CONTACT: JENI HYDER

NOW NATIONAL SECRETARY TO SPEAK AT KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY; CALLS FOR MASS MOBILIZATION AGAINST THE CONSERVATIVE BACKLASH

"It's time to let elected members of the radical right and their supporters know that women and men of conscience will not stand by and watch them reinstate sexism, bigotry and violence designed to put us `in our place,'" Johnson said. "This includes the violence in our homes and in the streets, anti-abortion terrorism and the tyrannnical measures of politicos in the states and in Washington who are waging a war on poor ."

Trip Highlights

WHAT: SPEECH to campus community and public on "Changing the Culture of Violence Against Women"

WHERE: Kutztown University, Old Main Room 138

WHEN: Tuesday, February 28 from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.

"On April 9, women and men from around the country will make their voices heard,letting America know that supporting anti- abortion terrorism, welfare reform that punishes poor women and children and defunding education and career opportunities programs for women and people of color are all forms of violence which hurt women --just like rape and domestic violence," Johnson said.

Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, Johnson overcame the hurdle of growing up in a violent urban ghetto to pursue an extraordinary nursing career, spanning over 25 years. She served as an Air Force officer for over 20 years and has a long history of racial diversity, equal opportunity and health activism.

Karen Johnson's visit to Kutztown to mobilize activists is part of NOW's 100 Days of Action designed to counter Republican plans for the first 100 Days of Congress, as spelled out in the Contract ON America. NOW's actions will culminate in a massive Rally for Women's Lives April 9 on the mall in front of the U.S. Capitol.