National Council of Jewish Women Applauds Advancement of Expansive Democracy Reforms, Urges Passage in the Senate

Media Contact:
Alyson Malinger, West End Strategy Team
amalinger@westendstrategy.com; 917-935-7311

National Council of Jewish Women Applauds Advancement of Expansive Democracy Reforms, Urges Passage in the Senate

The For the People Act, if passed into law, will expand and protect voting rights for all, end partisan and racially motivated gerrymandering, enforce transparency in political spending, and restore accountability to the U.S. government

WASHINGTON March 3, 2021– Today, HR 1, the For the People Act, passed the House of Representatives with unanimous co-sponsorship from every Democrat in the House. National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) CEO Sheila Katz issued the following statement:

“Following massive efforts to suppress voters in the 2020 election, it has become increasingly apparent that our country is in desperate need of reform to our democratic system. The For the People Act, HR 1, is a bold reimagining of how our democracy can and should function. It is forward-thinking and transformational, acknowledging systemic racism and structural inequities that impact access to voting and addressing them head-on. Our democracy is strongest when it reflects the diversity of its people. HR 1 will help make our democracy work for everyone.

“If passed into law, this bill would combat voter suppression by modernizing voter registration allowing for online automatic and same-day voter registration; restoring voting rights to returning citizens; establishing two weeks of early voting for federal elections; making Election Day a federal holiday; increasing funds for election security; and requiring states to implement independent redistricting commissions.

“Throughout NCJW’s history, we have fought to expand access and protect the freedom to vote with our partners at the helm of this work. The For the People Act is the next chapter in that story by increasing political power in Black and brown communities and ensuring that candidates of color, and more women, can run for elected office and more fully represent the communities they come from.

“As Jews, we are commanded by Tzedek, Tzedek Tirdof, to pursue justice. By passing this bill, we can enhance integrity, fairness, and transparency in our nation’s elections, create a democracy that values all voices, and build a more just society.

“We celebrate the House’s passage of this bill, and implore the Senate to follow suit and pass the For the People Act without delay.”
To speak with Sheila Katz about the work NCJW is doing around the country to protect democracy and lift up the voices of women, please contact Alyson Malinger, amalinger@westendstrategy.com; 917-935-7311.

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National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of 180,000 volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. Through a program of education, community service, and advocacy, our advocates across the country create lasting social change on our key issues of the federal courts; reproductive health, rights, and justice; and voter engagement. More information on Facebook and on Twitter at @NCJW.