A message from LEAMNJ
(Lutherans Engaging in Advocacy Ministry, the governmental advocacy arm of the NJ Synod of the ELCA) on the death of Tyre Nichols: “…Although this tragic act of violence took place in Memphis, Tennessee, it has sparked discussion about the role of police and the necessity of police reform across the country.
New Jersey is one such state. New Jersey has failed to pass a full chokehold ban, failed to establish civilian review boards with subpoena power, failed to enact transparency of disciplinary records and failed to end qualified immunity — all reforms that other states have established. We must fight to establish these protections in our state. Please tell your elected officials to pass, and the Governor to sign, S265/A2431 to completely ban the use of deadly chokeholds.”
If you are interested in receiving the LEAMNJ weekly email update on the issues in Trenton, please visit leamnj.org
Behind the News
Women’s History Month is observed in March in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, corresponding with International Women’s Day on March 8. Women’s contributions throughout history and contemporary society also are recognized in various ways in Russia, Ukraine and Hungary. What started in 1978 as Women’s History Day in California grew nationally to a week in 1980 with a declaration by President Jimmy Carter, and then a month by 1987 in the US, thanks to bi-partisan Congressional resolutions. From there the observance spread internationally. In March 2011, the Obama administration added to the observance by releasing Women in America: Indicators of Social and Economic Well-Being, showing women’s status in the U.S. and how it had changed over time. This report was the first comprehensive federal report on women since the report produced by the Commission on the Status of Women in 1963.
Looking ahead
Planning has begun for LCOS’ second annual Pride Month observance. Building on last year’s successful Haddon Township Pride Parade appearance, we’ll be marching again on June 8. Interested in helping to plan additional June activities? Please contact Jeanne Coleman-Jones (rmj2708@gmail.com or 856-912-6565) to join the group.
Find Your Passion: Join a Justice & Peace Team
Interested in furthering the work of Justice and Peace, but too busy to be part of the full committee? Please consider joining one of the sub teams focusing on specific issues. Current topics are LGBTQIA Acceptance, Environmental Justice, Racial Justice and Gun Violence Prevention. More areas can be added if there’s interest. Please contact Lynn Block to find out more (blockstar59@hotmail.com).
