AFJ Applauds Appointments of Sens. Booker, Harris to Judiciary Committee

by Kathy Grear 01/10/2018

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 9 – Following the announcement that Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Kamala Harris (D-CA) will join the Senate Judiciary Committee, Alliance for Justice President Nan Aron released the following statement:

“We are delighted that Sens. Booker and Harris will be joining the Senate Judiciary Committee as it takes up its critical work in the new year. These two Senators are champions for fair courts and access to justice for all, and will bring experience, intellect and discernment, as well as diversity, to the committee.  We look forward to their valuable input as the committee makes decisions about the men and women who will be given lifetime appointments to the federal bench, and performs its critical oversight role with regard to the justice system that is meant to protect all our rights.”

Alliance for Justice believes that all Americans have the right to secure justice in the courts and to have their voices heard when government makes decisions that affect their lives. We are a national association of more than 120 organizations, representing a broad array of groups committed to progressive values and the creation of an equitable, just, and free society.

AFJ works to ensure that the federal judiciary advances core constitutional values, preserves human rights and unfettered access to the courts, and adheres to the even-handed administration of justice for all Americans. It is the leading expert on the legal framework for nonprofit advocacy efforts, providing definitive information, resources, and technical assistance that encourages organizations and their funding partners to fully exercise their right to be active participants in the democratic process.

Vision

AFJ advances justice and democracy by:

• Fighting for a fair and independent judiciary by encouraging the selection of judges who respect constitutional values and the rights of citizens, and by ensuring that the judicial selection process is fair and expeditious.
• Working to ensure that the right of nonprofits to engage in advocacy is protected and by providing expertise and information to help nonprofits and foundations understand their advocacy rights under the law.
• Directing public attention and our own advocacy resources to important issues that affect American life and justice.

Whenever threats emerge to the principle of “liberty and justice for all,” Alliance for Justice is prepared to act. When radical right-wing judicial nominations have posed a threat to core constitutional values, AFJ has fought to preserve the integrity of the courts. When conservatives threatened to undermine the advocacy rights of nonprofit organizations, AFJ embarked on a long-term, multi-faceted program to empower nonprofits to exert a progressive influence on public policy. When critical issues of justice have arisen—be it promoting sensible gun safety laws, the use of torture, protecting habeas corpus, or opposing legislation that chills the First Amendment rights of nonprofits—AFJ has sprung into immediate and ongoing action.

Continuing its work of over 30 years, AFJ will lead the nation on the long road back to respect for the Constitution and protection for everyday people.

Alliance for Justice believes that all Americans have the right to secure justice in the courts and to have their voices heard when government makes decisions that affect their lives. We are a national association of over 120 organizations, representing a broad array of groups committed to progressive values and the creation of an equitable, just, and free society. Through our justice programs, we lead the progressive community in the fight for a fair judiciary, and through Bolder Advocacy, we help nonprofits and foundations to realize their advocacy potential.