President Biden Honors William Spriggs for His Lifetime Advocacy for Economic Justice

President Biden Mourns the Passing of William Spriggs

President Joe Biden released a statement on June 7, 2023, expressing his deep condolences on the passing of William Spriggs, an eminent economist and advocate for economic justice. Spriggs was a trailblazer who challenged the basic assumptions of his field, sharing his insights and research on labor markets, pay equity, and worker empowerment. The President reflected on Spriggs’ lifetime achievements and remarkable contributions to the field, along with his kindness, warmth, and essential role as a public servant.

A Storied Career in Economics

William Spriggs served as the Chief Economist for the AFL-CIO, becoming the first Black American to hold the position. He tirelessly worked to ensure that the needs and voices of workers belonged at the center of economic policymaking. Spriggs was also the Economics Department Chair at Howard University, where he continued his advocacy for economic justice. Spriggs’ groundbreaking work on racial discrimination in labor markets and pay equity inspired countless economists, including some who currently work under the Biden Administration.

Challenging the Basic Assumptions of Economics

As President Biden noted, Spriggs’ work challenged the fundamental assumptions of his field. For instance, Spriggs demonstrated that wage and income inequality was not solely the result of individual choices or market forces but was instead closely connected to systematic discrimination in various forms. This work paved the way for a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of how the economy operates and how policy interventions can promote social and economic justice.

Reflections on Spriggs’ Legacy

William Spriggs was an essential voice in economics, advocating tirelessly for economic justice and inspiring many others to do the same. His life and work remind us of the importance of making the economy more inclusive, equitable, and just. As the Biden Administration currently focuses on the theme of “Building Back Better,” inspiring figures like Spriggs are essential guides for the policymaking process.

Final Thoughts

William Spriggs’ lifetime achievements have helped move the needle on economic justice and will continue to inspire future generations. His outstanding contributions to the field of economics and advocacy for worker empowerment and economic equality will long be remembered. As policymakers around the world strive to create a more equitable and sustainable economy, the groundbreaking work of William Spriggs will remain an essential guide.

Advice for today

William Spriggs’ legacy reminds us of the importance of bringing the voices and needs of marginalized groups into the policymaking process. As we work towards building a more inclusive and just society, we must continue to learn from the insights and perspectives of those who have been historically excluded from participating in the economy. By centering their needs and perspectives, we can create policies that serve the greater good.