United Women in Faith: Among Threats to Democracy, Act Boldly for Justice

For Immediate Release

Contact: press@spotlightpr.org

NEW YORK — As this September 15 marks both National Voter Registration Day and International Day of Democracy, organizations across the United States are working to protect our democracy and encourage civic engagement. United Women in Faith released the following statement, which may be attributed to General Secretary and CEO Sally Vonner:

“As we observe International Day of Democracy and National Voter Registration Day, we are reminded of our call to engage in our communities and act boldly for justice. Civic engagement, from voting to organizing and everything in between, is vital to maintain a healthy democracy. We must not take it for granted.

“We are seeing many threats that conflict with our values of democracy. Free and fair elections have been harmed by the gutting of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the subsequent spread of gerrymandering, and proposed legislation that could make it harder for women and other marginalized communities to vote. Our law enforcement has been increasingly militarized, from police to the National Guard to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. National leaders are using their platform to sow hate and division.

“These developments are unacceptable to our values and our mission, and we will not stay silent as our democracy is challenged. We will continue to advocate and organize for a democracy built on peace, hope, and love.

“United Women in Faith encourages all eligible members to ensure their voter registration is updated, learn more about voting in their state, and reach out to those in our lives who may be unfamiliar with the process. Just as our foremothers fought for access to the ballot box, today and every day we will work for a world where women, children, and youth are equipped to flourish and fully participate in a thriving democracy.”

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United Women in Faith is the largest denominational faith organization for women in the United States.