The Incredible Email I Got Today

Secretary of Labor Tom Perez with Jesseca Hudson, 11, of Cleveland after talking at the SEIU District 1199 building in Cleveland on Friday, March 28, 2014. (U.S. Department of Labor)

Ed. note: This is cross-posted on the U.S. Department of Labor's (Work in Progress) blog. See the original post here.

As I travel across the country, I hear stories from so many remarkable Americans who inspire me to work harder every day. In Cleveland this morning, I spoke at a rally about the importance of raising the minimum wage. While I was there, I talked with 11-year-old Jesseca, who came out to show her support for giving millions of workers the dignity and respect a hard day’s work deserves. I gave her my business card – as I do with many people I meet on the road. Before I boarded the plane back to D.C., I got this email in my inbox:

Sent: Friday, March 28, 2014 2:23:31 PM
To: Thomas Perez
Subject: Minimum Wage Tour Cleveland

Dear Mr. Thomas Perez,

My name is Jesseca Hudson I would first like to thank you for noticing me at the “Raise the Minimum Wage Rally.” I learned that families have a hard time trying to take care of the people they love and themselves because of low wages. Tracey a low wage worker struggles day to day to take care of people she love and herself. She would really like to do something fun for her grandchild.

I believe as an 11 year old I can help because I am young and people love to hear stories from kids about world events and about how kids are involved to make a difference. I think it is good for the government to help struggling people.

I look forward to working with you and your group.

Yours truly,

Jesseca M. Hudson

Jesseca’s right. Kids can and do make a difference. With her speaking up, I feel confident about the future of our country. I encourage all Americans — and Congress — to join Jesseca in her call to reward hard work with a fair wage.