Hate + guns; VAWA still lacking; and long-awaited paid leave: Your civic action to-do list for 12-16-19
3. When violent, angry, and hate-filled people have easy access to guns, people lose their lives – in places of worship, schools, homes, and grocery stores.
In a nutshell: There is still much we don’t know about the Jersey City mass shooting at a kosher grocery store, but we know two things for certain: 1) Hate fueled the murderers; and 2) four firearms were used (including an assault weapon) and HUNDREDS of ammunition shells were recovered.
Take Action: We need to ban assault weapons, limit ammunition sales, and mandate purchasing requirements like gun registration, training classes, and firearm insurance. Demand that your elected officials take action!
2. Domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking are crimes that impact families and communities in every state in our union.
In a nutshell: For the last 25 years, Congress has consistently reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act to meet the needs of survivors, but this year some members of the Senate have refused to support a VAWA with critical enhancements that survivors need.
Take Action: Tweet or email your Senators and urge them to support a VAWA that protects women on tribal lands, has important housing protections for victims, and closes the “boyfriend loophole.”
1. After trying to pass paid family leave for decades, the House of Representatives voted to guarantee paid parental leave for the federal civilian workforce!
In a nutshell: As the largest employer in the country, the federal government is setting an important example. This is a huge win for parents and families, and hopefully a first step in guaranteeing every parent paid time off.
Take Action: Call your Senators and confirm their support for the National Defense Authorization Act (the bill that includes the paid family leave policy), and thank your Representative for their support.