NOW Endorses National Equality March

Statement of NOW President Terry O'Neill

September 21, 2009

The National Organization for Women is proud to endorse the grassroots National Equality March taking place in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 11, 2009. In the 21st century, it is simply outrageous not to have full equality under the law for all people, including women, lesbians and women of color -- and we have a moral obligation to change that.

Throughout history, the struggle for civil rights and social justice has changed the face of private and public institutions. Yet, discrimination remains rampant, particularly against lesbians. NOW recognizes that no woman will have full equality under the law until all women have full equality under the law.

Eliminating second-class rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people requires more than repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell and the so-called Defense of Marriage Act, currently casting shadows of inequality over the military and the institution of marriage. It requires more than passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would prohibit workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Our call for change must be bold and uncompromising -- political negotiation only assures that women get less than they deserve. Grassroots NOW activists from around the country will join the National Equality March to demand full equality for all women and all people.

For More Information:

National Equality March (official website)

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For Immediate Release
Contact: Mai Shiozaki, 202-628-8669, ext. 116; cell 202-641-1906

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