WASHINGTON, D.C.—People For the American Way President Ben Jealous and Executive Vice President Marge Baker released the following statements in response to the death of Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg:
“Justice Ginsburg was a pillar of fairness, justice and equality on the nation’s highest court. She inspired a generation of activists, especially young women, who only needed to look to her example for the courage to persist in the fight for justice and equality. No matter the odds, Justice Ginsburg never gave up. She believed to her core that America could be a more perfect union. She was quite simply the definition of an American patriot. While her right-wing peers on the federal bench attacked every aspect of social progress, Ginsburg stood strong and steady in defense of the gains made by the civilizing social movements of our time. She was a pathfinder toward a future of democracy, equality, and liberty. Though her death comes in troubled times, none have done more to plant the seeds of renewal. We have a duty to carry on her legacy and respect her final wishes regarding when a successor should be chosen,” said Ben Jealous.
“We will be replacing an absolute giant on the Court. We are 45 days out from a critical election and people are voting as we speak. The American people must decide who will appoint her successor. As Justice Ginsburg herself urged in her final words, her ‘most fervent wish’ is that she not be replaced until a new president is installed. We are heartbroken at her loss, but more galvanized than ever about our responsibility to ensure her legacy is preserved,” said Marge Baker.
About People For the American Way
People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.
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