Rihanna Assault Calls Attention to Violence Against Women

Released on February 10, 2009

The recent arrest of R&B star Chris Brown, who reportedly assaulted and threatened singer Rihanna, preventing her participation in the Grammys, has brought the ever-present issue of violence against women into the public spotlight once again.

NOW Urges Nomination of Sen. Debbie Stabenow as Secretary of Health and Human Services

Released on February 3, 2009

With the withdrawal of Sen. Tom Daschle from consideration, the National Organization for Women urges President Barack Obama to nominate another strong and consistent advocate for universal health care to the position of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) has long focused on health care as a priority, and with her background as a social worker she is well positioned to take the helm of this agency that is so critical to women and families.

NOW Applauds the Final Passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Act

Released on January 27, 2009

This day has been a long time coming for Lilly Ledbetter and every woman who has suffered pay discrimination. It is an important symbol that the Lilly Ledbetter Act will be the first piece of legislation signed by President Barack Obama.

Kirsten Gillibrand Picked to Fill Hillary Clinton’s Senate Seat: NOW Looks Forward to Working with Another Strong Supporter of Women’s Rights

Released on January 23, 2009

Today New York Gov. David Paterson picked women’s rights supporter Kirsten Gillibrand to fill the Senate seat vacated by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. “She has big shoes to fill, and we are confident that she will be a senator who will continue the fight for the women, girls and families of New York and the nation,” said NOW President Kim Gandy. “We are pleased a pro-choice woman has been appointed, and we expect that Gillibrand will take up key issues where Clinton left off.”

NOW Cheers Repeal of Global Gag Rule As First Step toward Worldwide Reproductive Justice

Released on January 23, 2009

“President Obama took the side of justice today,” said NOW President Kim Gandy. “For eight years the Global Gag Rule has forced international family planning organizations to make an impossible choice between providing comprehensive reproductive health care, and receiving funds that enable them to help women in need. Women around the world have died as a result of this heartless policy.”