The National Organization for Women (NOW) has long fought for the rights of women throughout the United States, seeking justice for those that have been victimized or discriminated against. We believe that both of these situations have occurred in the Marissa Alexander case.
NOW activists have added their voices to the groundswell demanding that the Department of Justice investigate George Zimmerman for violating the civil rights of Trayvon Martin. We will continue in our common struggle for equality and justice for all people.
NOW will continue to work with our allies to legislatively overrule Vance and Nassar to correct what Justice Ginsburg called ‘this court’s wayward interpretations of Title VII.’ We will also continue to fight for policies that foster racial diversity in higher education — without which communities of color will continue to face unjust barriers in employment and beyond.
In many cases immigrant women are more hesitant to report incidents of harassment because the perpetrator holds a position of power and may threaten to fire them or call immigration if they seek help. Undocumented women in abusive relationships often face similar barriers to reporting acts of violence. A partner may discourage the woman from leaving the relationship using the threat of deportation or separation from their children.
The degradation of women and girls is ubiquitous in our society. The term ‘rape culture’ is used to describe the casual debasement we all experience and witness every day. In fact, it has become such a part of our lives that it is often invisible.