A Public Letter to The White House: Use Made in USA Flatware Everyday
Office of the Chief Usher,
White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave N.W
Washington D.C., 20500
As the new administration begins its work on behalf of the American people, I urge you to use products proudly stamped “Made in the USA”– during White House functions and in the course of regular operations. Specifically, I’d encourage you to use flatware made by hard working men and women in Oneida County, New York. This facility is America’s last and only manufacturer of flatware, and by supporting these employees and their business you can demonstrate clearly that the White House believes in American-Made products. Allowing the First Family, visiting guests and dignitaries to dine with American-made flatware is an ideal way to substantively and symbolically support American-made products, and will send a positive message to United States’ manufacturers and their employees.
Sherrill Manufacturing, which has launched its own brand, Liberty Tabletop, employs scores of New Yorkers and is rightly proud of its high-quality, American-made flatware. In fact, its products are currently the only American-made flatware; all other flatware companies currently produce their products overseas. Sherrill Manufacturing offers 22 patterns of flatware and has recently sent its Betsy Ross line to the White House as a sample.
I believe strongly that we should prioritize the purchase of American-made products, and support American workers, when federal tax dollars are being used. In fact, on numerous pieces of funding legislation, I have regularly championed various “Buy American” provisions to accomplish just this goal. I think it makes compelling sense to feature a superb, American-made product like flatware produced in Upstate New York in the iconic home of the American people. Applying this Buy America principle to the flatware used at the White House will provide a much needed boost to Central New York’s workforce.
Thank you in advance for your consideration of this request. Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer
