National Organization for Women-NYS Gives Opinion on Governor's Appointment

ALBANY, NY (01/23/2009)(readMedia)-- Because NOW-New York State encouraged the National Organization for Women PAC's endorsement of (8)-term Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney to fill the vacated seat of Hillary Clinton, we are disappointed to know that our very experienced congresswoman was not chosen to fill the seat. Maloney, who currently co-chairs the Joint Economic Committee, has worked tirelessly for the interests of New Yorkers and for those who have no voice, all around the world.

However, NOW New York State is pleased that Governor Paterson has named a woman, Kirsten Gillibrand, to join the ranks of the 100-member U.S. Senate.

Marcia Pappas, President of NOW New York State stated, "NOW New York State will work with Senator Gillibrand as she enters this next stage of her public service, especially since there is much work to be done. Women's rights have been on the back burner for too long and it's time to undo the cruel setbacks that women and families have suffered over the past eight years. We hope to meet with Gillibrand to discuss how we can work together and move forward on issues such as reproductive justice, ending violence against women, lesbian/gay rights, passage of the much needed Equal Rights Amendment, and support for the rights and dignity of immigrant women and their families."