NCJW Welcomes Nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor
May 26, 2009, Washington, DC -- The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today welcomed the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the US Supreme Court. NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:
“NCJW is heartened that President Obama has nominated Judge Sonia Sotomayor to fill the seat on the Supreme Court left vacant by retiring Justice David Souter. Judge Sotomayor brings impeccable legal credentials, a wealth of experience on the bench, and a personal story that reassures us she will not lose sight of the impact of the Court’s decisions on ordinary people. We look forward to a rapid, fair, and respectful confirmation process.
“The Supreme Court is the stalwart guardian of the most precious of democratic values -- the rights and freedoms of individuals, including religious freedom, reproductive freedom, and equal rights. NCJW is encouraged that Judge Sotomayor’s record on individual rights and liberties reflects that of a jurist committed to fundamental freedoms. We are hopeful that, if confirmed, her tenure on the Supreme Court will strengthen the Court’s role as the ultimate guardian of individual rights.
“NCJW believes that only those women and men committed to upholding constitutional rights -- including reproductive freedom, equality, justice, and opportunity for all -- should be confirmed to lifetime seats on the federal bench.
“Additionally, NCJW firmly believes that the faces and life journeys of our national leadership, including those on the bench, should reflect those of our nation’s population. Judge Sotomayor’s personal story is inspiring and reflective of the contemporary relevance of the American dream. We believe that Judge Sotomayor would bring a sensitivity and wisdom to the court that will inform her deliberations and those of the other justices.
“NCJW looks forward to the confirmation process as it unfolds in the US Senate. As the Senate deliberates, it is crucially important that senators hear from their constituents, the grassroots that define our nation. NCJW’s 90,000 members and supporters nationwide will be actively engaged in the confirmation process, working to ensure that it proceeds with promptness, integrity, and focus on the credentials, record, and qualifications of this outstanding jurist.”
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of 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.
Contact:
Emily Alfano
202 296 2588 x5; emily@ncjwdc.org