Introduction from Carolyn Lukensmeyer

[National Dialogue Moderator <moderator>]

National Dialogue participants:

Thank you joining the National Dialogue on Social Security. I'm Carolyn
Lukensmeyer, Executive Director of Americans Discuss Social Security. ADSS
is pleased to be collaborating with Information Renaissance on a
non-partisan National Dialogue on Social Security. This is a very important
discussion. This country was founded on a belief of the
importance of every individual having the right and a responsibility to
speak our voice. Our country was born with a commitment for all individual
voices to come together for the common good.

Over the last 2 1/2 years, with funding from the Pew Charitable Trusts,
ADSS has encouraged Americans from all walks of life to discuss the future
of Social Security. Citizens have come together in town hall meetings,
video conferences, community centers and homes across America. Continuing
the discussion over the Internet will reach even more citizens and we will
hear even more of your thoughts, ideas and concerns. I encourage everyone
to familiarize themselves with the background materials and to participate
actively in the discussions.

Your voice matters and you can make a difference on the reform of Social
Security. It is equally important that you as an individual say exactly
what you think. I'd like to share a quote from Margaret Mead that I believe
captures the spirit of what this Dialogue on Social Security is all about.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change
the world. Indeed it's the only thing that ever has."

I encourage everyone to introduce yourself. Tell us why you have joined the
dialogue and what you hope to learn from the discussion. Thanks for your
time and your commitment to making our democracy work.

Carolyn Lukensmeyer
Executive Director
Americans Discuss Social Security
http://www.adss.org