WCF President/CEO Sam Bennett’s statement on Justice David Souter’s retirement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2009
Statement from Sam Bennett, Women's Campaign Forum President/CEO, on Justice David Souter's retirement
"The retirement of Supreme Court Justice David Souter gives President Obama the opportunity to nominate a woman to the bench who supports reproductive health."
"With the current court holding four anti-choice male justices and Ruth Bader Ginsburg as the only woman, it is essential that the next justice begin to even out the gender disparity and stand for reproductive rights."
"President Obama has already made strides in appointing more women to power, and now has the chance to leave a lasting impression on the composition of our highest court. With women comprising over half of the population of the U.S., it is imperative that they have equal representation in our government.”
"Studies show that access to reproductive options is critical to the economic health of nations. Women who stand for reproductive justice in elected office ensure that legislation essential to women’s health is properly addressed. It is unacceptable that the United States currently ranks 72nd in the world for women holding elected office. America should serve as a leader in gender parity, instead of lagging behind."
"President Obama has the chance to lead us into an era where women have equality in power and representation in the United States. The Women's Campaign Forum hopes the President will use the vacancy of Justice Souter's position to lead that charge by nominating a qualified woman who will support reproductive justice."
WCF, founded in 1974, is a non-partisan national network dedicated to achieving gender parity in public office. As political venture capitalists, we work to advance women at all levels of political participation and empower them to impact issues of critical importance to the nation, including reproductive health.
Contact: Erin Cutraro, 202-393-8164
