The Future of the American Worker
Description
American workers have faced numerous setbacks in the 21st century, including the Great Recession, the COVID-19 pandemic, continued wage stagnation, and an escalated cost of living. While workers made some gains following the pandemic, thanks to a tight labor market and because of a spike in organizing, many still feel their needs are unmet, a major theme of the recent election. Too many workers still live in precarity — a situation that could be exacerbated by the rise of artificial intelligence and new technological developments. In the face of these challenges, a bipartisan consensus has formed around the need for a new form of economics that recognizes and meets the needs of working people and families. Join this panel as they discuss the role of employee ownership in helping create a brighter future and better jobs for the American worker.
Speakers
- Xavier De Souza Briggs, Senior Fellow, The Brookings Institute
- Chris Griswold, Policy Director, American Compass
- Michael Quarrey, Vice President Corporate Development, Web Industries
- Adria Powell, President and CEO, Cooperative Home Care Associates
- Moderator: Emma Goldberg, Reporter, The New York Times
Thank you to our colleagues at the Ford Foundation, JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Prudential Financial for their generous support of the 2025 Employee Ownership Ideas Forum. Rutgers University also appreciates the support of the Sorenson Impact Foundation for its support of this convening and other events in 2025.