Despite taking billions of bailout money from the government, AIG gave some of its executives millions of dollars worth of bonuses. These actions during hard times have caused a stir among everyday Americans as well as Congress. Outraged over what many see as greed, Americans have not hesitated to voice their opinions on whether the money needs to be returned or not.
ESSENCE.com hit the streets to find out if you would return the money or keep it for yourself and your family.
As told to: Maya Rhodan and Jasmine Bolton
Age: 31
City: Chicago
“I would not give the money back. The company has a contractual obligation to pay me what I’m guaranteed. I understand the circumstances and the emotional reaction behind what’s going on, but, on the other hand, if I was a school teacher yet the school system was doing poorly, should I not get paid? Or if I were a janitor at a hospital that wasn’t performing well, should I not be compensated for doing my job correctly?”
Age: 26
City: New York City
“I would give the money back given the status of the industry and the response of the community; it’s the right thing to do. However, I think it depends on your personal situation. Some of these people don’t work for AIG anymore and have gotten laid off, but others are to blame for the mess. So, it really depends on the personal situation.”
Age: 27
City: Harlem, New york
“In this economic climate, I would give the money back. I wouldn’t accept it in the first place; it’s not ethical. If they want to restore faith in the company in the long run, they should give the money back to show that they have integrity and honesty, because right now they look like a bunch of greedy crooks."
Age: 28
City: Raleigh, North Carolina
“Giving the money back is just the right thing to do given the financial situation the country is in. As taxpayers, we have doled out all this money for bailout and people that have substantial salaries receiving more money just doesn’t seem right. It would be tough, but given the financial status of an executive, they should be fine without the added bonus.”