Donate

We build women’s collective power in the U.S.

July 2, 2022

Ms. Foundation on the Anniversary of Civil Rights Act of 1964

NEW YORK (July 2, 2022) – Ms. Foundation for Women President and CEO Teresa C. Younger released the following statement in honor of the 58th anniversary of the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964:

“The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was the first to recognize and uphold humanity for those who had been denied fundamental civil and labor rights since the founding of our nation. The legislation was a key milestone for protecting our communities from discrimination, yet today, we are commemorating the Act’s 58th anniversary with sorrow and anger as the rights of birthing people are swiftly being stripped away in dozens of states across our country.

As we fight for our reproductive rights, today serves as a reminder of how far our country has come, and how much farther we must go until we achieve equity and freedom for all. It also serves as a necessary warning that we must stay vigilant against harmful legislation, especially given the looming threats from the Court to target our rights to same sex marriage and contraception next.

Our collective power is enduring, and there is no greater moment to uphold and fight for the rights of every person in this country. That is the essence of the Civil Rights Act, and we will persist with this strength in the battle for reproductive justice and increased protections under this Act. 

The Ms. Foundation is proud to support grassroots organizations across the country who are leading this fight, and we remain committed to supporting movement builders who are ensuring that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is upheld to its fullest extent.” 

Ms. Foundation spokespeople are available for interviews by phone or video from NYC. To schedule, please contact Sunshine Sachs Morgan and Lylis at [email protected]

###

For nearly 50 years, the Ms. Foundation for Women has worked to build women’s collective power in the U.S. to advance equity and justice for all. The Ms. Foundation invests in, and strengthens the capacity of women led movements to advance meaningful social, cultural, and economic change in the lives of women. With equity and inclusion as the cornerstones of true democracy, the Ms. Foundation works to create a world in which the worth and dignity of every person are valued, and power and possibility are not limited by gender, race, class, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or age. Learn more and get involved at ForWomen.org.