds himself on the brink of financial collapse and must literally battle his way back to a stable life.
While the movie offers a dramatized view of the Depression, it served as a powerful springboard for discussions with my children about social injustice and financial struggles. They were taken aback to learn about the existence of shantytowns, known as Hoovervilles—named after President Herbert Hoover, who faced much criticism for his handling of the economic turmoil. The stark contrast between the wealthy, who continued their lives unbothered, and the working poor was particularly shocking for my 11-year-old daughter. My son quietly absorbed the scenes of Braddock waiting in line for day labor, clearly moved by the gravity of the situation.
What resonates with me most about this film is the reminder of the lengths to which people went to survive during the Depression. At that time, there were no safety nets for those who were elderly, sick, or unable to work. Social programs like Social Security and welfare were not yet in place. Thanks to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, however, many of the social assistance programs we have today were initiated, providing crucial support for vulnerable populations.
In recent discussions about social assistance programs, Social Security has frequently been at the center of debate across political lines. Concerns about an aging population and the sustainability of funding have led some to question the need for Social Security. Often, I hear a misconception that equates Social Security with welfare, prompting me to delve into the realities of the program to dispel some myths.
Myth 1: Social Security is a handout.
Not at all. From your first paycheck, you are actively contributing to the Social Security system. The funds you pay into it help support current beneficiaries, like retirees and disabled individuals. When it’s your turn to retire or seek assistance, future workers will do the same for you. This isn’t about getting something for nothing; it’s a system built on mutual support.
Myth 2: Social Security is for those who are lazy and unwilling to work.
While it is true that many beneficiaries are retired, Social Security also aids individuals who are too ill to work, as well as children under 18 who have lost a parent. Additionally, surviving spouses caring for young children can receive benefits. Many people face health challenges that make steady employment impossible, and Social Security provides essential support for their basic needs. It is not a source of wealth, and those who rely on it due to medical issues are far from lazy.
Myth 3: Social Security will be obsolete by the time I retire, so why contribute?
This belief is misleading. Although our aging population is living longer, advancements in productivity mean that providing long-term benefits is more feasible now than during the Depression. Research shows that modern workers are more efficient, allowing for a sustainable support system for retirees. If you’re unsure about how Social Security works, it’s worth taking the time to learn—it might change your perspective on contributing.
Myth 4: Social Security will lead to government bankruptcy.
This is simply not true. While healthcare costs are likely to rise as the population ages, the potential burden of those costs should not overshadow the need for Social Security. Increased worker productivity has led to higher revenue for Social Security, making it essential to focus on healthcare funding solutions instead. Social Security itself is not the root of financial issues for the government.
I’m proud to contribute to Social Security, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because I trust that it will be there for me when I need it, whether for retirement or if I am unable to work due to illness. It’s a cycle of support. Just as James J. Braddock showed us, everyone may need a helping hand to get back in the fight. Hopefully, my contributions will assist someone else in overcoming their challenges.
For more insights on fertility and family planning, check out this resource on fertility boosters for men and learn about the impact of weight on fertility from this friendly Q&A session. For excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit IVF Babble.
In summary, Social Security is a vital program that supports many individuals and families, dispelling the myths surrounding it benefits those in need, not just those who are unwilling to work.