See Also: You’ve Earned a Say

We have listened to Virginians and what we have heard time and again is what AARP wholeheartedly believes: through your hard work and paying into these programs throughout your lives, you have earned the right to have a say about the future of Medicare and Social Security.

Over the last few months, we’ve heard many different ideas about how to strengthen Medicare and Social Security. But there is a central theme: Most people feel Washington isn't listening! They’re not listening to the concerns of people like you or talking about the health and retirement income needs of older Americans. They’re not talking about what’s fair or about the effects of proposed changes on real people. They're talking strictly about numbers – backroom deals on the budget, not about your need for real health and retirement security.

Many are tired and frustrated with the political rhetoric and spin, and rightly so. So, while Washington talks about the future of Medicare and Social Security behind closed doors, AARP through "You've Earned a Say" is providing balanced information – both the pros and the cons – about the options being considered for both programs. At the “You’ve Earned a Say” website, you can read perspectives from independent experts about Medicare and Social Security, and what can be done to strengthen both programs.

Don’t stand on the sidelines. Get involved. Talk to your friends and neighbors. Share your ideas. Write letters to the editor. Contact your elected officials. Tell us your opinions, share your ideas.

Your voice can and will add insight to this debate. You have a right to say what’s on your mind about Social Security and Medicare. You’ve earned it.

Attend a You’ve Earned a Say event in Virginia this summer:

• Big Stone Gap: July 18
  
• Newport News: Sept. 19
  
• Richmond: July 23
  
• Roanoke: July 31
  
• Sterling: Aug. 14
  
• Virginia Beach: July 24