A basic income improves the economy – it reduces unemployment and poverty, and stimulates the economy – pilot programs prove.

CONCLUSION Guaranteed basic income greatly reduces the need in communities and allows citizens to gain individual agency and make choices about their spending. By putting cash directly into people’s pockets we can combat income inequality and racial and generational poverty in the Connecticut area. Many lessons can be learned from both local and national basic income advocates that will help CWEALF advance similar programs. Advocates warned against opponents’ use of coded racist language explaining that much opposition to basic income programs is rooted in racial and economic discrimination. Furthermore, advocates recommend that programs focus on achieving individual agency and personal choice, a lesson proven in the research-based findings from various pilot programs. Recipients in three separate pilot programs reported increased individual agency and decision-making abilities. Finally, advocates urged that there is no better time to advocate for GBI programs as the pandemic has changed the dialogue around GBI and UBI. This is due in part to the high levels of unemployment and the stimulus checks that occurred as a result of COVID-19. In addition, there is much to be learned from recent initiatives for guaranteed or universal basic income in the US. These pilot programs have shown many positive research-based findings including increased mental and physical health. Decrease in unemployment and increase in civil and familial participation. These outcomes show that GBI will increase women’s opportunities to accumulate wealth, improve family health, and reduce reliance on other governmental programs. The fight for GBI is an important one in the state of Connecticut and CWEALF as an organization. Connecticut has one of the largest income inequalities in the country. Specifically, Hartford and New Haven have major issues in generational poverty (and compared to overall wealth in-state). More cash in people’s pockets keeps families financially secure and stimulates the local economy. Furthermore, GBI could reduce the racial income gap and finally bring many black families and individuals above the poverty line.