June 22, 2021

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

For The People Act Should Protect, Strengthen the Sacred Right to Vote

WASHINGTON — Today, S 1, the For the People Act, failed to pass a procedural vote in the Senate, leaving protections for the sacred right to vote still in flux. National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) CEO Sheila Katz issued the following statement:

National Council of Jewish Women urge Senate passage of expansive democracy reforms to expand and safeguard voting rights for all

“National Council of Jewish Women Jewish is extremely disappointed that the For the People Act, or S 1, a bill designed to expand voter access and protections failed in the Senate tonight. Our democracy is strongest when it reflects the diversity of its people. We must always protect and promote the right to vote for all Americans. 

“As Jews, we are commanded by our tradition to pursue justice. The For the People Act would create a democracy that values all voices and build a more just society 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.

“Right now, 48 states have introduced more than 385 bills to restrict access to voting for millions of Americans. The For the People Act would combat these restrictions by increasing political power in marginalized communities and ensure that people of color, and more women, can run for elected office to better represent their communities. 

“The right to vote is fundamental. We urge the Senate to follow the lead of the House by passing the For the People Act and putting the people of this country first.”  

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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.