FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: K. Kim Atterbury | [email protected] | (202) 629-5750
Civil Rights Leaders Meet with Top Senate Democrat
Group Detailed Priorities for New Congress to Senator Schumer
WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 11, 2017) – Late yesterday, leaders of the nation’s foremost civil rights organizations–the National Urban League, the National Action Network, the NAACP, Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, and the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation–met with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to discuss the community’s legislative priorities. After the meeting, each shared the following comments:
“Yesterday’s meeting with Senator Schumer was an opportunity for the civil rights community to detail our concerns and expectations of lawmakers during this new Congress and administration. From what we have already seen, there is much that gives us pause. We hope that in this new political climate we will continue to have an enthusiastic partner in Senator Schumer, and in his caucus, to safeguard and expand civil rights and economic opportunities for communities of color.” Marc H. Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League.
“Senator Schumer clearly understands that the tremendous gains for civil rights made on behalf of all Americans could easily be eroded by the actions of the incoming Trump Administration. In Senator Schumer, we see a willing ally in Congress to protect what we have accomplished and to ensure that we continue to move forward in a positive fashion.” Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation.
“Senator Schumer understands that much work remains to be done to advance civil rights across our nation. Issues that must remain front and center include voter suppression, jobs creation, educational opportunity, and ensuring access to economic opportunity for minority communities. Now more than ever, it is essential that we be the bridge that connects the communities we serve to the steps of the Capitol Building.” Kristen Clarke, president and executive director, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
“LDF emphasized to Senator Schumer our ongoing civil rights priorities in education, voting rights and criminal justice reform. It is our hope that Senator Schumer understands the importance of continuing to push forward on issues of racial justice and equality.” Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.
“It’s important that all elected officials understand that protecting civil rights in this country is more important than ever. That’s why we met with Senator Schumer and plan to meet with other leaders in the House and Senate. We aren’t going to let Donald Trump roll back all the progress made in this country on the civil rights front, but we need to remind all politicians that they are accountable for what happens in the next few years.” Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president, National Action Network
The group also requested a meeting with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
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