NCJW Decries Voter ID Decision

April 29, 2008, Washington, DC -- The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today decried the Supreme Court decision in Crawford v. Marion County Election Board validating Indiana's requirement, the most stringent in the nation, that voters must be able to produce a photo ID at the polls. NCJW signed on as an amicus in this case, urging that the Indiana law be overturned. NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:

"Yesterday the Supreme Court took a drastic step backwards on voting rights. NCJW believes that the overreaching Indiana photo ID law is an undue burden on voters -- akin to requiring voters to pay a poll tax. Acquiring a photo ID consistent with Indiana's policy is an unjustified burden on the elderly, the disabled, and the poor. No evidence of voter fraud involving misrepresentation at the polling place was offered by the state to justify this measure.

"This decision is a very serious attack on the right to vote, and surely a reversal in spirit, if not in law, of the court's long record of protecting that right. It calls into question this court's commitment to maintain the right to vote or to protect the fairness of elections.

"Once again we are reminded how important it is who sits on the Supreme Court and how appointments are made. NCJW will continue to work with those at the state and federal level who seek to overturn the effects of this abridgment of democracy."

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