Kalena

Kalena, 36, is a single mother and veteran of the U.S. Army. Working as a hotel phone operator, Kalena has seen a number of people in similar positions be outsourced and feels her position is in danger. Kalena already works long hours to support her and her 13-year-old daughter.

My Story
I am lucky to be working full time with good benefits in the hospitality industry as a hotel phone operator. Though my financial situation fluctuates with the season, my daughter and I manage to get by with my current position and some overtime pay. However, the future does not look so bright. All around me, and especially in my particular work, I see outsourcing, off-shoring and reduction of workers' benefits taking its toll.

I’ve considered taking classes in information technology to enhance my marketable skills if I am laid off, but I can neither afford to go to school or see much worth in it. We were told that only manufacturing jobs would go overseas, but now that nearly any job can be sent overseas, how can I know what to retrain for?

I feel a huge distrust in corporate America and betrayed by my president. I honorably served my country but receive no protection from the government for my job. Now, Bush is finalizing plans to cut overtime pay for some 8 million Americans, including veterans. Though I haven’t had my overtime pay cut yet, once these things start they always trickle down.

President Bush does not understand the toll his policies are taking on workers in America because he has never been in our position. We need a president who understands the reality of working families and the importance of protecting American jobs.