WHY MADE IN USA MATTER?

Why "Made in USA" Matters

Revitalizing American manufacturing for the future of our democracy and economy.

• Good Pay Manufacturing Jobs: Manufacturing jobs are the lifeblood of individuals, families, communities, and regions, keeping society sustainable and healthy. They create a sense of security, mutual respect, and pride in being called American, especially since WWII, where the USA became a beacon of freedom and human rights worldwide.

• The Manufacturing Decline: Over the past 30 years, America has lost a significant portion of its manufacturing sector to Asian countries. After the events of 1989, the U.S. opened trade with China, a decision that has been compounded by the miscalculations of multiple administrations. Globalization ignored key factors like human rights and labor fairness, eroding the voice of the middle class—until the wake-up call of the COVID pandemic.

• Consequences of Economic Shifts: The erosion of American manufacturing, reflected in the 2016 election, highlighted the frustration of the middle class. Desperation for change can lead to extreme outcomes, as seen historically in communist regimes or Nazi Germany. Events like the January 6th insurrection illustrate how democracy can become fragile when economic disparity is left unchecked.

• The Urgency for Change: Rebuilding the middle class through well-paying manufacturing jobs is crucial for the survival of American democracy. If the middle class continues to decline, societal unrest will rise, leading to deeper political and racial divisions. Without action, the stability of our democracy is at risk, and future extreme events could be even more destructive.

• China’s Ambitious Growth: Over the past decade, China’s "2025 Industry Plan" has advanced its manufacturing capabilities, challenging the global political and economic system. This rapid progress, driven by a combination of low costs and high industrial growth, threatens international security and the future of American industry.

• Reversing the Trend: As industry leaders, we must act urgently to reverse the shift. By leveraging new technologies, dynamic supply chains, and automation, we can bring manufacturing back to the U.S., helping rebuild distressed towns and creating good-paying jobs. While we can’t bring back every industry, there are product categories that can be produced competitively at home, combining design, automation, and cost-effective sourcing.

• The Role of Brands and Retail: The success of the "Made in USA" movement depends on the support of brands and retailers. By committing to sourcing 25% of their total purchases from the U.S. within 10 years, brands can help revitalize the domestic manufacturing sector. A small annual investment from their profits into domestic production can create a snowball effect, restoring balance between American workers, society, and the industry.

• The Call to Action: Now is the time for action. By investing in U.S. manufacturing, brands, retailers, and industry leaders can contribute to the long-term sustainability of our democracy, economy, and national security. Paying a small fraction of profit towards this goal is an investment in the future of the nation, ensuring a harmonious balance between workers, society, and the industry.