“On behalf of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, I am pleased to recognize Congressman Crowley and Congressman Brady for their outstanding legislative accomplishments,” said AAFA Board of Directors Chairperson Carol J. Hochman, CEO of Triumph Apparel Marketing.  “Their goals to open global markets and promote U.S. businesses abroad have helped sustain the U.S. apparel and footwear industry during this tough economic climate.  Working together, we will move our industry forward.”

“In a town of competing interests, Representatives Crowley and Brady have put American families first,” said AAFA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke.  “By following through on commitments to promote U.S. competitiveness around the world, the U.S. apparel and footwear industry is able to keep prices low and quality high for consumers, even in a down market.  I appreciate their efforts and look forward to working with them as we build an even stronger and more creative industry.” 

Both Crowley and Brady have worked to ensure that the U.S. apparel and footwear industry is able to maintain its competitive edge in the global marketplace. 

Crowley ’s role on the House Ways and Means Committee and his service as Chairman of the influential New Democrat Coalition has positioned him to take a leading role in the development of U.S. economic policy to benefit workers by enhancing their global competitiveness while promoting U.S. business around the world.

At the same time, Brady’s role as Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Trade of the House Ways and Means Committee and as the Senior House Republican on the Joint Economic Committee has put him in position to move the apparel and footwear industry forward by supporting expanded market access for American businesses, including his support for the Dominican Republic - Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR)

Crowley and Brady’s legislative accomplishments work to the benefit of hardworking American families at a time when they need it the most.  During the 110th Congress, Crowley and Brady served as original sponsors of the Affordable Footwear Act in the U.S. House of Representatives.  The Affordable Footwear Act, which was re-introduced in the Senate earlier this year and is expected to be re-introduced in the House soon, will remove the regressive and hidden tax on most children’s and low cost shoes.  This unavoidable import tax borne by consumers – known as the Shoe Tax – can raise the cost of low cost and children’s shoes by as much as 40 percent.  Immediate savings will be passed on to consumers once the Affordable Footwear Act is passed and signed into law.

Background

Friend of the Apparel and Footwear Industry Award

In the inaugural presentation, this award honors Members of Congress, Administration or Federal Agency Officials who support the key issues and priorities of a competitive U.S. apparel and footwear industry.  The award recognizes those who consistently uphold the ideals for strong American and global markets that sustain and support U.S. and global economic prosperity.  It is awarded on behalf of the AAFA Board of Directors.

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the national trade association representing apparel, footwear and other sewn products companies, and their suppliers, which compete in the global market.  AAFA's mission is to promote and enhance its members' competitiveness, productivity and profitability in the global market by minimizing regulatory, commercial, political, and trade restraints.