NCJW Gives Mixed Reviews to Final Supreme Court Rulings
June 28, 2010, Washington, DC -- Nancy Ratzan, president of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), commented on two decisions announced by the Supreme Court today:
"Today's announcement of the final Supreme Court decisions for this term takes place on an especially notable day for the Court -- the final day for Justice John Paul Stevens and the first day of Senate hearings on the nomination of Elena Kagan to the high court. In addition, NCJW also notes the passing of Justice Ginsburg's beloved husband, Martin, and sends condolences to the justice and her family on this sad loss.
"NCJW was an amicus in two important cases among those handed down today -- McDonald v Chicago and Christian Legal Soc. Chap. Of Univ of Calif, Hastings College of Law v Martinez. Both cases have broad and significant impact. We are deeply disappointed in the McDonald decision which paves the way for overturning countless state and local gun laws that serve to keep our communities safe from the scourge of gun violence. This 5-4 decision is just another step in the Roberts court's systematic unraveling of commonsense gun laws.
"NCJW is gratified by the 5-4 decision in Christian Legal Society (CLS) that stated that CLS's First Amendment rights were not violated by the law school’s denial of funds to organizations that discriminate on the basis of religion or sexual orientation. The narrow split on this decision shows just how fragile anti-discrimination protections are in this Supreme Court.
"Today's rulings clearly point out that the federal courts have an impact on every aspect of our lives. Who sits on these courts is critical to the fate of our rights and liberties for generations. NCJW is working to bring that message to communities across the country through its BenchMark judicial nominations campaign and is actively mobilizing the grassroots to engage in the issue of judicial nominations."
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. Through BenchMark: NCJW's Judicial Nominations Campaign, NCJW has delivered the voice of progressive Jewish women and our allies to promote a federal bench with judges committed to upholding constitutional rights.
Contact:
Emily Alfano
202 296 2588 x5; emily@ncjwdc.org