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## Posts

- [Resolution Updates](https://flnow.org/resolution-updates/) - Written by Kaitlyn Kirk / Communications@flnow.org This past week, the Florida NOW board and members attended the 2026 NOW conference in D.C. Here are some of the business day highlights. We had 24 total resolutions on the floor on Sunday. We got through 15. Access them all through the membership side of the national website.
- [The HAVEN Act is now Law](https://flnow.org/the-haven-act-is-now-law/) - The HAVEN Act became law as of July 1, 2026 Compiled by Judi Marraccini from many sources The Florida Senate passed SB 296, called “Helping Abuse Victims Escape Now (HAVEN) Act.” The legislation is designed to protect victims of domestic violence in dating relationships during what experts said is the most dangerous time — when they’re
- [250 Years of a Colonial Project, 500 Years of Resistance](https://flnow.org/4thofjuly/) - In 2026, politicians, corporations, and institutions across the United States will celebrate the nation's 250th birthday. We will be told to honor the founding colonizers, wave flags, and participate in a carefully curated story of freedom, democracy, and progress. But for many people, there is another story. The United States was not born on empty
- [Gaza Crisis Resolution](https://flnow.org/gaza-crisis-resolution/) - Written by Debbie Deland / Vp@flnow.org Among the other important resolutions, the Gaza Crisis Resolution was neither presented nor debated at the National NOW Conference due to running out of time. Although some good resolutions were passed, there was no time for the very important and more controversial ones. Almost all the 2026 resolutions were sent to the
- [Pride Was A Revolutionary Resistance Against State Violence!](https://flnow.org/pride-was-a-revolutionary-protest/) - Every June, corporations roll out their rainbow logos, release limited-edition Pride merchandise, and fill social media feeds with messages about inclusion. Meanwhile, many of those same companies donate to politicians attacking LGBTQIA+ rights, exploit workers, profit from war, or remain silent when our communities are under attack. This is rainbow capitalism. It is the practice of
- [Great News: Teenage Pregnancy Rates Have Gone Down! Republicans Suggest That Is Somehow A Bad Thing](https://flnow.org/great-news-teenage-pregnancy-rates-have-gone-down-republicans-suggest-that-is-somehow-a-bad-thing/) - Written by Kaitlyn Kirk / Communications@flnow.org https://youtu.be/WTAF5rCwlmU The need for real, comprehensive sex education in this country is urgent. Not just for young people, but for adults who continue to shape what information is allowed, restricted, or erased. This is not just about anatomy or pregnancy prevention. It is about power, language, and safety. When
- [Amy Goodman and her documentary "Steal This Story, Please!" are coming to Florida!](https://flnow.org/amy-goodman-and-her-documentary-steal-this-story-please-are-coming-to-florida/) - Amy Goodman has spent decades doing some of the most consistent and fearless independent journalism in the country. As the co-founder and host of Democracy Now!, she has reported from the ground on wars, uprisings, environmental crises, and movements for justice around the world, often covering what others won’t. Early in her career, she reported on
- [Florida NOW Denounces Governor's Signing of Anti DEI and Anti Climate Bills as an Attack on Local Democracy and Civil Rights](https://flnow.org/florida-now-denounces-governors-signing-of-anti-dei-and-anti-climate-bills-as-an-attack-on-local-democracy-and-civil-rights/) - For Immediate Release: May 1, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW ORLANDO, FL — Florida NOW strongly condemns Governor Ron DeSantis's signing of SB 1134 and HB 1217 on April 22, 2026, banning Florida cities and counties from funding diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and from adopting net-zero carbon emissions policies. “These laws represent a
- [FL NOW Condemns Florida’s Escalating Abortion Restrictions and Calls for Immediate Protection of Reproductive Freedom](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-floridas-escalating-abortion-restrictions-and-calls-for-immediate-protection-of-reproductive-freedom/) - For Immediate Release: May 1, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, Six‑week ban, criminalization threats, and shrinking access endanger the health and autonomy of millions of Floridians Orlando, FL — [May 2026] — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is sounding the alarm as Florida’s abortion restrictions intensify, creating one of the most
- [FL NOW Demands Immediate Action as Florida’s Maternal Mortality Crisis Deepens](https://flnow.org/fl-now-demands-immediate-action-as-floridas-maternal-mortality-crisis-deepens/) - For Immediate Release: May 1, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW Rising deaths, extreme racial disparities, and state inaction endanger pregnant Floridians Orlando, FL — [May 2026] — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is calling for urgent statewide action as Florida’s maternal mortality crisis continues to worsen,
- [Policy Fact Sheet: THE NORDIC MODEL](https://flnow.org/policy-fact-sheet-the-nordic-model/) - Compiled by Debbie Deland Also known as: End Demand Model • Equality Model • Swedish Model This fact sheet summarizes the structure, stated goals, documented outcomes, and range of perspectives on the Nordic Model of sex work regulation. It presents findings from both supporters and critics, drawing on government evaluations, public-health research, and human-rights organizations.
- [Policy Fact Sheet: Full Decriminalization of Consensual Sex Work](https://flnow.org/policy-fact-sheet-full-decriminalization-of-consensual-sex-work/) - Fact Sheet Compiled by Debbie Deland Full decriminalization removes criminal penalties for selling or buying consensual adult sexual services. It does not legalize trafficking, coercion, violence, exploitation, or underage involvement — those remain crimes. Sex work predators are criminals. Decriminalization means: Adults can work without fear of arrest Workers can report violence without risking prosecution Police can focus on actual exploitation, not
- [FL NOW Condemms Forced C-Sections in Florida Hospitals and Demands Immediate Oversight](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemms-forced-c-sections-in-florida-hospitals-and-demands-immediate-oversight/) - Reports of nonconsensual surgeries on pregnant women — including Black women in active labor — expose a dangerous crisis in patient rights For immediate release April 17 by president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — April 2026 — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is calling for urgent state and federal intervention following alarming reports that
- [Art is forever changing - Adding Dolores Huerta and removing Cesar Chavez](https://flnow.org/art-is-forever-changing-adding-dolores-huerta-and-removing-cesar-chavez/) - With the recent news surrounding Cesar Chavez, places have been removing items meant to commemorate him. Even in Central FL, those changes are here and proud.
- [Florida NOW Demands Accountability After Bombing of Girls’ School in Iran](https://flnow.org/florida-now-demands-accountability-after-bombing-of-girls-school-in-iran/) - For Immediate Release: March 3rd, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — March 3, 2026 — The Florida National Organization for Women (Florida NOW) issues a forceful condemnation of the bombing that struck a girls’ school in Minab during ongoing military operations in Iran. Whether this school was deliberately targeted or destroyed
- [Florida Communities Lead Powerful “No Kings” Protests Across the State](https://flnow.org/florida-communities-lead-powerful-no-kings-protests-across-the-state/) - For Immediate Release: April 1, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org Florida is emerging as one of the strongest centers of participation in the nationwide No Kings movement, with peaceful demonstrations growing in size, energy, and diversity across the state. From Miami to Jacksonville, Floridians are uniting to affirm
- [Police Stings: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver](https://flnow.org/police-stings-last-week-tonight-with-john-oliver/) - Watch Police Stings: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (Grady Judd mentioned at 6:09 & 26:38 in the video.) John Oliver’s recent Last Week Tonight segment on police stings brought national attention to something many of us in Florida already know too well: these operations are often more about spectacle than safety. In the March 23 episode, Oliver
- [Florida NOW Mourns the Murder of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, A Trailblazer for Environmental Justice and Community Leadership](https://flnow.org/florida-now-mourns-the-murder-of-vice-mayor-nancy-metayer-bowen-a-trailblazer-for-environmental-justice-and-community-leadership/) - For Immediate Release: April 4, 2026. President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org “Florida NOW (FL NOW) joins communities across Florida in mourning the domestic violence death of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, a visionary leader, environmental justice advocate, and the first Black woman elected to the Coral Springs City
- [Sunrise Orlando and the Rise of Public Transportation](https://flnow.org/sunrise-orlando-and-the-rise-of-public-transportation/) - Solving Orlando’s Traffic Problem: How Public Transit Can Make a Difference Florida is known for many things. From the oranges and the wildlife, which range from the American alligator to the scrub jay, to the theme parks and constant traffic, there is a lot to take in. Looking at you, I-4! Interstate 4, or I-4,
- [FL NOW Rejects the Project 2025 “250 Year Plan” to Reshape America and Roll Back Women’s Rights](https://flnow.org/fl-now-rejects-the-project-2025-250-year-plan-to-reshape-america-and-roll-back-womens-rights/) - For Immediate Release: February 16, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW Florida NOW forcefully rejects the Heritage Foundation’s recently released 250‑Year Plan, a companion ideological framework to Project 2025, which outlines a long-term strategy to restructure American society by restricting women’s autonomy, limiting educational and economic opportunity, and imposing a narrow vision of family life
- [FL NOW Condemns Trump’s Executive Order Gutting EPA Protections and Endangering Public Health](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-trumps-executive-order-gutting-epa-protections-and-endangering-public-health/) - For Immediate Release: February 16, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW Florida NOW strongly condemns President Donald Trump’s latest executive order directing federal agencies to dismantle core Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules that protect clean air, clean water, and public health. This sweeping order forces agencies to suspend or weaken environmental safeguards, fast-track fossil‑fuel projects,
- [The Case for Doulas and Midwives: Why Florida Needs Them Now More Than Ever](https://flnow.org/the-case-for-doulas-and-midwives-why-florida-needs-them-now-more-than-ever/) - 80% of Maternal deaths are unnecessary. We can’t accept Florida’s maternal death rate. By Debbie Deland Florida has been facing a maternal health crisis marked by rising mortality rates, deep racial disparities, and shrinking access to maternity care. As hospitals close obstetric units and OB‑GYN shortages worsen, doulas and midwives have emerged as essential, evidence-supported solutions
- [Rev. Jesse Jackson Is Now An Ancestor, Leaving A Legacy of Civil Rights Leadership And Advocacy](https://flnow.org/rev-jesse-jackson-is-now-an-ancestor-a-legacy-of-civil-rights-leadership-political-power-and-affirmative-action-advocacy/) - Rev. Jesse Jackson with NOW members at the March on Washington for Affirmative Action, 2000. Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson Sr., civil rights leader, Baptist minister, and two-time presidential candidate, has died at 84. For more than five decades, Jackson stood at the forefront of movements for racial justice, voting rights, economic equity, and affirmative action,
- [Palm Beach NOW and the Case That Changed Workplace Harassment Law](https://flnow.org/palm-beach-now-and-the-case-that-changed-workplace-harassment-law/) - In the late 1980s, Palm Beach County NOW was actively organizing around sexual violence and workplace harassment. After a reported rape at a public beach in Boca Raton in 1989, the chapter organized a “Take Back the Beach” protest to call attention to violence against women and unsafe conditions in public spaces. During that action,
- [FL NOW Responds to Trump’s UN Speech: A Global Stage, A National Shame](https://flnow.org/fl-now-responds-to-trumps-un-speech-a-global-stage-a-national-shame/) - URGENT! For Immediate Release: October 8, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — The Florida Chapter of the National Organization for Women (FL NOW) condemns President Donald Trump’s reckless and humiliating address to the United Nations General Assembly, calling it a dangerous display of authoritarianism, xenophobia, and
- [Florida NOW Warns That “Project 2026” Threatens Women’s Rights, Bodily Autonomy, and Equality Across Florida](https://flnow.org/trumps-newest-outrageous-attack-on-public-school-education/) - For Immediate Release 12.26.25 Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is sounding the alarm about Project 2026, a rapidly developing policy agenda backed by Trump‑aligned lawmakers and national operatives seeking to reshape Florida’s laws on reproductive freedom, gender equality, and civil rights. While national attention has focused on Project 2025,
- [Florida NOW Strongly Condemns Violent Escalation in Venezuela and Calls for Protection of Women, Children, and Civil Society](https://flnow.org/florida-now-strongly-condemns-violent-escalation-in-venezuela-and-calls-for-protection-of-women-children-and-civil-society/) - For Immediate Release: January 5, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) condemns the Trump administration’s violent escalation in Venezuela, which has intensified instability, deepened humanitarian suffering, and placed women, children, and marginalized communities at great risk. Reports from international observers, human rights organizations,
- [Florida NOW Horrified by Killing of 37-Year-Old Woman by ICE Agent in Minnesota](https://flnow.org/florida-now-horrified-by-killing-of-37-year-old-woman-by-ice-agent-in-minnesota/) - For Immediate Release: January 8, 2026 by President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL —The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is horrified and outraged by the killing of a 37-year-old woman by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minnesota. According to publicly available reports, the woman was shot and killed
- [Florida NOW Condemns U.S. Withdrawal from Global Cooperation](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-u-s-withdrawal-from-global-cooperation/) - Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns the administration’s decision to withdraw the United States from 66 international organizations, a sweeping move that accelerates the nation’s retreat from global cooperation at a moment when international collaboration is essential to addressing shared challenges. According to public reporting, the
- [Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session Becomes a Nightmare for Women’s Rights](https://flnow.org/floridas-2026-legislative-session-becomes-a-nightmare-for-womens-rights/) - For Immediate Release: January 13, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — Just over a year ago, 57 percent of Florida voters cast their ballots in support of a constitutional amendment that would have overturned the state’s near-total abortion ban and protected reproductive freedom. Despite winning a clear majority, the amendment fell
- [FL NOW Condemns HB 289: The So Called “Abusers’ Bill of Rights” Endangers Women and Strips Away Bodily Autonomy](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-hb-289-the-so-called-abusers-bill-of-rights-endangers-women-and-strips-away-bodily-autonomy/) - For Immediate Release: January 13, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — As Floridians struggle to pay their bills, keep food on the table, and navigate a health‑care system that is kicking thousands off their insurance plans, extremist lawmakers in Tallahassee are choosing to spend the very first week of the legislative
- [Florida NOW Condemns Kristi Noem’s Irresponsible and Inflammatory Mischaracterization of the Killing of Renee Good by an ICE Officer](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-kristi-noems-department-of-homeland-security-dhs-irresponsible-and-inflammatory-mischaracterization-of-minnesota-womans-murder/) - For Immediate Release: January 15, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.or Orlando, FL — Jan 15, 2026 — The Florida National Organization for Women (Florida NOW) condemns Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for her premature, misleading, and politically charged public statements after the killing of 37-year-old Minnesota mother and U.S. citizen Renee
- [Florida NOW Warns: Authoritarianism Is Undermining Public Media and Reducing Democratic Accountability](https://flnow.org/florida-now-warns-authoritarianism-is-undermining-public-media-and-reducing-democratic-accountability/) - For Immediate Release: January 15, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando— The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is sounding the alarm about the accelerating impact of authoritarianism on public media in the United States and around the world. As authoritarian tactics spread — including censorship, propaganda, and digital surveillance — public
- [Florida NOW Responds to Governor DeSantis Calling Broward County Schools a “Disaster” and Proposing State Takeover](https://flnow.org/florida-now-responds-to-governor-desantis-calling-broward-county-schools-a-disaster-and-proposing-state-takeover/) - For Immediate Release: January 20, 2026 / President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Florida NOW condemns Governor Ron DeSantis publicly labeling Broward County Public Schools a “disaster” and announcing that the state should consider placing the district under receivership: “Governor DeSantis’ latest attack on Broward County’s public schools is an attack on local democracy,
- [Why Decriminalizing Consensual Sex Work May Be the Evidence-Based Path Forward](https://flnow.org/why-decriminalizing-consensual-sex-work-may-be-the-evidence-based-path-forward/) - The national NOW’s current stance reinforces a carceral approach to sex work that treats consensual adult sex work as inherently wrong, while hiding behind ‘safety’ language that functions as a moral judgment in disguise. Liberation requires trusting sex workers to define their own lives and safety. This includes respecting bodily autonomy, rejecting stigma, and violence
- [Want to do an Action?](https://flnow.org/want-to-do-an-action/) - Kaitlyn Kirk, FLNOW Communications Director, has created an action linktr.ee and it is terrific! The linktr.ee is titled Florida NOW Legislative Action. Check out the email actions that you can do in just a few minutes. It is easy, quick and clear. Speak out! Thank you, Judi Marraccini, FL NOW Legislative Director
- [FL NOW Condemns Murder of Minneapolis Man by Federal Agents and Calls for Transparency, Accountability, and Protection of Civil Rights](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-murder-of-minneapolis-man-by-federal-agents-and-calls-for-transparency-accountability-and-protection-of-civil-rights/) - For Immediate Release: January 26, 2026, President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is expressing deep alarm and grief following the killing of 37‑year‑old ICU nurse Alex Jeffrey Pretti by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis on January 24. According to multiple news reports, Pretti —
- [Florida NOW Fully Supports ACLU Lawsuit Seeking Justice for Families of Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo](https://flnow.org/florida-now-fully-supports-aclu-lawsuit-seeking-justice-for-families-of-chad-joseph-and-rishi-samaroo/) - For Immediate Release: February 7, 2026 by President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — Florida NOW stands in full solidarity with the families of Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo, two Trinidadian men whose lives were taken during a U.S. Federal Maritime Strike in October 2025. The strike was part of the Trump administration’s
- [FL NOW Condemns the Outrageous Federal Interference in Smithsonian Museums and Attacks on Historical Truth](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-the-outrageous-federal-interference-in-smithsonian-museums-and-attacks-on-historical-truth/) - For Immediate Release: February 7, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) condemns the Trump administration’s escalating intervention in the Smithsonian Institution, including federal reviews of exhibits, pressure to rewrite or remove content, and new oversight requirements that threaten the independence of the nation’s
- [Florida NOW Warns: Authoritarianism Is Undermining Public Media and Reducing Democratic Accountability](https://flnow.org/florida-now-warns-authoritarianism-is-undermining-public-media-and-reducing-democratic-accountability-3/) - For Immediate Release: February 7, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando— The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is sounding the alarm about the accelerating impact of authoritarianism on public media in the United States and around the world. As authoritarian tactics spread — including censorship, propaganda, and digital surveillance — public
- [The FL National Organization for Women Calls for a Public Health Emergency as Florida DOH Moves to Slash HIV Medication Access](https://flnow.org/the-fl-national-organization-for-women-calls-for-a-public-health-emergency-as-florida-doh-moves-to-slash-hiv-medication-access/) - For Immediate Release: February 7, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — FL NOW with Equality FL and numerous others is sounding the alarm over the Florida Department of Health’s planned cuts to the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), scheduled to take effect on March 1st, and is urging state leadership to
- [Florida NOW Warns: Authoritarianism Is Undermining Public Media and Reducing Democratic Accountability](https://flnow.org/florida-now-warns-authoritarianism-is-undermining-public-media-and-reducing-democratic-accountability-2/) - For Immediate Release: February 7, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida NOW, president@flnow.org Orlando— The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is sounding the alarm about the accelerating impact of authoritarianism on public media in the United States and around the world. As authoritarian tactics spread — including censorship, propaganda, and digital surveillance — public
- [Florida NOW:  Sounding the Alarm Project 2026 – expanding state surveillance over reproductive health data and more](https://flnow.org/florida-now-sounding-the-alarm-project-2026-expanding-state-surveillance-over-reproductive-health-data-and-more/) - https://www.columbiacountyobserver.com/master_files/Letters-Op-Ed_2025/20251227-fl-now-rights-autonomy-equality-across-fl.html By Julie Kent The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is sounding the alarm about Project 2026, a rapidly developing policy agenda backed by Trump‑aligned lawmakers and national operatives seeking to reshape Florida’s laws on reproductive freedom, gender equality, and civil rights. While national attention has focused on Project 2025, Florida leaders are
- [The Matilda Effect Is Ongoing](https://flnow.org/the-matilda-effect-is-ongoing/) - By Julie Kent / President@flnow.org When I began my computer science career, I often heard the joke, “To get the job, a woman just has to be twice as good as a man—fortunately, that is not difficult.” While this remark is sometimes framed as a jab at men, it reflects a deeper and more troubling
- [Sex Work, ICE, Criminalization, and Real Solidarity: What Florida Feminists Need to Know](https://flnow.org/sex-work-ice-criminalization-and-real-solidarity-what-florida-feminists-need-to-know/) - Across the country, especially here in Florida, police “anti-trafficking” operations and local code enforcement raids are being celebrated as “rescues.” But for the people most often targeted, especially BIPOC and migrant sex workers, these raids lead to arrest, criminal charges, family separation, and, for many, deportation. What gets framed as protection is, in practice, punishment. Criminalization doesn’t
- [Linking Trump to "People of the Lie" / M. Scott Peck MD](https://flnow.org/linking-trump-to-people-of-the-lie-m-scott-peck-md/) - Written by Debbie Deland / vp@flnow.org Model is based on F. Scott Peck’s “People of the Lie” At the core of human evil lies malignant narcissism, Trump exemplifies this model: Self‑righteousness and strong will: He cloaks himself in moral certainty, convinced he alone can save America. Plausible, frequent lies: His presidency and campaigns have been built on
- [Awe as Rejuvenation: The Science of How Wonder Restores Us](https://flnow.org/awe-as-rejuvenation-the-science-of-how-wonder-restores-us/) - Awe as Rejuvenation: The Science of How Wonder Restores Us / Submitted by Debbie Deland In a world that feels increasingly heavy—politically, emotionally, and socially—many of us are searching for ways to restore our energy and reconnect with hope. What if one of the most powerful tools for rejuvenation wasn’t expensive, time‑consuming, or out of
- [January 2026 Positive News](https://flnow.org/jan-2026-positive-news/) - Florida NOW and allied coalitions successfully blocked every anti‑reproductive freedom bill in the 2025 legislative session, marking the first time in years that no new restrictions passed. This is a major win for reproductive justice and coalition strength in Florida. Highlights of Positive Developments for FL NOW Issues Reproductive Rights Legislative Victory: For the first time in
- [Censorship Is Reshaping Florida’s Classrooms](https://flnow.org/censorship-is-reshaping-floridas-classrooms/) - International Day of Education is meant to affirm a simple truth: every person deserves access to knowledge that is accurate, inclusive, and reflective of our shared humanity. But in Florida, that promise is increasingly out of reach. Instead of expanding educational access, the state has doubled down on censorship, stripping shelves, restricting curriculum, and silencing
- [International Day for the Abolition of Slavery - The Ongoing Call To End Slavery Globally](https://flnow.org/international-day-for-the-abolition-of-slavery-the-ongoing-call-to-end-slavery-globally/) - What many Americans don't know is that the U.S. still engages in legalized slavery. The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery “except as punishment for a crime,” creating a system that continues to exploit incarcerated people through forced labor, coercive working conditions, and the denial of basic human rights. That clause has shaped an entire system where
- [Intersex and Transgender Day of Remembrance](https://flnow.org/intersex-and-transgender-day-of-remembrance/) - Each November, we honor both Intersex Day of Remembrance (November 8) and Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20), which call us to remember those whose lives have been lost to gendered violence, medical abuse, and state neglect. For intersex people, remembrance means exposing the often-invisible harms of medical gatekeeping, forced surgeries, and erasure. Intersex Day
- [Native American Heritage Month](https://flnow.org/native-american-heritage-month/) - November marks Native American Heritage Month, a time that, too often, is diluted into celebration without confrontation. For Indigenous communities, this month is not just about heritage; it’s about survival, sovereignty, and the ongoing struggle to dismantle the colonial systems that continue to harm Native peoples and the lands they belong to. On what the
- [Domestic Violence—the Latest](https://flnow.org/domestic-violence-the-latest/) - Written by Debbie Deland, vp@flnow.org Nine out of 10 women murdered by men in 2023 were killed by someone they knew, and nearly two thirds of these victims died by gunfire. These disturbing facts come from the annual report When Men Murder Women, Each year, the study presents the reality of lethal violence against women and the
- [“No One Should Disappear in America”: The Crisis of Immigrant Detention Camps](https://flnow.org/no-one-should-disappear-in-america-the-crisis-of-immigrant-detention-camps/) - Written by Debbie Deland / vp@flnow.org October 2025 — Florida In the heart of the Everglades, a sprawling tent city known as Alligator Alcatraz has become a symbol of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Over 1,000 detainees have “administratively disappeared”—their families and attorneys unable to locate them through any federal system. This is not a bureaucratic error. It’s a
- [Florida Redistricting](https://flnow.org/florida-redistricting/) - Written by Debbie Deland / vp@flnow.org Florida is diving into a politically charged and unprecedented mid-decade redistricting effort ahead of the 2026 elections. Why Is Florida Redistricting Now? Redistricting usually happens once a decade after the U.S. Census. Florida last redrew its congressional map in 2022. Now, Gov. Ron DeSantis and House Speaker Daniel Perez are pushing for a new round of
- [Yet Another Attack on Women, Pregnant Women This Time](https://flnow.org/yet-another-attack-on-women-pregnant-women-this-time/) - URGENT! For Immediate Release: October 5, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org FL NOW Rejects the Dangerous Disinformation Campaign on Tylenol Orlando, FL — The Florida Chapter of the National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns the latest wave of disinformation from the Trump Administration, which recklessly
- [FL NOW Condemns Trump’s Extrajudicial Attacks on Venezuelan Vessels: Militarism Is Not Justice](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-trumps-extrajudicial-attacks-on-venezuelan-vessels-militarism-is-not-justice/) - URGENT! For Immediate Release: October 5, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org We Will Not Abide War For the Sake of Women and Children Especially Orlando, FL — The Florida Chapter of the National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns President Donald Trump’s recent military strikes on
- [FL NOW Applauds The Decision by ABC and Nexstar to Reinstate Jimmy Kimmel.](https://flnow.org/fl-now-applauds-the-decision-by-abc-and-nexstar-to-reinstate-jimmy-kimmel/) - URGENT! For Immediate Release: October 6, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org As Importantly, We Are Thrilled With the Public Response That Drove These Decisions. Florida NOW Condemns These Attacks on the Media As A Severe Encroachment On The Right To Free Speech. Florida NOW strongly condemns the
- [Shame on Republican Lawmakers for Government Shutdown—Children, Families, and Civil Servants Pay the Price](https://flnow.org/shame-on-republican-lawmakers-for-government-shutdown-children-families-and-civil-servants-pay-the-price/) - For Immediate Release: October 6, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org ORLANDO, FL — The Florida Chapter of the National Organization for Women (FL NOW) condemns the reckless and politically motivated shutdown of the federal government, orchestrated by Republican lawmakers who refused to extend critical funding for health
- [The Congo Matters: Feminism and the Fight Against Global Exploitation](https://flnow.org/the-congo-matters-feminism-and-the-fight-against-global-exploitation/) - Mainstream feminism often stops at national borders. It focuses on the fights closest to home: reproductive rights in the U.S., workplace equality, gender-based violence in local communities. But this version of feminism is limited. It ignores how global systems of oppression shape the lives of many women, children, and communities. Going deeper means connecting the
- [Florida NOW Condemns Reversal of Childhood Vaccine Mandates: A Dangerous Step Backward for Public Health and Gender Equity](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-reversal-of-childhood-vaccine-mandates-a-dangerous-step-backward-for-public-health-and-gender-equity/) - URGENT! For Immediate Release: September 23, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW). president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — Florida NOW strongly opposes the recent decision by Governor Ron DeSantis and Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo to eliminate all vaccine mandates for children in Florida schools. “This reckless policy reversal endangers the
- [Florida Budget and Detention Crisis Signal Coordinated Assault on Marginalized Communities](https://flnow.org/florida-budget-and-detention-crisis-signal-coordinated-assault-on-marginalized-communities/) - For Immediate Release: September 9, 2025 FL NOW demands a Florida state budget to adequately support community needs. Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) denounces the 2025 state budget and escalating detention practices as a coordinated attack on women, LGBTQ+ communities, and immigrant families across the state. Governor Ron DeSantis’s
- [Florida NOW Condemns Dangerous Rollback of School Vaccine Requirements](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-dangerous-rollback-of-school-vaccine-requirements/) - For Immediate Release: September 4, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) Will Compromise Public Health, Women’s Workforce Stability, and Children’s Safety Orlando, FL — Florida NOW vehemently condemns the reckless plan announced by Governor Ron DeSantis and Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo to eliminate all vaccine requirements for schoolchildren statewide. This
- [Florida NOW Denounces Assassination of Charlie Kirk and Calls for an End to Political Violence.](https://flnow.org/florida-now-denounces-assassination-of-charlie-kirk-and-calls-for-an-end-to-political-violence/) - For Immediate Release: September 17, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org We grieve Kirk’s loss especially for his wife and kids, but we do not mourn him. Making Charlie Kirk a hero is wrong. Florida NOW Condemns Charlie Kirk’s Anti-Democratic, Anti-Feminist Rhetoric. Political violence is not acceptable in
- [Honoring Revolutionary Assata Shakur](https://flnow.org/honoring-revolutionary-assata-shakur/) - Assata Shakur, revolutionary and freedom fighter, has passed away at age 78 in Cuba. Assata dedicated her life to Black liberation. She organized with the Black Panther Party and later the Black Liberation Army, challenging police violence and white supremacy. In 1973, she was shot and captured during a confrontation on the New Jersey Turnpike.
- [International Safe Abortion Day - September 28th](https://flnow.org/international-safe-abortion-day-september-28th/) - For International Safe Abortion Day, Shout Your Abortion shared their poster series by CDMX-based artist Mar Lorenzo (marmarmaremoto), uplifting organizations advancing abortion access across the globe. We believe international solidarity matters because abortion rights are connected globally. In so-called Florida, on the unceded lands of the Seminole, Miccosukee, and many other Indigenous peoples, our communities
- [Immigration Learning Series ](https://flnow.org/immigration-learning-series/) - Written by Debbie Deland / vp@flnow.org Temporary Protected Status: What It Is and Why Cancellations Matter Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian safeguard granted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to foreign nationals who cannot safely return to their home countries due to armed conflict, environmental disasters, or extraordinary conditions. TPS allows recipients to live
- [Why a National Book Rating System Would Harm Readers, Writers, and Libraries](https://flnow.org/why-a-national-book-rating-system-would-harm-readers-writers-and-libraries/) - In an era of escalating censorship and politicized attacks on intellectual freedom, proposals for a National Book Rating System may seem like a neutral tool for guiding readers. But beneath the surface, such systems pose grave risks to the very foundations of democratic access to information, artistic expression, and community trust in public institutions. A Threat to Intellectual
- [The Dark History of Forced Sterilization Of Puerto Ricans](https://flnow.org/the-dark-history-of-forced-sterilization-of-puerto-ricans/) - History We Don’t Know: The forced sterilization of Puerto Ricans, especially Puerto Rican women, was shockingly widespread, and remains one of the most underacknowledged chapters of U.S. colonial policy. Scope and Scale By the late 1960s, over one-third of Puerto Rican women of childbearing age had been sterilized—the highest rate of sterilization in the world at the time.
- [Florida NOW Condemns Devastating Cuts to National Park Service](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-devastating-cuts-to-national-park-service/) - For Immediate Release: September 8, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW). president@flnow.org Warns of Disproportionate Impact on Women, Families, and Frontline Communities Across Florida Orlando, FL — Florida NOW is sounding the alarm over the Trump administration’s unprecedented $1 billion cut to the National Park Service (NPS), which
- [FL NOW Condemns Escalating U.S. Military Presence in the Caribbean: Calls for Demilitarization, Diplomacy, and Decolonial Justice](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-escalating-u-s-military-presence-in-the-caribbean-calls-for-demilitarization-diplomacy-and-decolonial-justice/) - For Immediate Release: September 4, 2025 Orlando, FL — The Florida chapter of the National Organization for Women (FL NOW) joins global human rights advocates in condemning the Trump administration’s aggressive military deployment to Venezuela and the Caribbean. Framed as a counter-narcotics operation, this escalation is a thinly veiled attempt to destabilize sovereign nations, criminalize
- [FL NOW Vehemently Condemns Trump Administration’s Attack on Care Workers’ Wages and Rights!](https://flnow.org/fl-now-vehemently-condemns-trump-administrations-attack-on-care-workers-wages-and-rights/) - Proposed Rule Would Strip Overtime and Minimum Wage Protections from Over 1.5 Million Workers—More Than 80% Women Orlando, FL – The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns the Trump Department of Labor’s proposed rule to roll back basic wage protections for home care workers, a move that would slash pay for more
- [After Minneapolis Massacre and so many others, the FL National Organization for Women Demands REAL Gun Control Laws to Protect Our Communities](https://flnow.org/after-minneapolis-massacre-and-so-many-others-the-fl-national-organization-for-women-demands-real-gun-control-laws-to-protect-our-communities/) - For Immediate Release: August 30, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org Orlando, FL – In the wake of the horrific August 27 mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis—where two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed and at least 17 others injured, most of them
- [Florida Erases Rainbow Crosswalks—Including Pulse Memorial Tribute—Ignoring Safety and Community Healing](https://flnow.org/florida-erases-rainbow-crosswalks-including-pulse-memorial-tribute-ignoring-safety-and-community-healing/) - For Immediate Release: August 23, 2025 by President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org FL NOW Denounces Overnight Removal of Rainbow Walkways Across Florida Orlando, FL — In a sweeping and deeply disturbing move, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), under directives aligned with the Trump administration’s SAFER ROADS initiative, has
- [FL NOW Applauds Federal Ruling Striking Down Florida’s Book Ban Law](https://flnow.org/fl-now-applauds-federal-ruling-striking-down-floridas-book-ban-law/) - For Immediate Release: August 20, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) Orlando, FL — The Florida Chapter of the National Organization for Women (FL NOW) celebrates a major victory for intellectual freedom and youth rights following Judge Carlos Mendoza’s ruling that declared key provisions of Florida’s book ban law (HB
- [FL NOW Condemns Trump’s Authoritarian Takeover of D.C.: Calls for Immediate Action to Defend Democracy and Human Rights](https://flnow.org/fl-now-condemns-trumps-authoritarian-takeover-of-d-c-calls-for-immediate-action-to-defend-democracy-and-human-rights/) - For Immediate Release: August 13, 2025 By Julie Kent, FL NOW President, President@flnow.org This attack is aimed at marginalized communities and focused on creating fear as Fascists do. Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns the Trump administration’s escalating authoritarianism and federal overreach in Washington, D.C., which now includes
- [Sunday, August 17th, 2025, 2pm /Two Movies Showing!](https://flnow.org/sunday-august-17th-2025-2pm-two-movies-showing/) - This month we give you two movies about Racial Injustice. FL NOW is covering two elements of American history on Sunday, August 17th that are appalling and not taught today in any real fashion: "An Outrage" and "Banished" when thousands of African Americans were driven from their homes and communities by violent racist mobs. We need to know more about the real American history to
- [FL NOW applauds the Court’s Decision to Halt the Everglades Detention Camp construction due to environmental concerns.](https://flnow.org/fl-now-applauds-the-courts-decision-to-halt-the-everglades-detention-camp-construction-due-to-environmental-concerns/) - A federal judge has temporarily halted construction at the controversial immigration detention center in the Florida Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz”, citing serious environmental concerns. Court Decision Highlights U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams issued a 14-day restraining order on August 7, 2025, blocking all new construction—including paving, lighting, and infrastructure installation—while a lawsuit proceeds. The
- [FL NOW in the News: NOW Condemns DOGE Audit of Orange County as Undemocratic Overreach By Willie David at Florida National News](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-now-condemns-doge-audit-of-orange-county-as-undemocratic-overreach-by-willie-david-at-florida-national-news/) - ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) has issued a sharp rebuke of the Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), calling its recent audit demand of Orange County “insulting, undemocratic, politically motivated, and mean-spirited.” The July 24 letter from DOGE to Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings accuses the county of
- [DESANTIS AND FL DOGE ARE ATTACKING BLUE ZONES IN FLORIDA!](https://flnow.org/desantis-and-fl-doge-are-attacking-blue-zones-in-florida/) - FL NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN STRONGLY CONDEMNS THE TONE, DEMANDS, AND ACCUSATIONS OF FL DOGE LETTER TO MAYOR DEMINGS AS INSULTING, UNDEMOCRATIC, POLITICALLY MOTIVATED, AND MEAN-SPIRITED! An appalling letter from Florida’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is part of a sweeping state-led audit targeting what officials call “excessive spending”
- [Florida NOW Proudly Stands with Urban League in Declaring a Civil Rights State of Emergency](https://flnow.org/florida-now-proudly-stands-with-urban-league-in-declaring-a-civil-rights-state-of-emergency/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 21, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW ORLANDO, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) proudly joins the National Urban League in declaring a Civil Rights State of Emergency in Florida, in response to the wave of policy, legislative and budgetary assaults targeting
- [Feminism Done Right](https://flnow.org/feminism-done-right/) - Feminism done right isn’t one-size-fits-all—but it does have a pulse. It listens more than it lectures, expands versus excludes, and holds systems accountable rather than individuals alone. At its best, feminism is intersectional and understands that gender equity doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It understands that there is a continuum for gender. It is not
- [Disability Pride Month](https://flnow.org/disability-pride-month/) - Disability Pride is not about assimilation or inclusion into a violent supremacist system; it’s about rebellion and demanding justice in the face of it. It’s a rejection of pity, pathologization, ableism, eugenics, and the demand to be “productive” under capitalism. It’s resistance to a society that treats basic access like a luxury and survival like
- [Did you know we have an active FL NOW Book Club?](https://flnow.org/did-you-know-we-have-an-active-fl-now-book-club/) - Dear Members and Friends, Did you know we have an active FL NOW book club? We meet on the third Monday of every month at 6:30 pm over Zoom. Our book club is an incredible opportunity to learn about topics often overlooked in traditional education, focusing on racism, past and current injustices faced by people
- [Transgender Remembrance Day](https://flnow.org/transgender-remembrance-day/) - Today, we honor the beautiful people taken too soon by transphobic violence and hate. Transgender and gender-expansive people face disproportionately high systemic and social violence with over 600 anti-trans bills continuing to be introduced across the country this year. Since last November, at least thirty were reported murdered in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. They
- [FL NOW in the News: Women's group issues Florida 'travel advisory' over abortion law](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-womens-group-issues-florida-travel-advisory-over-abortion-law/) - From ClickOrlando — After an abortion law went into effect on Wednesday in Florida that restricts abortions after the halfway point of the first trimester, a self-proclaimed women's group issued a "travel advisory" for Florida in protest. Click here to the video which includes an interview with Florida NOW President Debbie Deland.
- [FL NOW in the News: Florida says people getting abortions will not be penalized, clarifies medical exceptions](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-florida-says-people-getting-abortions-will-not-be-penalized-clarifies-medical-exceptions/) - As of Wednesday, May 1, Florida joined several other states in banning nearly all abortions after six weeks. Critics have pointed out that many people don't find out they're pregnant by then, and say the medical exceptions provided in the law to save the pregnant person's life or avoid irreversible damage in cases of dire
- [FL NOW in the News: Abortion rights group warns pregnant women to avoid Florida, offers workarounds to 6-week ban](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-abortion-rights-group-warns-pregnant-women-to-avoid-florida-offers-workarounds-to-6-week-ban/) - From Florida Politics — Florida’s six-week abortion ban went into effect Wednesday. If you’re pregnant and care about your physical and mental well-being, it’s best to avoid Florida altogether for the foreseeable future, a state reproductive rights group said. They also provided a few recommendations for those unable to flee the Sunshine State. The Florida
- [FL NOW in the News: Florida 6-week abortion ban prompts warning](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-florida-6-week-abortion-ban-prompts-warning/) - From Miami New Times — If you’re pregnant and care about your physical and mental well-being, it’s best to avoid Florida altogether for the foreseeable future, a state reproductive rights group said. It also provided a few recommendations for those unable to flee the Sunshine State. The Florida National Organization for Women (Florida NOW) has
- [Florida NOW Condemns Supreme Court Ruling in Medina v. Planned Parenthood as a Direct Assault on Women’s Lives and Rights—More Will Die!](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-supreme-court-ruling-in-medina-v-planned-parenthood-as-a-direct-assault-on-womens-lives-and-rights-more-will-die/) - For Immediate Release: June 29, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) president@flnow.org Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, which strips Medicaid recipients of their right to challenge state decisions that block
- [FL NOW DENOUNCES REPUBLICAN SENATORS AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR PASSING THE BIG UGLY BUDGET RECONCILIATION BILL.](https://flnow.org/fl-now-denounces-republican-senators-and-vice-president-for-passing-the-big-ugly-budget-reconciliation-bill/) - For Immediate Release July 3, 2025 Julie Kent, President FL National Organization for Women (FLNOW) The Senate’s Bill Is Worse Than The House’s Version! “Under the cover of night, Senate Republicans with the tie breaking vote of JD Vance, passed a budget reconciliation bill that is the biggest redistribution of wealth in American history with
- [FL NOW Denounces “Alligator Alcatraz” as a Cruel Assault on Human Dignity, Indigenous Sovereignty, and the Everglades](https://flnow.org/fl-now-denounces-alligator-alcatraz-as-a-cruel-assault-on-human-dignity-indigenous-sovereignty-and-the-everglades/) - For Immediate Release July 6, 2025 by Florida NOW Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) joins the chorus of Indigenous leaders, environmental advocates, and human rights defenders in condemning the construction of the so-called “Alligator Alcatraz” migrant detention facility in Big Cypress National Preserve. “This is not immigration policy—it’s ecological
- [Remembering Judith Southard](https://flnow.org/remembering-judith-southard/) - Dear Members and Friends, We lost a Wonder Woman this April—Judith Southard, a longtime Florida NOW member and a lifelong women’s rights activist. She was in her eighties and had been fighting cancer, but her dedication to justice never wavered. Even in her final days, she asked her family to attend the April 5 protest
- [Girlbossing Too Close To The Sun: Neoliberal Feminisms, Billionaire “Feminists”, and the Destruction of Our Planet](https://flnow.org/girlbossing-too-close-to-the-sun-neoliberal-feminisms-billionaire-feminists-and-the-destruction-of-our-planet/) - Eleven women were launched into space last month. For some, it's being celebrated as a major feminist milestone. But here on Earth, where people are being evicted, flooded out, and left behind, it feels less like liberation—and more like a spectacle. This is not what feminist progress looks like. This is corporate, state-funded escapism dressed
- [LGBTQIA2S+ Pride Month](https://flnow.org/lgbtqia2s-pride-month/) - In June 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, one of the few places where queer and trans people could gather. The uprising that followed wasn’t the first act of queer/trans resistance, and it wasn’t the last. But it became a symbol, not of unity or safety, but of refusal. Refusal to stay quiet. Refusal to
- [This is a Paid Advertisement, not an official endorsement.  We (FL NOW) are barred from making a state endorsement.  Chapters and members are welcome to endorse candidates.](https://flnow.org/this-is-a-paid-advertisement-not-an-official-endorsement-we-fl-now-are-barred-from-making-a-state-endorsement-chapters-and-members-are-welcome-to-endorse-candidates/)
- [Florida National Organization for Women Condemns US Supreme Court Ruling Upholding Tennessee's Ban on Transgender Youth Health Care](https://flnow.org/florida-national-organization-for-women-condemns-us-supreme-court-ruling-upholding-tennessees-ban-on-transgender-youth-health-care/) - June 20, 2025 – Orlando, FL — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) strongly condemns the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors. This ruling represents a devastating blow to the rights, dignity, and futures of trans youth—not only in Tennessee, but across the nation. “This
- [Florida National Organization for Women Condemns ICE Raids, Inhumane Detention Conditions, and Mass Deportation Policies](https://flnow.org/florida-national-organization-for-women-condemns-ice-raids-inhumane-detention-conditions-and-mass-deportation-policies/) - FL NOW strongly condemns the cruelty of the recent escalation of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids across Florida and the nation, as well as the Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda that includes the transfer of detainees to foreign prisons with documented human rights abuses. “These actions are not about public safety—they are about fear,
- [America Becomes Even More Cruel with the "Big Ugly Bill"](https://flnow.org/america-becomes-even-more-cruel-with-the-big-ugly-bill/) - For Immediate Release: June 20, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FLNOW), president@flnow.org AMERICA BECOMES EVEN MORE CRUEL! $4T added to the deficit, almost a $1T cut to Medicaid, a $300B cut to SNAP food assistance, $4T in tax breaks to wealthiest harms the health and wellbeing of all Americans especially the
- [Florida National Organization for Women Urges De-Escalation: NO WAR WITH IRAN!](https://flnow.org/florida-national-organization-for-women-urges-de-escalation-no-war-with-iran/) - For Immediate Release: June 22, 2025 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) President@flnow.org The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) joins voices across the nation in demanding that the United States not be drawn into another reckless and unauthorized war—this time with Iran. FL NOW condemns any move of America
- [](https://flnow.org/5015-2/) - This is a PAID ADVERTISEMENT, not an official endorsement. We (FL NOW) are barred from making a state endorsement. Chapters and members are welcome to endorse candidates.
- [National NOW Conference, July 11 - 13, 2025](https://flnow.org/national-now-conference-july-11-13-2025/) - My name is Judi Marraccini and I am your National NOW Southern District Board Member. Please register for the National NOW Conference at now.org. By registering for the Conference, you are able to participate in the election for the next National NOW leaders. You are eligible to vote if you have been a member since
- [2025 Florida Legislature Report](https://flnow.org/2025-florida-legislature-report/) - Submitted by Barbara DeVane, Written by Equal Ground As confirmed the prior week, neither chamber of the legislature met last week, but we will see movement this week. The House and Senate have released schedules for the week, announcing that they have reached agreements on joint allocations and will be meeting this
- [FL NOW Conference Speakers](https://flnow.org/fl-now-conference-speakers/) - FL NOW Conference Speakers / May 3rd/ Start time 9:15am / The Florida Hotel / Orlando Nadine Smith / Equality Florida / "State of The State" Nadine Smith is the Executive Director of Equality Florida, the state's largest organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2022, she was named to the Time100,
- [Florida NOW condemns Trump’s campaign of Shock and Chaos, as well as His Move to Authoritarianism.](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-trumps-campaign-of-shock-and-chaos-as-well-as-his-move-to-authoritarianism/) - Americans Don’t Abide Kings or Dictators. Trump is a crime against America! We Won’t Be Overwhelmed, We Will Focus! Florida NOW stands firm against the erosion of democratic values under President Donald Trump’s alarming tactics of Shock and Chaos. Trump has been in office for only a month, yet his administration has already unleashed policies
- [‘SAVE ACT’ (HR 22) IS A VOTER SUPPRESSION BILL DISGUISED AS AN ELECTION INTEGRITY BILL](https://flnow.org/save-act-hr-22-is-a-voter-suppression-bill-disguised-as-an-election-integrity-bill/) - ‘SAVE ACT’ WILL DISENFRANCHISE MILLIONS OF AMERICAN VOTERS ‘SAVE ACT’ is a dangerous attempt to prevent eligible citizens their right to vote in order to promote Trump’s fast march to tyranny The SAVE Act’s proof-of-citizenship requirement is a discriminatory solution in search of a virtually nonexistent problem. Claims about widespread voting by noncitizens have been
- [2025 Legislative Priorites](https://flnow.org/2025-legislative-priorites/) - 2025 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES SUPPORT OPPOSE HB 747 / SB 780 – Doula Services: Establishes the “Doula Support for Healthy Births Pilot Program” within the Florida Department of Health (DOH) to integrate doula services into existing maternal health initiatives to improve birth outcomes. SB 1284 / HB 1517 – Empowering Abusers, Setting the Stage to Ban
- [MAJOR PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT NIH AND CDC FACE DEVASTATING CUTS UNDER TRUMP ADMINISTRATION](https://flnow.org/call-for-action-house-bill-1205-will-effectively-end-citizen-led-ballot-initiatives-for-constitutional-amendments-in-florida/) - Impact to Public Health, Disease Control, and Life-Saving Research Threatens U.S. and Global Health. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)—the leading federal agencies tasked with protecting public health—are facing catastrophic budget cuts under the Trump administration’s new federal spending proposal. These changes would significantly weaken America’s
- [11 Planned Parenthood Clinics in Florida Impacted by Funding Cuts, Denying Vital Services to Marginalized Communities](https://flnow.org/11-planned-parenthood-clinics-in-florida-impacted-by-funding-cuts-denying-vital-services-to-marginalized-communities/) - Trump Administration Withholds $27.5 Million from Planned Parenthood, Undermining Reproductive Health Care Access for Low-Income and Uninsured People 11 Planned Parenthood Clinics in Florida Impacted by Funding Cuts, Denying Vital Services to Marginalized Communities ORLANDO, FL – The Trump administration has taken a destructive step by withholding $27.5 million in Title X funding from Planned Parenthood
- [Registration is now open! 2025 FL NOW State Conference: Feminists Fight Fascism](https://flnow.org/registration-is-now-open-2025-fl-now-state-conference-feminists-fighting-fascism/) - Registration is now open! The Annual 2025 FL NOW State Conference: Feminists Fight Fascism will be held in Orlando on May 2nd - 4th, 2025. Join other feminists in celebrating our victories and rising to the challenges in Florida. Buy Tickets Here! $139, which includes appetizers during Friday evening’s Birthday Party and lunch on Saturday. Friday
- [FLORIDA NOW CONDEMNS PRESIDENT TRUMP’S UNCONSTITUTIONAL DECREES BANNING GENDER ORIENTATIONS & BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-president-trumps-unconstitutional-decrees-banning-gender-orientations-birthright-citizenship/) - On his first day in office, January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government." This order mandates federal agencies to recognize only two biological sexes, defined at conception, effectively erasing recognition of transgender and non-binary individuals in federal policies. It also prohibits federal funding for
- [FLORIDA NOW CONDEMNS FLORIDA SENATOR RANDY FINE'S BAN ON FLAGS CALLING IT UNCONSTITUTIONAL AND AN INSIDIOUS ATTACK ON MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-florida-senator-randy-fines-ban-on-flags-calling-it-unconstitutional-and-an-insidious-attack-on-marginalized-communities/) - The Florida National Organization for Women (Florida NOW) vehemently denounces Florida Senator Randy Fine for his recent initiative to ban all flags except the United States flag from public structures across the state. This extreme measure is a direct affront to the First Amendment’s guarantee of freedom of speech and expression. It also targets the LGBTQIA+
- [FLORIDA NOW CONDEMNS LEGISLATIVE ATTACK ON REP. SARAH McBRIDE AND TRANSGENDER RIGHTS](https://flnow.org/florida-now-condemns-legislative-attack-on-rep-sarah-mcbride-and-transgender-rights/) - Less than two months before the first ever openly transgendered member of Congress, Delaware Representative Sarah McBride, was to be sworn in, South Carolina Republican Nancy Mace introduced a bill to ban her from using the bathroom that corresponds with her gender identity. Florida NOW strongly denounces this assault targeting Representative Sarah McBride and the broader transgender community.
- [Youhaveoptions.com](https://flnow.org/youhaveoptions-com/) - Abortion after 6 weeks in Florida is banned, but people are still accessing abortion through travel or self-managed abortion. Learn more at Youhaveoptions.com.
- [CALL TO ACTION: The Equal Rights Amendment is the comprehensive, permanent tool we need to defend abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. President Biden and Congress have the power to publish it.](https://flnow.org/call-to-action-the-equal-rights-amendment-is-the-comprehensive-permanent-tool-we-need-to-defend-abortion-and-lgbtq-rights-president-biden-and-congress-have-the-power-to-publish-it/) - A national abortion ban and attacks on queer & trans youth are on the horizon. Donald Trump made clear he will be instituting these attacks on our communities on Day 1. Now more than ever, we need to unite to block the attacks on our rights. We know the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is the best
- [Florida NOW Election Results Update](https://flnow.org/florida-now-election-results-update/) - Dear Members and Friends, Waking up this morning to Harris losing, losing the Senate, being in worse shape in the House, and that Amendment 4 did not pass is devastating. All of you did so much for the reverse to happen. Please be proud of all we did and know that we couldn’t have done more. We stood
- [Join us on November 17th 12 - 2 p.m. on Zoom for a screening of ‘Still Working Nine To Five', with a Q&A after featuring Gary Lane!](https://flnow.org/join-us-on-november-17th-12-2-p-m-on-zoom-for-a-screening-of-still-working-nine-to-five-with-a-qa-after-featuring-gary-lane/) - Join us on November 17th 12 - 2 p.m. on Zoom for a screening of ‘Still Working Nine To Five', with a Q&A after featuring Gary Lane! The myriad consequences of the inequality working women face still today are brutally unfair. "Still Working 9 To 5" brings this issue to national attention in a popular form: an
- [Florida NOW Quarterly State Council Meeting](https://flnow.org/florida-now-quarterly-state-council-meeting/) - Our final 2024 FLNOW State Council is scheduled for Sunday, December 1st, at 2 pm on Zoom. The agenda will include an activities update, a review our FLNOW postcard projects, and discussions of 2024 achievements and 2025 objectives. Please register at this link: https://forms.gle/tmZ6nDTSytdimNq99
- [A Letter To Florida College and University Presidents](https://flnow.org/a-letter-to-florida-college-and-university-presidents/) - Dear Florida College and University Presidents, The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) writes to emphatically support the rights of students to engage in peaceful protest on Florida college and university campuses without the threat of violence or repression. We are concerned that in the past week Florida students have faced mass arrests, suspension, rubber
- [Florida NOW Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for Pregnant Individuals Following Near-Total Abortion Ban in Florida](https://flnow.org/florida-now-issues-urgent-travel-advisory-for-pregnant-individuals-following-near-total-abortion-ban-in-florida/) - Florida - The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) advised pregnant individuals to avoid travel and relocation to Florida due to the enactment of a near total ban on abortion. The ban prohibits abortions from the earliest weeks of pregnancy, when many people don’t even know they are pregnant. Florida's six-week abortion ban raises significant concerns
- [FL NOW in the News: Volusia, Flagler react to Florida Supreme Court rulings on abortion, marijuana amendments](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-volusia-flagler-react-to-florida-supreme-court-rulings-on-abortion-marijuana-amendments/) - Voters will get to enshrine wider access to abortion and recreational marijuana in the state constitution, after the Florida Supreme Court ruled Monday that proposals for each meet the standards to be placed on the Nov. 5 ballot. Volusia and Flagler County residents supportive of the abortion measure, which will be Amendment 4, were celebrating Monday night, while opponents
- [U.S. Supreme Court case, Idaho v. United States and Moyle v. United States & the nationwide implications for the right to abortion care in emergency situations](https://flnow.org/u-s-supreme-court-case-idaho-v-united-states-and-moyle-v-united-states-the-nationwide-implications-for-the-right-to-abortion-care-in-emergency-situations/) - The Supreme Court is currently considering a case on whether state abortion bans trump EMTALA’s long-standing requirements, and whether states can force doctors to turn away patients suffering emergency pregnancy complications. The consolidated case — Idaho v. United States and Moyle v. United States — has nationwide implications for the right to emergency abortion care,
- [Rulings From FL Supreme Court on Reproductive Freedom](https://flnow.org/rulings-from-fl-supreme-court-on-reproductive-freedom/) - We have fantastic news to share- the Florida Supreme Court has approved Amendment 4, which limits government interference with abortion! This is a significant victory for women's rights and reproductive freedom in our state. Sadly, we also have some bad to share. Today the Court has also ruled to allow the six-week abortion ban to go into
- [2024 FL NOW Conference Line Up Announced!](https://flnow.org/2024-fl-now-conference-line-up-announced/) - Register at: https://actionnetwork.org/ticketed_events/florida-now-2024-state-conference
- [FL NOW in the news: One guardianship bill gets support, but system overhaul stalls](https://flnow.org/one-guardianship-bill-gets-support-but-system-overhaul-stalls/) - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (CBS12) — Two state bills aimed at reforming the guardianship system and closing loopholes have been proposed this legislative session. As the session winds down, one of those bills is receiving strong support, while the other stalls. “I have been fighting for this bill for the last four and a half years,” said Michael
- [FL NOW in the news: Florida bill could establish ‘fetal personhood’](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-florida-bill-could-establish-fetal-personhood/) - The Florida Senate is on the way to passing a bill that critics say would establish "fetal personhood" in civil liability cases. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (SNN TV) — The Florida Senate is on the way to passing a bill that critics say would establish “fetal personhood” in civil liability cases. SB 476 would give parents the ability
- [FL NOW in the news: 'Unborn child' legislation stalls in Florida Senate, may be doomed this session](https://flnow.org/unborn-child-legislation-stalls-in-florida-senate-may-be-doomed-this-session/) - TALLAHASSEE – An effort to allow lawsuits stemming from the wrongful death of an "unborn child," widely opposed by abortion rights advocates, was pulled Monday by its Florida Senate sponsor, signaling the proposal may be doomed for this legislative session. Sen. Erin Grall, R-Vero Beach, postponed action on the measure (SB 476) in the final scheduled hearing
- [Florida National Organization for Women Condemns the Cruel Legislation Targeting People Experiencing Homelessness](https://flnow.org/florida-national-organization-for-women-condemns-the-cruel-legislation-targeting-people-experiencing-homelessness/) - FLORIDA — The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) strongly condemns members of the House and Senate who voted in favor of HB 1365 / SB 1530, legislation that aims to outlaw people currently experiencing homelessness from sleeping in public spaces. The bill threatens local governments to designate a specific property for "public camping and
- [Florida National Organization for Women Condemns Decision Not to Prosecute Former Florida Republican Party Chairman Christian Ziegler for Sexual Battery](https://flnow.org/florida-national-organization-for-women-condemns-decision-not-to-prosecute-former-florida-republican-party-chairman-christian-ziegler-for-sexual-battery/) - Florida — The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) strongly condemns the decision by the Sarasota State Attorney’s Office not to prosecute former Florida GOP chairman Christian Ziegler for the alleged sexual battery and videotaping of a woman in her Sarasota apartment. This decision sends a troubling message about accountability for sexual violence and the
- ['Based on exploitation': Reform advocates say Florida's guardianship system is putting seniors at risk](https://flnow.org/based-on-exploitation-reform-advocates-say-floridas-guardianship-system-is-putting-seniors-at-risk/) - PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — In his daughter Sue Melendy’s Belleair Beach home, 95-year-old veteran Thomas Foster Sr. stays busy making crosses out of clothespins. “He designs the pattern. He gets small ones, medium ones, large ones, picks out the jewels,” Melendy explained. Foster sells the crafted pieces of art at a local market, raising money
- [FL NOW in the news: "Gay Tampa Man Shot, Killed at Dog Park; No Arrests Made" - Out SFL](https://flnow.org/fl-now-in-the-news-gay-tampa-man-shot-killed-at-dog-park-no-arrests-made-out-sfl/) - A gay Tampa man was shot and killed at a dog park earlier this month, just one day after he sent a video with a friend sharing that another man was harassing him. John Walter Lay was killed on Feb. 2 at the West Lake dog park, where he had multiple negative encounters with Gerald
- [Senate Bill 184 Has Passed on the Senate Floor, Allowing for a Lack of Accountability and Transparency by Enforcement](https://flnow.org/senate-bill-184-has-passed-on-the-senate-floor-allowing-for-a-lack-of-accountability-and-transparency-by-enforcement/) - Senate Bill 184 Has Passed on the Senate Floor, Allowing for a Lack of Accountability and Transparency by Enforcement Florida - The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) strongly condemns the Senate's passage of Senate Bill 184, which seeks to hinder accountability and transparency by law enforcement officers. The bill creates a first-degree misdemeanor charge
- [Florida NOW in the News: Florida Board of Education bans public funding for college diversity programs](https://flnow.org/fl-board-of-education-bans-public-funding-for-college-diversity-programs/) - TALLAHASSEE — Carrying out parts of a controversial 2023 law, the State Board of Education on Wednesday approved rules that will prevent colleges from spending money on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and remove a sociology class from a list of “core” courses. The rules stem from a law (SB 266) approved in May by
- [Florida National Organization for Women Demands Justice for John Walter Lay, Victim of Anti-LGBTQ+ Violence](https://flnow.org/florida-national-organization-for-women-demands-justice-for-john-walter-lay-victim-of-anti-lgbtq-violence/) - Tampa, FL - The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) expresses profound sorrow and outrage at the tragic death of John Walter Lay, a beloved member of the LGBTQ+ community, who was fatally shot last week at the West Dog Park in Tampa. Lay's untimely demise serves as a distressing reminder of the profound violence and discrimination faced
- [Ileana Garcia, Rita Harris want to Ileana Garcia, Rita Harris want to reform Florida’s guardianship reform Florida’s guardianship system](https://flnow.org/ileana-garcia-rita-harris-want-to-ileana-garcia-rita-harris-want-to-reform-floridas-guardianship-reform-floridas-guardianship-system/) - ‘The proposed legislation is not just a legal remedy; it’s a lifeline for vulnerable individuals.’ A bipartisan push is underway to reform Florida’s guardianship system after local and national investigations revealed that incapacitated seniors have been having their homes sold out from under them by agencies responsible for their care. Miami Republican Sen. Ileana Garcia and Orlando Democratic Rep. Rita Harris have filed substantively
- [Florida NOW in the News: Florida lawmakers propose guardianship reforms but bills languish](https://flnow.org/florida-now-in-the-news-florida-lawmakers-propose-guardianship-reforms-but-bills-languish/) - By Jeffrey Schweers, Orlando Sentinel January 31, 2024 at 2:19 p.m. TALLAHASSEE — Time is running out on legislation aimed at further reforming the state’s much-maligned guardianship system, which is supposed to protect Florida’s most vulnerable citizens from people who aim to exploit them. The nearly identical bills by Sen. Ileana Garcia, R-Miami, and Rep.
- [Florida Lawmakers Aim To Reform The State's Guardianship System](https://flnow.org/florida-lawmakers-aim-to-reform-the-states-guardianship-system/) - TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - After several problematic guardianship cases in Florida received national attention (1) (2) (3), elected state officials Representative Rita Harris and Senator Ileana Garcia are taking aim to improve the state's guardianship processes. This is a pressing issue for Florida, a state that currently has 2 million residents age 75 or older — more than the entire population of 14 other states. A guardian is a
- [Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) Sounds Alarm as Bill to Criminalize Abortion Advances in Legislative Process](https://flnow.org/florida-national-organization-for-women-now-sounds-alarm-as-bill-to-criminalize-abortion-advances-in-legislative-process/) - **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) Sounds Alarm as HB 651 Advances in Legislative Process** FLORIDA - The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) expresses deep concern as HB 651 passes favorably out of the Civil Justice Committee, signaling a dangerous trajectory towards the potential criminalization of abortion in the state.
- ["I fear the word guardianship more than the word cancer" - Lawmakers Take Bold Action to Prevent Elderly Death, Abuse and Fraud Following Rebecca Fierle and Traci Hudson Cases](https://flnow.org/i-fear-the-word-guardianship-more-than-the-word-cancer-lawmakers-take-bold-action-to-prevent-elderly-death-abuse-and-fraud-following-rebecca-fierle-and-traci-hudson-cases/) - Statewide Legislation Aims to Reform Guardianship System and Protect Vulnerable Seniors TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - In the wake of distressing incidents exposing the demise, neglect, and financial exploitation totaling millions of dollars among elderly Floridians, as revealed through the criminal convictions of former Florida guardians Rebecca Fierle and Traci Hudson, state legislators have introduced comprehensive legislation
- [Statement: Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) Sounds Alarm as Bill to Criminalize Abortion Advances](https://flnow.org/statement-florida-national-organization-for-women-now-sounds-alarm-as-bill-to-criminalize-abortion-advances/) - FLORIDA - The Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) expresses deep concern as HB 651 passes favorably out of the Civil Justice Committee, signaling a dangerous trajectory towards the potential criminalization of abortion in the state. This legislation poses a serious threat to reproductive rights and women's health. HB 651's advancement in the legislative process
- [Join us for the 2024 Florida NOW State Conference](https://flnow.org/2024conference/) - We enthusiastically invite you to register for the 2024 FL NOW Annual State Conference. We will be at The Florida Hotel, Orlando again this year, which is a lovely facility for those of you couldn’t make it last year. The Lee County NOW Chapter and Greater Orlando NOW Chapter are sponsoring. The basic schedule is: Friday evening: Reception with speakers,
- [2024 Legislative Priorities](https://flnow.org/2024-legislative-priorities/) - Click here to view our Bill Tracker to see how where our 10 priorities are in the legislative process. Click here to get future Action Alerts by email. Click here to take action on our existing Action Alerts. Appreciate our work? Click here any donate any amount to support our Legislative work.
- [Hurray for OC School Board!](https://flnow.org/hurray-for-oc-school-board/) - Originally published in Orlando Sentinel — Our OC School Board is working to mitigate the attack on education by DeSantis’ new laws. These laws are racist, homophobic, sexist. The laws are so vague that applying them to our schools is difficult. Last night, I heard this School Board’s commitment to do the best they could
- [PINELLAS COUNTY COMMISSIONER RENÉ FLOWERS SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT:  FIRST, SECOND, AND THIRD BLACK WOMEN U.S. SENATORS TAKE THEIR RIGHTFUL PLACE IN HISTORY   ](https://flnow.org/pinellas-county-commissioner-rene-flowers-sets-the-record-straight-first-second-and-third-black-women-u-s-senators-take-their-rightful-place-in-history/) - For Immediate Release: October 22, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org Just before the world was stunned by the onset of the barbaric atrocities of the Israeli-Hamas war and the ongoing horror in Ukraine, our domestic airwaves were choked by seemingly endless news cycles covering the former President and his 91 felony counts.
- [Read the Florida Feminist! Past Issues](https://flnow.org/read-the-florida-feminist-past-issues/) - FLNOW is very proud of our monthly newsletter, "The FL Feminist". We bring you NOW chapters news throughout the state. Every issue comes with FL NOW's President Column with timely actions and information. A feminist calendar and a list of Task Forces are there for you every month. And the best news ever! If you are
- [CONTINUED DESANTIS ABUSE OF POWER FOR POLITICAL GAIN SUSPENDED A 2nd FLORIDA ELECTED STATE ATTORNEY: MONIQUE WORRELL, OF THE 9TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT (ORANGE-OSCEOLA COUNTIES) CLAIMING ‘DERELICTION OF DUTY’ WHICH IS FALSE!](https://flnow.org/continued-desantis-abuse-of-power-for-political-gain-suspended-a-2nd-florida-elected-state-attorney-monique-worrell-of-the-9th-judicial-circuit-orange-osceola-counties-claiming-derelictio/) - EARLIER HE SUSPENDED ANDREW WARREN, OF THE 13TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY) FOR UNJUSTIFIED REASONS. The Florida ACLU said, “Once again Governor DeSantis shows that he will do whatever he can in order to keep his power and control over the state, regardless of what the people want or how they voted. …Ousting elected officials because [DeSantis]
- [President Biden Signs Executive Order Implementing Bipartisan Military Justice Reforms](https://flnow.org/president-biden-signs-executive-order-implementing-bipartisan-military-justice-reforms/) - President Biden signed an Executive Order to implement historic, bipartisan military justice reforms that significantly strengthen how the military handles sexual assault cases. The Executive Order transfers key decision-making authorities from commanders to specialized, independent military prosecutors in cases of sexual assault, domestic violence, murder, and other serious offenses by amending the Uniform Code of
- [Warning! Be on the lookout for this Facebook Phishing Scam](https://flnow.org/warning-be-on-the-lookout-for-this-facebook-phishing-scam/) - If you manage any Facebook pages, watch out for messages sent to the page inbox claiming to be from Facebook or Meta which say your page is going to be disabled due to violations. This is a common scam and we are seeing it at a very high volume. IF YOU GET ONE OF THESE
- [JOIN THE PETITION DRIVE TO ENSURE THE “RIGHT TO CLEAN AND HEALTHY WATER” IN FLORIDA](https://flnow.org/join-the-petition-drive-to-ensure-the-right-to-clean-and-healthy-water-in-florida/) - For Immediate Release: September 10, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org TIME-SENSITIVE ACTION ALERT! JOIN THE PETITION DRIVE TO ENSURE THE “RIGHT TO CLEAN AND HEALTHY WATER” IN FLORIDA Florida NOW enthusiastically joins more than 200 other organizations, businesses, and local governments in supporting the proposed “Right to Clean and
- [A WHITE SUPREMACIST KILLED 3 BLACK MEN IN A JACKSONVILLE MASS SHOOTING LAST SATURDAY](https://flnow.org/a-white-supremacist-killed-3-black-men-in-a-jacksonville-mass-shooting-last-saturday/) - For Immediate Release: August 29, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org THE OUTCRY OF THE LOSS OF INNOCENT LIVES AND THE POLITICAL HYPOCRISY FOCUSED ATTENTION ON
- [CONTINUED DESANTIS ABUSE OF POWER FOR POLITICAL GAIN](https://flnow.org/continued-desantis-abuse-of-power-for-political-gain/) - For Immediate Release: August 26, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org SUSPENDED A 2nd FLORIDA ELECTED STATE ATTORNEY: MONIQUE WORRELL, OF THE 9TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT (ORANGE-OSCEOLA
- [THE FLORIDA NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN ISSUES AN URGENT TRAVEL ADVISORY AGAINST FLORIDA](https://flnow.org/the-florida-national-organization-for-women-issues-an-urgent-travel-advisory-against-florid/) - For Immediate Release: July 22, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org THE STATE OF FLORIDA HAS BECOME DANGEROUS FOR PEOPLE TO VISIT; RELOCATE; ATTEND SCHOOLS, UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES; AND MORE Debbie Deland, President of Florida NOW said, “We join the
- [RACIAL EQUITY & DIVERSITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION IS A NATIONAL  IMPERATIVE](https://flnow.org/racial-equity-diversity-in-higher-education-is-a-national-imperative/) - For Immediate Release: July 14, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org ON JUNE 29, 2023, THE U.S. SUPREME COURT STRUCK DOWN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION IN ADMISSION POLICIES AT HARVARD & THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA REJECTING AFFIRMATIVE ACTION IS REGRESSIVE, DIVISIVE & SUBSCRIBES TO MODERN-DAY JIM CROW/NEO-CONFEDERATE IDEOLOGY RACIAL EQUITY & DIVERSITY IN
- [ONE CHAOTIC YEAR AFTER ROE V. WADE OVERTURNED](https://flnow.org/one-chaotic-year-after-roe-v-wade-overturned/) - For Immediate Release: June 26th, 2023 One year ago the Supreme Court decided to remove constitutional protection for safe and legal abortions in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. Virtually overnight, a rash of radically restrictive abortion bans were unleashed in conservative-dominated state legislatures, directly targeting women and criminally threatening doctors. Among the most
- [JUNETEENTH: AN ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN CELEBRATION TO PROMOTE AND CULTIVATE KNOWLEDGE AND APPRECIATION OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE](https://flnow.org/juneteenth-an-annual-african-american-celebration-to-promote-and-cultivate-knowledge-and-appreciation-of-african-american-history-and-culture/) - For Immediate Release: June 18, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW A LONG TIME COMING: Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day or Jubilee Day, is the commemoration for the ending of slavery in the United States. The date commemorates 158 years since the Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas. On June
- [Release: Jim Crow Returns to FL](https://flnow.org/release-jim-crow-returns-to-fl/) - For Immediate Release: June 16, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org JIM CROW RETURNS TO FLORIDA - DeSantis STYLE Debbie Deland, President of FL NOW said that “DeSantis’s unprecedented sprint to autocracy, in lockstep with the 2023 Florida legislature’s supermajority, has been formally unleashed. The supermajority of the Legislature and DeSantis are racists, misogynists,
- [FL NOW Working To Put Abortion On The Ballot](https://flnow.org/fl-now-working-to-put-abortion-on-the-ballot/) - For Immediate Release: June 6, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org (mailto:president@flnow.org) TIME-SENSITIVE ACTION ALERT! JOIN THE PETITION DRIVE TO “LIMIT GOVERNMENT INTERFERENCE WITH ABORTION” Governor DeSantis signed into law the 6-week abortion ban in the darkness of night on April 13, 2023. This law, like the 15-week ban before it, is
- [JOIN THE PETITION DRIVE TO “LIMIT GOVERNMENT  INTERFERENCE WITH ABORTION”](https://flnow.org/join-the-petition-drive-to-limit-government-interference-with-abortion/) - For Immediate Release: June 6, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org TIME-SENSITIVE ACTION ALERT! JOIN THE PETITION DRIVE TO “LIMIT GOVERNMENT INTERFERENCE WITH ABORTION” Governor DeSantis signed into law the 6-week abortion ban in the darkness of night on April 13, 2023. This law, like the 15-week ban before it,
- [Jim Crow Returns to Florida - DeSantis Style](https://flnow.org/jim-crow-returns-to-florida-desantis-style/) - For Immediate Release: June 1, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org JIM CROW RETURNS TO FLORIDA - DeSantis STYLE Debbie Deland, President of FL NOW said that “DeSantis’s unprecedented sprint to autocracy, in lockstep with the 2023 Florida legislature’s supermajority, has been formally unleashed. The supermajority of the Legislature and DeSantis are racists, misogynists,
- [“Captain Underpants” of Polk County Sheriff Office Accused of Politically Motivated Arrest](https://flnow.org/captain-underpants/) - “Captain Underpants” of Polk County Sheriff Office Accused of Politically Motivated Arrest Pro-Abortion Activist Jailed For Tossing a Pair of Clean Panties Near a PCSO Captain at the Opening of Lakeland Anti-Abortion Center Contact: Kat Duesterhaus, communications@flnow.org, 772.267,6353 LAKELAND, FL— On Tuesday May 16th 2023, a pair of new panties landed between Polk County Sheriff’s
- [April 12, 2023 Press Release from Debbie DeLand, President of FL NOW](https://flnow.org/news/) - Debbie Deland, President of FL NOW, said, “Floridians will not put up with this ban. It attacks all women and people who can get pregnant rights. Forcing pregnancy is un-American and overrides free will. It is scary to see a critical element of our democracy, the separation of church and state, blatantly ignored. Forcing one minority’s position
- [Kat Duesterhaus @ OccupyTally Press Release. 4/4/23](https://flnow.org/news-2/) - We’re here today because our rights are being violated. Not only our state constitutional rights to privacy, which includes our personal healthcare decisions, but as we were out against the near total abortion ban our 1st Amendment rights were also violated. I’m calling for the City of Tallahassee to drop all charges against out peaceful
- [Beware Women, Families, Democracy/ Press Release from Debbie Deland, FLNOW President](https://flnow.org/beware-women-families-democracy-press-release-from-debbie-deland-flnow-president/) - A VIRTUAL BAN ON ABORTION PASSED THE FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FIRST COMMITTEE First Nazis went for the Gays, Gypsies, mentally ill, disabled, intellectuals, teachers, scientists, books, and Jews. At least half this list is already being attacked in Florida by its Governor and its Legislature’s supermajority as they force horrifying laws onto people
- [Register NOW for the 2023 State Conference!](https://flnow.org/register-now-for-the-2023-state-conference/) - We enthusiastically invite you to register for the 2023 FL NOW Annual State Conference Friday, May 19th - Sunday, May 21st. Our theme for this year is "Woke Women." We will be at The Florida Hotel, Orlando, FL again this year, which is a lovely facility for those of you who couldn't make it last
- [Action Alerts are coming to your inbox! PLEASE ACT QUICKLY](https://flnow.org/action-alerts-are-coming-to-your-inbox-please-act-quickly/) - Please be on the lookout for, and respond quickly to, ACTION ALERTS from Florida NOW. We are facing a barrage of bad bills in this 2023 Legislative Session, including a near total ban on abortion, and we need all hands on deck to express our dissent! If you are not receiving email from Florida NOW
- [Prepare for Job Interviews](https://flnow.org/prepare-for-job-interviews/) - https://www.ireviews.com/interview-resources/
- [President Biden's State Of The Union Address Was Uplifting](https://flnow.org/president-bidens-state-of-the-union-address-was-uplifting/) - BIDEN SHOWED ALL AMERICANS HOW A TOUGH SPEECH CAN BE DELIVERED WITH DIGNITY, RESPECT, FOCUS, AND TRUTH On Tuesday, February 7, 2023, Biden recounted his administration’s accomplishments, particularly on behalf of women and people of color. He spoke in bipartisan terms and congratulated Congress on its bipartisan laws, like the infrastructure bill already having an impact.
- [Governor DeSantis Must Be Stopped Now!](https://flnow.org/governor-desantis-must-be-stopped-now/) - HIS 'CULTURE WARS' ARE RACIST, UNDEMOCRATIC, AND PERVERT FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND PRINCIPLES OF U.S. AND FLORIDA GOVERNANCE! THE EGREGIOUS LAWS AND BILLS SUPPORTING DESANTIS'S RUSH TOWARD AUTOCRACY ARE IN PROGRESS! White Supremacist ideology has been FORCED on the people in Florida since 2019 by the DeSantis Administration. As a result, almost daily, a democratic institution
- [As Congress Convenes, Over 100 Women’s Groups Urge Lawmakers to Focus on Gender Equity](https://flnow.org/as-congress-convenes-over-100-womens-groups-urge-lawmakers-to-focus-on-gender-equity/) - “We deserve leaders who prioritize gender justice,” urge women’s groups in a letter to Congress. “As Congress kicks off in 2023, we are making sure our collective voice is heard.” Congress is back in session, and feminist leaders are making clear: Gender equity must be a priority. A coalition of top women’s rights- and
- [January 12, 2023. Greater Orlando NOW Representation at the Central FL Legislator Delegation](https://flnow.org/january-12-2023-greater-orlando-now-representation-at-the-central-fl-legislator-delegation/) - FL NOW and Greater Orlando NOW were represented at the Central FL Legislator Delegation held Jan 12. The delegation of legislators, both GOP and Democrat wanted to hear from the community about issues and problems. There were speakers from a lot of non-profits. We were there from 9a to 6:45p. All the legislators hung and
- [NOW Applauds Senate Passage of Respect for Marriage Act](https://flnow.org/now-applauds-senate-passage-of-respect-for-marriage-act/) - January 12, 2023. Greater Orlando NOW Representation at the Central FL Legislator Delegation FL NOW and Greater Orlando NOW were represented at the Central FL Legislator Delegation held Jan 12. The delegation of legislators, both GOP and Democrat wanted to hear from the community about issues and problems. There were speakers from a lot of
- [2022 FLNOW Conference Recap](https://flnow.org/2022-flnow-conference-recap/) - Debbie DeLand, FLNOW President Saturday Was Issue Packed: Reproductive Rights LGBTQ+ Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Women Of Color and the Feminist Movement Chapter Management Improving Law Enforcement Sexual Assault Response Sunday Was ALL Business Officer Reports Ed Fund Report Resolutions Bylaws / Operating
- [NOW President Testifies Against Puerto Rico's Extreme Abortion Bans](https://flnow.org/now-president-testifies-against-puerto-ricos-extreme-abortion-bans/) - Released on October 26, 2022 Statement of National NOW President Christian F. Nunes Today, I testified in front of the Comision de lo Juridico/Committee on Legal Matters of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives by video in opposition to legislation that would further restrict access to abortion—which remains legal in Puerto Rico. Last April, I
- [NOW Takes Action on Indigenous People's Day](https://flnow.org/now-takes-action-on-indigenous-peoples-day/) - Released on October 10, 2022 NOW is proud to observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the second Monday of October. This is a significant occasion to facilitate important conversations around the mistreatment of Indigenous people throughout history, including up until the present. This day should honor the cultures of Indigenous people rather than the colonizer,
- [Support Women, Privacy and the Florida Constitution](https://flnow.org/support-women-privacy-and-the-florida-constitution/) - Abortion is up and down the ballot this year and that includes the Florida Supreme Court. Anti-abortion hardliners have asked the Florida Supreme Court to change the meaning of "privacy" and say women have no right to an abortion. These hardliners are confident they have the Florida Supreme Court on their side and want to
- [NOW Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month](https://flnow.org/now-recognizes-domestic-violence-awareness-month/) - NOW Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month Released on October 4, 2022 October’s Actions Will Highlight The Impact And Scope of Intimate Partner Violence—In All Its Forms OTR Statement by Christian F. Nunes WASHINGTON, D.C. — 35 years ago, October was designated as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) with the purpose of uplifting survivors, organizations,
- [President Biden](https://flnow.org/president-biden/) - NOW Supports President Biden’s Latest Guidelines On Reproductive Rights Released on October 4, 2022 Washington D.C. – President Biden announced new guidelines on reproductive rights 100 days after the overturning of Roe v. Wade in the second meeting of the Task Force on Reproductive Healthcare Access. The task force members comprised of top OB-GYNs shared
- [May 14th Bans Off Our Bodies](https://flnow.org/may-14th-bans-off-our-bodies/) - Our Worst Fears Confirmed Abortion is still legal. It's still your right. But the Supreme Court is prepared to end your constitutional right to abortion. Our country is facing an abortion access crisis. By this summer, 26 states could move to ban abortion — affecting 36 million women, plus more people who can become pregnant.
- [The Alimony Bill is Unconstitutional and Will Come With a Body Count](https://flnow.org/the-alimony-bill-is-unconstitutional-and-will-come-with-a-body-count/) - FL NOW (National Organization for Women) Lobbyist Barbara DeVane released the following statement as the ‘Dissolution of Marriage,” CS/SB 1796, heads for the Governor’s desk. Statement from Barbara DeVane, Florida NOW Lobbyist: “Florida NOW has identified many serious issues with the ‘Dissolution of Marriage” bill – SB 1796. First, there is no problem with current
- [Florida NOW Statement Calling on Ron DeSantis as Governor of the Supposed “Free State of Florida”, to Veto Abortion Ban Bill.](https://flnow.org/florida-now-statement-calling-on-ron-desantis-as-governor-of-the-supposed-free-state-of-florida-to-veto-abortion-ban-bill/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 11, 2022 Contact: Kat Duesterhaus | communications@flnow.org | 772-267-6353 Orlando – Today, Debbie Deland, president of Florida National Organization for Women, released the following statement in anticipation of HB 5, Florida’s abortion ban bill, arriving on the Governor’s desk for approval or veto. Statement from Debbie Deland, president of Florida NOW: “Ron DeSantis travels the state
- [NEW from NOW! Action Alert Digest](https://flnow.org/new-from-now-action-alert-digest/) - Please note the following site where we will post updates about current Action Alerts for our FL NOW Members & Friends: https://ffw.my.canva.site/
- [FL NOW Will Do "Whatever It Takes" To Fight For Reproductive Freedom in Florida](https://flnow.org/fl-now-will-do-whatever-it-takes-to-fight-for-reproductive-freedom-in-florida/) - Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) announces a forceful statewide campaign to protect reproductive health and rights. Leaders for the organization pledge to do “whatever it takes” to ensure Floridians’ reproductive rights. TALLAHASSEE- Faced with the introduction of a statewide abortion ban bill (H.B. 5) by Florida Representative Grail (R-Vero Beach), Florida NOW President Debbie Deland
- [2022 Florida NOW State Council Meeting](https://flnow.org/2022-florida-now-state-council-meeting/) - Time for our first-- scheduled for February 6th at 1 pm on Zoom. All at-large members and chapter delegates please register here: https://forms.gle/8aSkF2BAt9ffPDE37 Important stuff on the agenda include electing a Membership Director / Co-Director and our Communication Director (someone is sure to nominate Kat Duesterhaus who has been doing a great job on an
- [Jan 12: Florida NOW to head to Tallahassee](https://flnow.org/jan-12-tallahassee/) - Reproductive Rights Supporters Mobilize to the State Capitol on Wednesday, January 12 POSTPONED REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS RALLY WILL BE FEBRUARY 22. DETAILS TO BE PROVIDED. On January 10, the Florida Legislature will convene for the 2022 Legislative Session. Our need to defend reproductive freedom is a sure thing. We will rally on February 22nd since January
- [Officer elections to be held at State Conference](https://flnow.org/officer-elections/) - One of the most important agenda items for the 2021 Florida NOW State Conference is the election of new officers, who will be serving a two year term. If you wish to be a candidate, please email the following to to membership director, Kathy Mayo, at by 6:00 pm on November 26, 2021: your name
- [Florida NOW's 2021 State Conference -- Election Results!](https://flnow.org/florida-nows-2021-state-conference-election-results/) - We'll post more reports on the State Conference -- right now, here are our election results! Thank you to all the conference attendees - 72 signed up! And congratulations to the officers elected at the December 4th plenary session -- *President: Debbie Deland *Vice President: Sandi Weeks *Secretary: Diane Lebedeff *Treasurer: Suzanne Southard And, grateful
- [FL NOW Annual 2021 Conference](https://flnow.org/fl-now-annual-2021-conference/) - Annual Conference Dates are Saturday, December 4 and Sunday, December 5 YOU ARE INVITED! The FL NOW Annual Conference will be on Saturday, December 4 starting at 11am and Sunday, December 5 starting at noon. The Conference will be virtual via Zoom. Please visit the conference event page now for more information.
- [Important Message from Florida NOW](https://flnow.org/important-message-from-florida-now/) - Please be patient with us as we are undergoing much needed change! We are unapologetically not sorry for being anti-racist and taking a stand for intersectional feminism. We believe the interrelationships that exist among gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, ability, gender or sexual identity, religion, or ethnicity (and so on) can often lead to discrimination
- [Florida NOW Racial Justice Task Force Stands in Solidarity with the Latest Victims of Police Violence](https://flnow.org/florida-now-racial-justice-task-force-stands-in-solidarity-with-the-latest-victims-of-police-violence/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AUGUST 24, 2020 CONTACT: ROBIN D. HARRIS FLORIDA NOW RACIAL JUSTICE TASK FORCE RACIALJUSTICE@FLNOW.ORG Orlando, Fl----On August 7, 2020, 22 year old Salaythis Melvin, a young black man, was executed by an Orange County Deputy. The officer claimed he feared Melvin was reaching for a gun. However, Melvin was shot in the
- [Safety Harbor Mayor Falls Under Pressure to Anti-Black Lives Matter Residents](https://flnow.org/safety-harbor-mayor-falls-under-pressure-to-anti-black-lives-matter-residents/) - NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robin Harris FL NOW Racial Justice Task Force & Legislative Concerns harris4six@gmail.com Safety Harbor Mayor Falls Under Pressure to Anti-Black Lives Matter Residents A hashtag. A response. An outrage. Heartfelt. It ignited. It moved. #Blacklivesmatter resonated with individuals that repeatedly watched Black lives executed by hands of police or White
- [NOW Celebrates the Life of John Lewis — And We Pledge to Honor His Legacy](https://flnow.org/now-celebrates-the-life-of-john-lewis-and-we-pledge-to-honor-his-legacy/) - Released on July 18, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – At Congressman John Lewis’s last appearance in Selma, Alabama to commemorate the historic 1965 march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge—where state troopers launched a vicious attack on peaceful demonstrators that left him with a fractured skull,–– he returned to a message that he advocated for throughout his life, the power of the right to vote. Already diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer, John Lewis looked back on that day
- [Trump’s Effort to Deny Asylum to Victims of Violence is Inhumane](https://flnow.org/trumps-effort-to-deny-asylum-to-victims-of-violence-is-inhumane/) - Released on July 17, 2020 WASHINGTON – One of the cruelest initiatives yet proposed by the Trump Administration threatens to send victims of violence applying for asylum in the U.S. back home to face even more violence or perhaps death. The National Organization for Women (NOW) and our allies in the domestic violence and sexual assault prevention communities have worked for
- [Washington’s Football Team Must Change Its Toxic Culture—Not Just Its](https://flnow.org/washingtons-football-team-must-change-its-toxic-culture-not-just-its/) - Released on July 17, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Washington Post’s extensive reporting on years of sexual harassment and verbal abuse directed at female employees, and ignored or condoned by top executives within Washington’s football organization is shocking, but not surprising. The culture of contempt for women, violence against women, and disregard for women’s safety has long been a blight on the NFL. Team owner Daniel Snyder
- [National Coalition of Progressive Groups Push DNC To Adopt Bold, Inclusive Vision for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights and Justice in 2020](https://flnow.org/national-coalition-of-progressive-groups-push-dnc-to-adopt-bold-inclusive-vision-for-sexual-and-reproductive-health-rights-and-justice-in-2020/) - Released on July 9, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a joint statement this week, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, NARAL Pro-Choice America, Ultraviolet Action, National Organization for Women (NOW), National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Population Connection Action Fund, and All* Above All Action Fund called on the Democratic Party to deepen its advocacy for reproductive freedom. Together, the
- [SCOTUS Ruling on Birth Control Endangers Reproductive Health of Millions](https://flnow.org/scotus-ruling-on-birth-control-endangers-reproductive-health-of-millions/) - Released on July 8, 2020 WASHINGTON ,D.C. – Religion is no excuse for bigotry—but the Supreme Court has carved out a new exemption for employers who want to impose their personal beliefs over the health and rights of their workers. By allowing virtually any employer or university to opt-out of the Affordable Care Act’s requirement that contraception be covered by
- [NOW Demands that the ERA is Enshrined in the Constitution](https://flnow.org/now-demands-that-the-era-is-enshrined-in-the-constitution/) - Released on July 1, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – NOW and over 50 women’s rights and civil rights organizations filed a joint amicus curiae brief (with the assistance of Winston & Strawn LLP) urging the enshrinement of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) in the Constitution. The brief was submitted in support of a lawsuit brought by the Attorneys General of Virginia, Illinois, and Nevada – all three states having recently passed ratification measures. Their lawsuit argues that the
- [Supreme Court Upholds Abortion Rights In Louisiana – But We’ve Still Got Work To Do](https://flnow.org/supreme-court-upholds-abortion-rights-in-louisiana-but-weve-still-got-work-to-do/) - Released on June 29, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Supreme Court’s decision today in June Medical Services v. Russo struck down a Louisiana law imposing targeted restrictions on abortion providers (TRAP laws) that the Court had previously found unconstitutional in Texas. TRAP laws are not designed to protect women’s health, but rather to expand the power of patriarchal church leaders and conservative Republicans and
- [George Floyd Justice In Policing Act Passes House—Senate Must Strengthen Bill](https://flnow.org/george-floyd-justice-in-policing-act-passes-house-senate-must-strengthen-bill/) - Released on June 26, 2020 WAHSINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives took a step toward justice by passing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2020, but Mitch McConnell has already signaled he has no intention of taking up this measure in the Senate. Senators who want to squarely address racism and violence in law enforcement disagree. NOW joined the Leadership Conference on
- [Senate Confirms Wilson, Continuing Attack on Reproductive Rights](https://flnow.org/senate-confirms-wilson-continuing-attack-on-reproductive-rights/) - Released on June 24, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Moments ago, the Senate voted to confirm Judge Cory Wilson to the already conservative Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. This court has jurisdiction over courts across Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas – three states with severely limited abortion access. By adding Wilson to the bench, the Trump administration and Senate Republicans have made this court a monumental threat to women’s rights and reproductive freedom
- [Replace Mitch McConnell’s Empty Promises on Police Reform With Real Action](https://flnow.org/replace-mitch-mcconnells-empty-promises-on-police-reform-with-real-action/) - Released on June 24, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate’s failure to move decisively on comprehensive policing reform underscores the urgent need for Congress to follow the lead of their constituents, who overwhelmingly support an end to abusive policing practices, state-sanctioned violence and systemic brutality against Black people at the hands of law enforcement. Senate Democrats are right
- [On Title IX’s Anniversary, We Redouble Our Commitment to Ending Discrimination Against Women](https://flnow.org/on-title-ixs-anniversary-we-redouble-our-commitment-to-ending-discrimination-against-women/) - Released on June 23, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today marks the 48th anniversary of Title IX, the landmark legislation that set out to ensure equal educational opportunities regardless of gender. This civil rights law has opened up doors that had long been closed to women and girls, allowing more to participate in athletics programs, earn scholarships, attend college, study in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and math) and pursue advanced degrees. Title
- [NOW Honors Juneteenth](https://flnow.org/now-honors-juneteenth/) - Released on June 19, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, June 19th, the National Organization for Women recognizes Juneteenth, a holiday honoring the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people were free in Texas. Although Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation more than two years earlier, this day marks the liberation of 250,000 Texans. On June 19th, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger publicly
- [Resignations Are Not Enough—Georgia Needs Structural Police Reform to Stop Systemic Racism](https://flnow.org/resignations-are-not-enough-georgia-needs-structural-police-reform-to-stop-systemic-racism/) - Released on June 18, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – NOW applauds Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms for announcing the departure of police chief Erika Shields, and calling for the immediate termination of Garrett Rolfe, the officer who killed Rayshard Brooks in the parking lot of a Wendy’s drive through. But firing Officer Rolfe won’t quiet the outrage, or address the
- [Justin Walker Confirmed—The Senate Shamed](https://flnow.org/justin-walker-confirmed-the-senate-shamed/) - Released on June 18, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate’s vote to confirm Judge Justin Walker to the prestigious Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit is a shameful example of how Mitch McConnell has turned the U.S. Senate into a right-wing confirmation factory for unqualified, inexperienced, extremist federal judges. Judge Walker is in many ways the worst
- [The Reversal of Health Protections for Transgender Patients Is Hateful and Cruel](https://flnow.org/the-reversal-of-health-protections-for-transgender-patients-is-hateful-and-cruel/) - Released on June 16, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, the four-year anniversary of the 2016 PULSE nightclub shooting and during Pride month, the Trump administration announced its final rule – a slap in the face erasing health care protections for transgender Americans. During a global pandemic when health disparities are revealing deep inequities in our system, this rule perpetuates continued discrimination, structural racism, transphobia, and homophobia. This action makes it easier for doctors, hospitals, and insurance
- [Landmark Supreme Court Decision Protects LGBTQIA+ Employees](https://flnow.org/landmark-supreme-court-decision-protects-lgbtqia-employees/) - Released on June 15, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Supreme Court took a stand for freedom, justice, and equality today when it ruled that federal anti-discrimination laws protect gay and transgender employees. NOW Foundation was an amici in this case, which defended the rights of two employees who were fired for being gay, and another who
- [NOW Demands Equal Pay for Mothers](https://flnow.org/now-demands-equal-pay-for-mothers/) - Released on June 4, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, NOW recognizes Mom’s Equal Pay Day and acknowledges the enormous wage disparities between mothers and fathers in our nation. Especially in the present moment, sex-based pay discrimination prevents mothers from receiving equal pay for equal work and makes the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic even more devastating. We know that in 2019, on average, mothers were
- [Black Trans Lives Matter: Talking Back about Tony McDade](https://flnow.org/black-trans-lives-matter-talking-back-about-tony-mcdade/) - by Delilah Amilcar Pierre, Head of Communications – Tallahassee Community Action Committee (TCAC) TALLAHASSEE, FL – In a recent article written by reporter Robbie Gaffney and published by WFSU, a member of the Mayor of Tallahassee’s LGBTQ Advisory Council, Janel Diaz stated: “We have to call a spade a spade… Tony was profiled as a black
- [Ahmaud Arbery’s Murder Was Also A Hate Crime](https://flnow.org/ahmaud-arberys-murder-was-also-a-hate-crime/) - Released on June 3, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Organization for Women has signed on to a letter calling on the Department of Justice to open a full and thorough hate crime investigation into the horrific killing of Ahmaud Arbery, who was chased down and shot to death by armed vigilantes while peacefully jogging in a
- [NOW Demands Justice for George Floyd](https://flnow.org/now-demands-justice-for-george-floyd/) - Released on May 27, 2020 WASHINGTON – The shocking video out of Minneapolis shows another black man, George Floyd, being brutalized by another white police officer as he kneels on the prostrate man’s neck, pressing the full weight of his body on his handcuffed, unarmed victim. Mr. Floyd is seen gasping and crying out for help, shouting
- [The “Heroes Act” Isn’t Politics—It’s Essential, Especially For Women](https://flnow.org/the-heroes-act-isnt-politics-its-essential-especially-for-women/) - Released on May 15, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The $3 trillion coronavirus aid package to be voted on by the House today has been called a “Democratic wish list” and a “1,800-page press release” by Republican critics, with Mitch McConnell saying Congress should hit “pause” until after Memorial Day for further relief for American workers and families. But we
- [Mrs. America Tackles Marriage and Gender Roles in Episode 5](https://flnow.org/mrs-america-tackles-marriage-and-gender-roles-in-episode-5/) - The year is 1974. Thirty-three states of the 38 required have ratified the Equal Rights Amendment. Traditional gender roles are still running rampant. In episode 5 of Mrs. America, we explore what it means to be in a marriage and how eerily similar it feels to be a woman in a traditional one or a “non-traditional” one through
- [Historic Coalition of Women’s and Civil Rights Groups File Amicus Brief to Stop COVID-19 Order that Intends to Ban and Criminalize Abortion](https://flnow.org/historic-coalition-of-womens-and-civil-rights-groups-file-amicus-brief-to-stop-covid-19-order-that-intends-to-ban-and-criminalize-abortion/) - Washington, DC – An historic coalition of women’s rights, civil rights, human rights, and reproductive justice groups including the National Organization for Women Foundation, the Feminist Majority Foundation and Legal Momentum, joined by 18 other organizations, including In Our Own Voice: The National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights,
- [NOW Partners with Coronavirus Care Fund to Offer Relief for Domestic Workers](https://flnow.org/now-partners-with-coronavirus-care-fund-to-offer-relief-for-domestic-workers/) - Statement by the National Organization for Women and the National Domestic Workers Alliance 04.17.2020 WASHINGTON, D.C.— In 2019, 91.5 percent of all domestic workers in the United States were women, and 57.1 percent were people of color. Now the Coronavirus is decimating the livelihoods of many domestic employees as their employers close off their homes, and those who are still employed are risking their safety to keep working. A high
- [Wisconsin Voting Ruling Puts Lives and Rights in Grave Danger](https://flnow.org/wisconsin-voting-ruling-puts-lives-and-rights-in-grave-danger/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Wisconsin NOW President Lindsay Lemmer 04.07.2020 WASHINGTON, D.C.— Voter suppression is one of the most insidious forms of racism this country faces. When even one vote is suppressed it makes a mockery of our Constitution and our ideals. Yet the conservative majority of the Wisconsin Supreme Court is playing partisan political games during a pandemic and
- [While The Courts—And Anti-Abortion Extremist Governors—Play Politics, Women’s Lives Are In Danger](https://flnow.org/while-the-courts-and-anti-abortion-extremist-governors-play-politics-womens-lives-are-in-danger/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Washington, D.C. — Governors have just one job that matters today—to keep their citizens safe, healthy and protected from the coronavirus. But anti-abortion politicians like Texas Governor Greg Abbott, as well as Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, are using the pandemic as an excuse to fuel their
- [All Women’s Wage Gap Obscures Diversity in Earnings ](https://flnow.org/all-womens-wage-gap obscures-diversity-in-earnings /) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today’s Equal Pay Day marks how far into the year women must work to be paid what men were paid on December 31st of the previous year. This date highlights a wage gap based on a ratio of median annual earnings for all women as compared to the median for all men: the wage gap for
- [Tell Texas Governor: Coronavirus Is No Excuse to Advance Your Anti-Abortion Agenda](https://flnow.org/tell-texas-governor-coronavirus-is-no-excuse-to-advance-your-anti-abortion-agenda/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt 03.26.2020 WASHINGTON, D.C. — Anti-abortion extremists are using the COVID-19 pandemic to accomplish what they can’t get done in the courts—a total ban on abortion care. More than 50 anti-abortion groups have written to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar calling on public health officials to tell abortion providers to cease and desist
- [NOW Celebrates Intersectional Feminists This Women’s History Month](https://flnow.org/now-celebrates-intersectional-feminists-this-womens-history-month/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON, D.C.— Throughout Women’s History Month, and especially on International Women’s Day, NOW celebrates the women past and present who risked everything and worked tirelessly for women’s rights. They countered attacks on the constitutional right to equality for women in the United States and rallied to secure the right to vote. But as we prepare to celebrate the historic 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment this
- [Supreme Court Hears Case That Could Decide Future of Roe](https://flnow.org/supreme-court-hears-case-that-could-decide-future-of-roe/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON, D.C.— When Justice Anthony Kennedy retired from the U. S. Supreme Court, Donald Trump made a deal with religious conservatives. He promised to nominate a fifth vote against abortion rights in return for their continued blind devotion and campaign contributions. This week, anti-abortion extremists stand to collect. The
- [NOW Strongly Supports the Women’s Health Protection Act](https://flnow.org/now-strongly-supports-the-womens-health-protection-act/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – NOW is a strong supporter of the Women’s Health Protection Act, and we applaud Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.) and Health Subcommittee Chairwoman Anna G. Eshoo (D-Calif.) for their leadership. Today, Rep. Eshoo will chair a hearing entitled “Protecting Women’s Access to
- [We Call for A Strong Majority Vote to Remove the Arbitrary Timeline on the ERA](https://flnow.org/we-call-for-a-strong-majority-vote-to-remove-the-arbitrary-timeline-on-the-era/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — NOW members have been working tirelessly for the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) for decades—generations even. Some NOW members who marched for the ERA in the 1970s are being joined by their daughters and granddaughters at rallies and grassroots actions today. On Thursday, February 13, the House of
- [Today, Women Made History—A Women’s History Museum](https://flnow.org/today-women-made-history-a-womens-history-museum/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation to establish the Smithsonian Women’s History Museum in the nation’s capital. This victory has been a priority for female lawmakers in Congress like Rep. Carolyn Maloney, the author of the legislation. In 2014, Rep. Maloney’s bill passed overwhelmingly, with just 33 Republicans
- [Wage Inequity Persists Throughout AAPI Communities](https://flnow.org/wage-inequity-persists-throughout-aapi-communities/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C.—This February 11th, NOW recognizes Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Women’s Equal Pay Day. There are persistent wage disparities between AAPI women and white men, as well as within AAPI communities. Far too many AAPI women are not receiving equal pay for equal work, which prevents them from supporting themselves and their families and investing in their future.
- [NOW Event to Examine Intersects of Gender, Health, Economics, Violence and Race](https://flnow.org/now-event-to-examine-intersects-of-gender-health-economics-violence-and-race/) - Media Statement the National Organization for Women: Washington, D.C. – In honor of Black History Month, the National Organization for Women (NOW) is proud to present the Racial Justice Summit and Congressional Briefing: Addressing the Intersects of Gender, Health, Economics, Violence and Race, sponsored by U.S. Congresswoman Gwen Moore. Special guest speakers will cover topics including immigration rights, maternal mortality, voter suppression and economic justice. What: NOW’s Racial
- [Honoring African American Feminists Throughout History](https://flnow.org/honoring-african-american-feminists-throughout-history/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Vice President Christian F. Nunes: WASHINGTON, D.C.–Each February, the National Organization for Women commemorates Black History Month to honor the lives of African Americans who have shaped our nation and its culture. Our country and our communities would not be the same without the efforts of people
- [First We Marched, Then We Voted, Now We Sue](https://flnow.org/first-we-marched-then-we-voted-now-we-sue/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – NOW applauds Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford for filing a civil rights suit against the Trump Administration to recognize that following Virginia’s historic vote to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, the ERA is now the 28th amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The
- [NOW Celebrates ERA Ratification Day in Virginia](https://flnow.org/now-celebrates-era-ratification-day-in-virginia/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: RICHMOND, VA — Today’s formal ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) in Virginia is a cause for celebration. This day has been a long, long time coming, and credit for this historic victory is due to the new leadership of the Virginia legislature—and the groundswell of feminist activists and voters who
- [Trump Uses Religion to Excuse Discrimination](https://flnow.org/trump-uses-religion-to-excuse-discrimination/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Trump Administration is shredding every Obama-era equal rights protection it can find—but they’re especially fierce when it comes to promoting evangelical extremism. Our democracy depends on a secular government that doesn’t elevate any single religion, maintains the separation between church and state and protects our freedom from
- [On Roe Day We Must Vow to Protect Abortion Care](https://flnow.org/on-roe-day-we-must-vow-to-protect-abortion-care/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Washington, D.C. — On January 22, 1973, the United States Supreme Court afforded Constitutional protection to women’s right to abortion care. Forty-seven years later, Roe v. Wade is still a critical victory for reproductive freedom, but it is one that is being chipped away piece by piece. In 2019 alone, according to the Guttmacher Institute, lawmakers
- [Why We March—And Won’t Stop Marching](https://flnow.org/why-we-march-and-wont-stop-marching/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Today a mass mobilization of activist women is rising up to march for women’s rights around the country, and NOW is proud to be part of these historic actions. We turn our attention to the power women have as citizens, activists and voters to defend women’s rights and elect feminist women and allies
- [Florida NOW 2020 State Conference](https://flnow.org/florida-now-2020-state-conference/) - Florida NOW State Conference Registration is now open. “Unite and Fight 2020: Focus on the Future NOW” April 17-19, 2020 Best Western Gateway Grand Hotel Gainesville, FL
- [We’re All Part of the History Being Made in Virginia Today](https://flnow.org/were-all-part-of-the-history-being-made-in-virginia-today/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: RICHMOND, VA – After a hundred-year journey full of heartbreaks and triumphs, the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) is poised to finally be part of the Constitution of the United States. NOW President Toni Van Pelt is standing on the floor of the Virginia’s House of Delegates today as they vote to become
- [NOW President Arrested at #FireDrillFriday](https://flnow.org/now-president-arrested-at-firedrillfriday/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C.— I was proud to join my fellow climate activists at Jane Fonda’s last Fire Drill Friday in Washington, D.C., before she heads back to L.A. We are answering the alarm sounded by Greta Thunberg and other young people who are reminding us every day that “there is no planet
- [Donald Trump and Bill Barr Distort the Law—Again](https://flnow.org/donald-trump-and-bill-barr-distort-the-law-again/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — It’s no surprise that President Donald Trump and Attorney General William Barr would unleash the full force of the Department of Justice to thwart ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). In a newly released legal opinion, the Office of Legal Counsel asserts that the 1979 deadline for passage “has expired and
- [ERA Lawsuit A Shameful Attempt to Prevent Equality](https://flnow.org/era-lawsuit-a-shameful-attempt-to-prevent-equality/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — A lawsuit by Alabama’s Attorney General to block the renewed push to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment is, as the ERA Coalition stated, “a shameful effort to keep women from gaining Constitutional equality.” This crowd of extremist state attorneys general continues to march in lockstep with
- [Vote on Impeachment Vital to Protecting Our Democracy](https://flnow.org/vote-on-impeachment-vital-to-protecting-our-democracy/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives’ vote to impeach President Donald J. Trump is a solemn step that will test our Constitutional rule of law. Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the most diverse House of Representatives in history are, in the Speaker’s words, acting as “custodians of the Constitution”
- [NCAA Must End the Predator Pipeline](https://flnow.org/ncaa-must-end-the-predator-pipeline/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – Hypocrisy and misogyny have long been hallmarks of the response from professional sports organizations when it comes to sexual assault committed by their players. As the just released investigation by the USA Today Network documents, the NCAA is a repeat offender when it comes to putting profits over people.
- [Violence Against Women, LGBTQIA+ Rights Still Ignored in Debates #AskThemMore](https://flnow.org/violence-against-women-lgbtqia-rights-still-ignored-in-debates-askthemmore/) - Statement by Chair of NOW PAC Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — While the Nov. 20th debate finally included questions on paid family leave and #MeToo, an updated analysis by the National Organization for Women Political Action Committee (NOW PAC) found that of the 470 questions asked of the Democratic presidential candidates so far, only a handful addressed topics most important to women
- [Harvey Weinstein’s Civil Settlement Doesn’t Let His Criminality Off The Hook](https://flnow.org/harvey-weinsteins-civil-settlement-doesnt-let-his-criminality-off-the-hook/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON, D.C. — The $25 million settlement that Harvey Weinstein and executives from his bankrupt film studio reached with some of the women who accused the producer of rape, sexual harassment and other criminal conduct must not be a “get out of jail free” card for Weinstein. The payout for the survivors
- [NOW Celebrates Feminist Champions on Human Rights Day](https://flnow.org/now-celebrates-feminist-champions-on-human-rights-day/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — December 10th is UN Human Rights Day, commemorating the day in 1948 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Eleanor Roosevelt was the first Chairwoman of the Commission on Human Rights and played an instrumental role in drafting the Declaration and communicating its message
- [NOW, RAICES Demand Humane Treatment of Women in Immigration Prisons](https://flnow.org/now-raices-demand-humane-treatment-of-women-in-immigration-prisons/) - Media Statement from the National Organization for Women: PHOENIX, ARIZ.– Gathering in a city that houses some of the worst immigration detention centers in the country, activists are rallying today with the National Organization for Women (NOW) and the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAICES) to Unlock the Future for immigrant women
- [Reject the Sexist System that Punishes Feminist Female Candidates](https://flnow.org/reject-the-sexist-system-that-punishes-feminist-female-candidates/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — What started as the most diverse field of presidential candidates in history has come to this: six white, mostly male candidates on the next Democratic debate stage. Senator Kamala Harris ended her campaign following a wave of negative publicity about dissension among her staff, shortfalls in fundraising and a perceived
- [In a Climate of Violence against Abortion Providers, Louisiana Abortion Law Could Wipe Out Abortion Access for Women](https://flnow.org/in-a-climate-of-violence-against-abortion-providers-louisiana-abortion-law-could-wipe-out-abortion-access-for-women/) - Statement from the Feminist Majority Foundation and the National Organization for Women (NOW) Foundation: The Feminist Majority Foundation (FMF), the National Organization for Women (NOW) Foundation, Southern Poverty Law Center, and Women’s Law Project filed an amicus brief in the June Medical Services v. Gee case that will be heard March 4, 2020 by the Supreme Court,
- [Rally with NOW and RAICES to Stop Trump Administration’s Abuse](https://flnow.org/rally-with-now-and-raices-to-stop-trump-administrations-abuse/) - Media Statement the National Organization for Women: PHOENIX, Ariz. – White House Senior Adviser Stephen Miller, a key architect of President Trump’s inhumane immigration policies, is making headlines as leaked emails show he allegedly circulated material linked to white nationalism. This is the man who has promoted some of Trump’s most hard-line actions, including locking away immigrant
- [Feminists: It’s Time to Step Up and Advocate for Latina Equal Pay](https://flnow.org/feminists-its-time-to-step-up-and-advocate-for-latina-equal-pay/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two years. That’s roughly how long it takes for Latina women to earn what White, non-Hispanic men earn in just one. In the time since the Equal Pay Act was passed in 1963 – fifty-six years ago – Latina women have made only twenty-eight years’ worth of the wages they’ve earned. Reporting at almost half the amount
- [NOW Demands Justice for Victims Of LGBTQIA+ Hate Crimes](https://flnow.org/now-demands-justice-for-victims-of-lgbtqia-hate-crimes/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ten years ago, President Obama signed the first significant pro-lesbian, pro-woman, pro-disability rights legislation, the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, named for two victims of horrific hate crimes that shocked the nation. That legislation has made an enormous difference in the last decade, but there’s more to be
- [The NFL Must Correct Double Standard with Violent Players](https://flnow.org/the-nfl-must-correct-double-standard-with-violent-players/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. – The NFL has once again proven where its priorities lie: with profits, not people. When Cleveland Brown’s defensive end Myles Garrett rips off an opposing quarterback’s helmet and hits him with it during a nationally televised game, he immediately gets suspended for the rest of the season. Fox Commentator Joe Buck called the incident “one of the worst things
- [New Analysis of Debate Question Shows Women’s Issues Ignored, It’s Time to #AskThemMore](https://flnow.org/new-analysis-of-debate-question-shows-womens-issues-ignored-its-time-to-askthemmore/) - Statement by Chair of NOW PAC Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Organization for Women Political Action Committee (NOW PAC) has analyzed the more than 400 questions asked of the Democratic presidential candidates during the four primary debates held since June. The fifth debate on November 20 will for the first moderated entirely by women—Rachel Maddow,
- [Houston Rally Amplifies Voices of Women and Girls Detained in Immigration Prisons](https://flnow.org/houston-rally-amplifies-voices-of-women-and-girls-detained-in-immigration-prisons/) - Statement from National NOW: HOUSTON, TEXAS – Gathering in the shadows of the Houston Contract Detention Facility, where a detainee died in July and which has been cited as having more deaths than most other facilities nationwide, activists are rallying today with the National Organization for Women and our Unlock the Future partners for the humane treatment of immigrant
- [Virginia Voters Say “ERA Yes!”](https://flnow.org/virginia-voters-say-era-yes/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt and VA NOW President Connie Cordovilla: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The results of the Virginia elections are a resounding affirmation of the power of grassroots action. NOW made electing a Virginia legislature that will protect women a top priority, and our members did what they do best. They organized, networked, knocked on doors,
- [Progress Marches Forward Today for the ERA](https://flnow.org/progress-marches-forward-today-for-the-era/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The march towards constitutional equality for women made up for years of lost ground today, as House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler’s resolution to eliminate the ratification deadline for the Equal Rights Amendment was voted out of the committee. NOW has been on the front lines of advocacy
- [This November, Change the Narrative for American Indian and Native Alaskan Women](https://flnow.org/this-november-change-the-narrative-for-american-indian-and-native-alaskan-women/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – A past marked by violent oppression and exclusion, and a future left open for today’s leaders to mold– that’s what we observe during Native American Heritage Month. At present, two Native American women serve in Congress. Deb Haaland (Laguna-Pueblo) of New Mexico and Sharice Davis (Ho-Chunk
- [The Time is NOW: Unlock the Future for Women and Girls in Immigration Prisons](https://flnow.org/the-time-is-now-unlock-the-future-for-women-and-girls-in-immigration-prisons/) - Statement from the National Organization for Women: HOUSTON, TEXAS – Immigrant families are being inhumanely locked away in horrific and immoral detention facilities in Texas and around the nation and women and girls are suffering the most. Those fleeing to the U.S. are often seeking refuge from sexual violence, assault and poverty and they deserve
- [Missouri Must Stop Tracking Planned Parenthood Patients’ Menstrual Cycles](https://flnow.org/missouri-must-stop-tracking-planned-parenthood-patients-menstrual-cycles/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. –– You have no privacy. You have no rights. Your body belongs to the state. That’s the message Missouri women are getting with the news that the state is monitoring the menstrual cycles of women who receive abortion care from Planned Parenthood. The state health director, Randall
- [The Time is NOW: Unlock the Future for Women and Girls in Immigration Prisons ](https://flnow.org/the-time-is-now-unlock-the-future-for-women-and-girls in-immigration-prisons /) - Media Advisory the National Organization for Women: HOUSTON, TEXAS – Immigrant families are being inhumanely locked away in horrific and immoral detention facilities in Texas and around the nation and women and girls are suffering the most. Those fleeing to the U.S. are often seeking refuge from sexual violence, assault and poverty and they deserve a fair and humane immigration
- [Decriminalize Prostituted People—Not Prostitution](https://flnow.org/decriminalize-prostituted-people-not-prostitution/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Washington, D.C. – The Council of the District of Columbia-Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety- is considering a bill that would decriminalize those who buy and profit from the purchase of sex acts in the District. If passed into law, this bill will provide blanket approval for
- [Why We Observe Indigenous Peoples’ – Not Columbus – Day](https://flnow.org/why-we-observe-indigenous-peoples-not-columbus-day/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt, NOW Board Member Arizona Senator Victoria Steele, Seneca/Mingo/German ancestry, and Cheryl Wapes'a-Mayes Assiniboine/Sioux/Métis: WASHINGTON, D.C. — NOW is proud to continue to support the growing national movement to observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Oct. 14 rather than Columbus Day. It is wrong to honor a figure who colonized, enslaved
- [San Diego Rally Raises the Voices of Women and Girls Detained in Immigration Prisons ](https://flnow.org/san-diego-rally-raises-the-voices-of-women-and-girls-detained-in-immigration-prisons /) - Media Statement the National Organization for Women: SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – Gathering near the Otay Mesa Detention Center, where a 37-year-old detainee died suspiciously just last week and sexual assault complaints have increased by 158 percent in the past year, hundreds of activists are rallying today with the National Organization for Women and our Unlock the Future
- [Abortion Rights Case Makes It Clear We Need Pro-Choice Legislature in Virginia](https://flnow.org/abortion-rights-case-makes-it-clear-we-need-pro-choice-legislature-in-virginia/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Virginia NOW President Connie Cordovilla: WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a split decision that continues to limit women’s reproductive health and rights in Virginia, a federal district court ruled this week on four Virginia laws that have impeded abortion access for years. The laws are a result of Republican
- [Media Advisory- Coalition Demands: Unlock the Future for Women and Girls in Immigration Prisons ](https://flnow.org/media-advisory-coalition-demands-unlock-the-future-for-women-and-girls in-immigration-prisons /) - Media Advisory from the National Organization for Women: SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – Immigrant families are being inhumanely locked away in horrific and immoral detention facilities in Southern California and around the nation and women and girls are suffering the most. Those fleeing to the U.S. are often seeking refuge from sexual violence, assault and poverty and they deserve a fair and humane immigration
- [Orwell Or Trump? White House Tells UN to Adopt Anti-Reproductive Health Doublespeak](https://flnow.org/orwell-or-trump-white-house-tells-un-to-adopt-anti-reproductive-health-doublespeak/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Washington, D.C. — It’s not enough for Donald Trump and his henchman at the Department of Health and Human Services to attack abortion rights and put women’s health at risk. At this week’s United Nations General Assembly, HHS Secretary Alex Azar tried to erase the words “reproductive health and rights” from
- [Native Women’s Equal Pay Day: Break the Wheel of Oppression](https://flnow.org/native-womens-equal-pay-day-break-the-wheel-of-oppression/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and NOW Board Member Arizona Senator Victoria Steele (Seneca and Mingo): WASHINGTON, D.C. — Violence. Erasure. Subjugation. Today, we acknowledge the role that the wage gap plays in the many forms of centuries-long oppression of Native American Women. 2019 has marked a year of highs for American Indian and
- [Child Abuser Mark Fugler Must Stay in Jail](https://flnow.org/child-abuser-mark-fugler-must-stay-in-jail/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Florida NOW President Kim Porteous: WASHINGTON, D.C. – A former Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University professor who was convicted by a jury of sexual misconduct with a child is getting the Jeffrey Epstein treatment by a Florida judge. Mark Fugler was sentenced to 15 years in prison in June
- [Stop Mitch McConnell’s Sneak Attack on Justice and Women’s Rights—Defeat Steven Menashi’s Nomination to the Court of Appeals](https://flnow.org/stop-mitch-mcconnells-sneak-attack-on-justice-and-womens-rights-defeat-steven-menashis-nomination-to-the-court-of-appeals/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Mitch McConnell likes to run his do-nothing Senate at a turtle’s pace, but there’s one thing that makes him run like a rabbit—confirming federal judges. The worse the nominee, the faster he acts. Steven Menashi, a legal aide to Donald Trump with an appalling record of inflammatory rhetoric,
- [America’s Game is America’s Shame](https://flnow.org/americas-game-is-americas-shame/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The day after Antonio Brown became a player for the New England Patriots, a federal lawsuit was filed accusing him of rape and sexual assault. And the day after that, the Patriots, whose owner Robert Kraft was charged with two counts of solicitation of prostitution at
- [Unlock the Future for Women and Girls in Immigration Prisons](https://flnow.org/unlock-the-future-for-women-and-girls-in-immigration-prisons/) - Media Advisory from the National Organization for Women: WASHINGTON, D.C. – Thousands of immigrant families are being inhumanely locked away in horrific and immoral detention facilities – and the women and girls among them are suffering the most. Those fleeing to the U.S. are seeking refuge from sexual violence, assault and poverty and they deserve a fair and humane immigration process. If
- [Honoring the Past, Securing the Future on Women’s Equality Day](https://flnow.org/honoring-the-past-securing-the-future-on-womens-equality-day/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ninety-nine years ago we finally saw the end of men’s denial of women’s fundamental right to vote. Through 150 years of organizing, protesting and perseverance suffragists broke the unjust constraints on women’s constitutional rights as citizens. As we near the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote
- [Look Beyond Averages this Black Women’s Equal Pay Day](https://flnow.org/look-beyond-averages-this-black-womens-equal-pay-day/) - Statement by NOW Vice President Christian F. Nunes: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Eight months is a long time — it’s a full year of college, nearly a full pregnancy, and even an entire sports season. It also marks how much longer Black women must work to be paid what White men received the previous year. Black Women’s Equal Pay Day is critical because
- [Trump’s Court-Packing Plan Must Fail](https://flnow.org/trumps-court-packing-plan-must-fail/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: 08.21.2019 WASHINGTON, D.C.—Donald Trump’s nomination of anti-abortion lawyer Sarah Pitlyk to a federal judgeship in St. Louis is another brick in his judicial wall around abortion. He is packing the federal bench with young, ultraconservative zealots who are committed to weakening or reversing abortion rights. Sarah Pitlyk is the special counsel to
- [Time Runs Out on Title X—Here Comes the Gag Rule](https://flnow.org/time-runs-out-on-title-x-here-comes-the-gag-rule/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals must stop the Trump Administration from building chains around Planned Parenthood. They want to padlock the truth about reproductive health care from people who are without insurance or who struggle to make ends meet by imposing a politically contrived gag rule on
- [Steve King is Only Part of The Problem](https://flnow.org/steve-king-is-only-part-of-the-problem/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — There’s the bottom of the barrel, and then there’s Steve King. The Congressman from Iowa, who defended white supremacy, has now come out with a defense of rape and incest. It’s beyond obvious that Steve King has to resign his seat in politics, apologize to the people of Iowa and find something to do that doesn’t involve
- [Thoughts and Prayers Are Never Enough and They’re Not Enough Today](https://flnow.org/thoughts-and-prayers-are-never-enough-and-theyre-not-enough-today/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The white nationalist who killed twenty people in El Paso targeted more than innocent shoppers and families from both sides of the border. He was aiming to promote the racist, hateful views of a toxic online community that’s been emboldened by what they hear from Donald Trump and his enablers on cable news
- [The Senate Fails Again to Protect Survivors of Sexual Assault](https://flnow.org/the-senate-fails-again-to-protect-survivors-of-sexual-assault/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The fix is in to elevate General John E. Hyten to be vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the military’s second highest position, despite credible accusations of sexual assault made by an officer under his command. Col. Kathryn Spletstoser has told investigators and the media about
- [We Are The Champions—But Not When It Comes To Equal Pay For Women Athletes](https://flnow.org/we-are-the-champions-but-not-when-it-comes-to-equal-pay-for-women-athletes/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) in soccer made history by winning their fourth World Cup trophy, but the legacy of discrimination against women athletes continues. This is one reason NOW is standing up in support of two important pieces of legislation that would help female athletes finally get the
- [NOW Applauds Arkansas Decision to Protect Abortion Rights](https://flnow.org/now-applauds-arkansas-decision-to-protect-abortion-rights/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Judge Kristine Baker ruled today to temporarily block three anti-abortion laws that would have left Arkansas residents with only one clinic providing abortion care. Currently, Arkansas has two such clinics, and only one of them performs abortions after 10 weeks into a pregnancy. That clinic would not have been able to meet new burdensome requirements under one of the blocked bills.
- [National NOW Conference Opens With Call To Presidential Candidates](https://flnow.org/national-now-conference-opens-with-call-to-presidential-candidates/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. – From protecting women’s reproductive health and equal pay, to immigration reform and the importance of the female vote in the upcoming elections, women’s issues are dominating headlines every single day. The National Organization for Women (NOW) begins its annual conference today in Minneapolis, with events
- [Good Riddance Acosta — People Protecting Pedophiles Have No Place in Government](https://flnow.org/good-riddance-acosta-people-protecting-pedophiles-have-no-place-in-government/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — It’s far past time Alexander Acosta resigned. Since December, the National Organization for Women has been calling on him to leave his post as Secretary of Labor. Acosta allowed Jeffrey Epstein, a serial child molester, to use his wealth, power and influence to escape serious penalties for his crimes. The charges
- [NOW Condemns Sexist and Racist Behavior by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Agents](https://flnow.org/now-condemns-sexist-and-racist-behavior-by-u-s-customs-and-border-patrol-agents/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — Recent reporting confirms that migrants are being subjected to inhumane conditions at detention centers run by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agency. Furthermore, an investigation by ProPublica revealed abhorrent online behavior of CBP agents targeting both women and people of color with hostile and derogatory remarks. NOW stands against the mistreatment of migrants
- [Save the Date: National Organization for Women Annual Conference,  “Feminist Agenda Rising: Our Time is Now” to   Focus on Promoting the Women’s Agenda in 2020 Elections ](https://flnow.org/save-the-date-national-organization-for-women annual conference -feminist-agenda-rising-our-time-is-now-to  -focus-on-promoting the/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. – From protecting women’s reproductive health and equal pay, to immigration reform and the importance of the female vote in the upcoming elections, women’s issues are dominating headlines every single day. Next month in Minnesota, the National Organization for Women (NOW) will hold its annual conference, with events revolving around this year’s theme: “Feminist Agenda Rising: Our Time is Now.” NOW and its members will come together and
- [Supreme Court Stops Trump From Weaponizing the Census Against Immigrants—For Now](https://flnow.org/supreme-court-stops-trump-from-weaponizing-the-census-against-immigrants-for-now/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Democracy won a big victory at the U.S Supreme Court when Donald Trump’s attempt to add a citizenship question to the U.S. Census was defeated. But trust in this core document of our democracy has already been eroded. Scores of immigrants got the message that the census was
- [The Assaulter-in-Chief Strikes Again](https://flnow.org/the-assaulter-in-chief-strikes-again/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — “She’s not my type,” Donald Trump said by way of denying E. Jean Carroll’s accusation that he sexually assaulted her in a department store dressing room more than 20 years ago. Really, Mr. President? What is “your type” when it comes to rape? Donald Trump has rejected the accounts
- [NOW Stands with Shelby Week, Urges Restoration of the Voting Rights Act](https://flnow.org/now stands-with-shelby-week-urges-restoration-of-the-voting-rights-act/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Vice President Christian F. Nunes: WASHINGTON, D.C. – The 19th Amendment’s promise of suffrage for women unfortunately did not provide actual safe access to the ballot box for women of color, nor did it include nationwide suffrage for American Indian women. It took the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 to finally
- [NOW Condemns Missouri Health Department Clinic Decision](https://flnow.org/now-condemns-missouri-health-department-clinic-decision/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) rejected the license application of the only abortion provider in the state. Judge Michael F. Stelzer of the Missouri Circuit Court in St. Louis then ruled that his preliminary injunction to allow the clinic to continue to provide abortions remains in
- [Rhode Island Makes It Clear — Abortion Care Is Health Care](https://flnow.org/rhode-island-makes-it-clear-abortion-care-is-health-care/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Rhode Island NOW President Hilary Levey Friedman: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Rhode Island legislature’s passage of a bill to codify Roe v. Wade, and Gov. Gina Raimondo’s swift signing of the measure, puts Rhode Island in the vanguard of states that are confronting the real threat to reproductive rights and
- [NOW Commemorates Juneteenth, Asserts Importance of Intersectional Feminism](https://flnow.org/now-commemorates-juneteenth-asserts-importance-of-intersectional-feminism/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the National Organization for Women celebrates Juneteenth, commemorating the day 154 years ago when Texan slaves learned that the Civil War was won and they were free. On June 19, 1865, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Major General Gordon Granger and his
- [Commercialized Surrogacy Exploits Women](https://flnow.org/commercialized-surrogacy-exploits-women/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Altruistic, non-commercial surrogacy is often utilized to help LGBTQIA+ couples and women struggling with fertility to build their families. While this practice has the support of NOW, we caution against legalization of commercialized surrogacy, which is currently being considered in New York State Assembly. Commercial surrogacy
- [Abortion Care in Missouri is Protected For Now](https://flnow.org/abortion-care-in-missouri-is-protected-for-now/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, Judge Michael F. Stelzer of the Missouri Circuit Court in St. Louis issued a preliminary injunction allowing the only remaining clinic providing abortion care in the state to continue operating through June 21st. NOW celebrates this victory for abortion rights, which, at least temporarily,
- [National Organization for Women Observes Moms Equal Pay Day](https://flnow.org/national-organization-for-women-observes-moms-equal-pay-day/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — This June 10th, NOW recognizes both the 56th anniversary of the Equal Pay Act as well as Mom’s Equal Pay Day. While the Equal Pay Act helped to narrow the wage gap, the data still demonstrates that women face pay discrimination, especially if they are
- [Joe Biden Must Renounce His Support for the Hyde Amendment](https://flnow.org/joe-biden-must-renounce-his-support-for-the-hyde-amendment/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Joe Biden likes to say that he “gets it,” but he’s way out of touch when it comes to the Hyde Amendment. His shocking announcement that he still supports Hyde is unacceptable and unsupportable. He needs to renounce his past support for the Hyde Amendment and put forward policies to correct the
- [NOW Demands Access to Abortion Care For Women in Missouri](https://flnow.org/now-demands-access-to-abortion-care-for-women-in-missouri/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Missouri NOW President Freda Mckee: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The draconian abortion ban signed into law by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson would criminalize abortions performed during or after the eighth week of pregnancy, with no exceptions for rape or incest. As we’ve seen in other states where anti-abortion
- [NOW Denounces Health Care Rule, Urges Protection for LGBTQIA+ Patients](https://flnow.org/now-denounces-health-care-rule-urges-protection-for-lgbtqia-patients/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – In yet another alarming proposed rule from the Trump-Pence administration, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) seeks to gut portions of the Health Care Rights Law, otherwise known as Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. This was the the first law to prohibit
- [State-by-State Attacks on Women’s Constitutional Rights Must Stop;  National Organization for Women Launches Petition](https://flnow.org/state-by-state-attacks-on-womens-constitutional-rights-must-stop-national-organization-for-women-launches-petition/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: We’ve seen the frightening headlines from around the country, with state after state enacting 20- week abortion bans, six-week abortion bans and egregious laws that harm women’s health clinics. A legislator in Texas went to the most extreme measure of proposing a bill that would actually give women the death
- [The National Organization for Women Supports #StopTheBans Day of Action](https://flnow.org/the-national-organization-for-women-supports-stopthebans-day-of-action/) - Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Organization for Women (NOW) is proud to participate in today’s National Day of Action to Stop the Bans on abortion. Speaking out, taking action and disrupting the patriarchy is in NOW’s DNA, and our collective voices, shared commitment and energetic activism is needed
- [NOW Applauds House Passage of The Equality Act](https://flnow.org/now-applauds-house-passage-of-the-equality-act/) - Statement by National Organization for Women President Toni Van Pelt: Washington, D.C. — Today the U.S. House of Representatives took a stand for LGBTQIA rights by voting to provide consistent and explicit non-discrimination protections across many areas, including employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and services, federally-funded programs and jury service. The National Organization for
- [The Senate’s Vote To Confirm Wendy Vitter Is A Vote Against Women](https://flnow.org/the-senates-vote-to-confirm-wendy-vitter-is-a-vote-against-women/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Senate took another step today to aid and abet Donald Trump’s radical anti-abortion agenda by voting to confirm Wendy Vitter to a lifetime position on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Trump doesn’t believe in the separation of powers
- [Alabama’s Abortion Ban is an Unconstitutional Violation of Women’s Rights](https://flnow.org/alabamas-abortion-ban-is-an-unconstitutional-violation-of-womens-rights/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Washington, D.C. — The dangerous bill moving through Alabama’s legislature to ban abortion is a direct violation of Roe vs. Wade. This unconstitutional measure would send women in the state back to the dark days of policymakers having control over their bodies, health, and lives. NOW firmly believes that women have
- [House FY20 Bill Would Permanently Repeal Harmful Global Gag Rule, Increase Funding for Reproductive Health Internationally](https://flnow.org/house-fy20-bill-would-permanently-repeal-harmful-global-gag-rule-increase-funding-for-reproductive-health-internationally/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — A new bill out of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations would restore vital funding and protections for reproductive health and rights across the world and would finally repeal the devastating global gag rule, which President Trump has repeatedly expanded. The FY20 State, Foreign Operations bill advanced
- [Trump Expansion of Religious Refusal Targets Women, Shreds Democracy and Puts Politics Over Health Care](https://flnow.org/trump-expansion-of-religious-refusal-targets-women-shreds-democracy-and-puts-politics-over-health-care/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C. – Donald Trump announced an expanded “conscience rule,” otherwise known as a religious refusal, that will further erode the government’s role in protecting women’s health, replacing the delivery of health care with partisan, extremist politics. The rule allows virtually any individual or entity involved in a
- [Trump Tells UN to Accept Use of Rape as War Weapon](https://flnow.org/trump-tells-un-to-accept-use-of-rape-as-war-weapon/) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — It’s been reported that the U.S. is threatening to veto a United Nations (UN) resolution combatting the use of rape as a weapon of war because it calls for rape victims to have access to family planning and women’s health clinics. This is only the most recent—and sickest—example of the Trump Administration’s
- [Federal Reserve Pick Stephen Moore is a Misogynist in Donald Trump’s Own Image](https://flnow.org/federal-reserve-pick-stephen-moore-is-a-misogynist-in-donald-trumps-own-image/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON, D.C.— Stephen Moore, Donald Trump’s announced choice for the Federal Reserve Board, called it a “travesty” that women “feel free” to play sports with men. In a series of columns published in National Review from 2001-2003, Moore wrote that women should not be permitted to referee or
- [NOW Applauds the House Passage of the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization, Urges Action in the Senate](https://flnow.org/now-applauds-the-house-passage-of-the-violence-against-women-act-reauthorization-urges-action-in-the-senate/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — The U.S. House of Representatives took vital action today to help victims of sexual assault, domestic and dating violence and stalking by voting to reauthorize the 2019 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA / H.R. 1585). NOW leaders in the states are working with their Senators to
- [The Feminist Agenda Is Rising—When Will Women’s Pay?](https://flnow.org/the-feminist-agenda-is-rising-when-will-womens-pay/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — Today, April 2, is Equal Pay Day—marking the number of extra days into 2019 the average woman has to work to earn as much as men did in 2018. Last year, Equal Pay Day was calculated to occur on April 10—meaning that in 2019, women have
- [Congress Must Pass the Paycheck Fairness Act and Stop the Theft of Women’s Wages](https://flnow.org/congress-must-pass-the-paycheck-fairness-act-and-stop-the-theft-of-womens-wages/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — At this very moment, the U.S. House of Representatives has the opportunity to advance legislation — more than 20 years in the making — that will finally begin to close the pay gap between women and men. The National Organization for Women (NOW) strongly supports the
- [NOW Mourns The Passing—And Salutes The Life—of Senator Birch Bayh](https://flnow.org/now-mourns-the-passing-and-salutes-the-life-of-senator-birch-bayh/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON—Former Senator Birch Bayh (D-Ind.), who has died at the age of 91, was a passionate defender of women’s rights who guided the passage of Title IX into law. He was a chief Senate sponsor of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and won congressional approval for the ERA
- [On International Women’s Day, NOW Celebrates the Courage, Commitment and Accomplishments of Feminists Around the World](https://flnow.org/on-international-womens-day-now-celebrates-the-courage-commitment-and-accomplishments-of-feminists-around-the-world/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – We observe International Women’s Day on March 8, paying tribute to women’s achievements and the ongoing campaign for equality. Although women of the world may be separated by language, geography, and culture, we are united in activism and energy. NOW celebrates the women who are making
- [Shannon Goessling Unqualified to Head the Office of Violence Against Women](https://flnow.org/shannon-goessling-unqualified-to-head-the-office-of-violence-against-women/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – The National Organization for Women (NOW) strongly opposes the nomination of Shannon Goessling, who is unqualified to head the Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) in the Department of Justice (DOJ). If confirmed, Goessling would bring detrimental – and even dangerous – views on domestic violence
- [The EMPOWER Act Will End The Culture of Silence Around Sexual Harassment](https://flnow.org/the-empower-act-will-end-the-culture-of-silence-around-sexual-harassment/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – Every workplace should be safe from sexual harassment and abuse—but for too long, Congress has failed to protect the rights of employees to report this behavior without fear of retribution. That’s about to change. The Ending the Monopoly of Power Over Workplace harassment through Education
- [The Trump Administration Is Complicit – We Must Speak Up For Migrant Children Who Have Been Sexually Abused](https://flnow.org/the-trump-administration-is-complicit-we-must-speak-up-for-migrant-children-who-have-been-sexually-abused/) - WASHINGTON – The National Organization for Women (NOW) strongly condemns the Trump administration for their inhumane immigration and detention policies that have allowed thousands of migrant children to suffer from sexual abuse. Detaining children and separating them from their families is already traumatic enough, but the extent of these numerous sexual abuse allegations is terrifying,
- [Donald Trump’s Abortion “Gag Rule” Won’t Silence Us](https://flnow.org/donald-trumps-abortion-gag-rule-wont-silence-us/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – Donald Trump hates free speech – particularly when it comes to women’s health – and his administration has issued its long-awaited rule that bars groups that provide abortion care or abortion referrals from receiving federal family planning funds. Defunding providers and denying girls and women access
- [Justice Delayed But Not Denied – the ERA WILL Be Ratified by Virginia in 2020](https://flnow.org/justice-delayed-but-not-denied-the-era-will-be-ratified-by-virginia-in-2020/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – Today, Virginia Republicans are on the wrong side of history, demonstrating a refusal to stand up for equality for women. The Virginia House of Delegates refused to allow a vote by the full House which killed the decades’ long effort in Virginia to ratify the Equal
- [Indict R. Kelly For Sexual Assault](https://flnow.org/indict-r-kelly-for-sexual-assault/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON – The truth is finally catching up to R. Kelly, whose music career has become a criminal enterprise centered around the exploitation and abuse of young black girls. He must be brought to justice, now. After the Lifetime documentary Surviving R. Kelly detailed the singer’s decades-long pattern of sexual abuse,
- [Why We Celebrate Susan B. Anthony On President’s Day](https://flnow.org/why-we-celebrate-susan-b-anthony-on-presidents-day/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – The National Organization for Women (NOW) has traditionally celebrated Susan B. Anthony’s birthday (February 15, 1820) instead of President’s Day in honor of this advocate of equal rights – including women’s right to vote. Anthony, who was actually arrested for attempting to vote, would be thrilled
- [Pope Francis Must Act Now – Reform on Sexual Abuse is Long Overdue](https://flnow.org/pope-francis-must-act-now-reform-on-sexual-abuse-is-long-overdue/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – For years, the Catholic Church hierarchy has proven it has no moral authority on issues concerning women. This week, Pope Francis publicly acknowledged for the first time a chronic history of sexual abuse by priests and bishops of nuns, who had been forced to have abortions or give
- [Justin Fairfax Must Resign – NOW Believes Survivors](https://flnow.org/justin-fairfax-must-resign-now-believes-survivors/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – The National Organization for Women (NOW) calls on Justin Fairfax to remove himself from the line of succession by resigning his office. Dr. Vanessa Tyson has made the brave decision to come forward and reveal in her own words what happened between her and Virginia Lt. Gov.
- [Don’t Believe Donald Trump, But Take Him Seriously](https://flnow.org/dont-believe-donald-trump-but-take-him-seriously/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – As Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union speech, he faced the most diverse Congress in history. Most notably, this included a room filled with women members dressed in white, as Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL) explained, in a show of solidarity against “Republican attempts to roll
- [We Trust Women’s Reproductive Decision-Making](https://flnow.org/we-trust-womens-reproductive-decision-making/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: “The moral responsibility of decision making [on abortion], at whatever the gestation, should rest with women, their doctors, and their families because only they can know their circumstances and the results of their actions. There is no reason to assume that any higher burden of justification is required
- [Ralph Northam Must Resign—Then Comes The Hard Part](https://flnow.org/ralph-northam-must-resign-then-comes-the-hard-part/) - Statement by National NOW President Toni Van Pelt and VA NOW President Connie Cordovilla: WASHINGTON – Virginia Governor Ralph Northam has no choice but to resign following the reveal of a racist photo published on his medical school yearbook page and his inept and insensitive response. But one politician resigning from one office won’t address
- [The Criminalization Of Black Girls Must Stop!](https://flnow.org/the-criminalization-of-black-girls-must-stop/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – It is reported a school nurse and vice principal at Binghamton East Middle School in New York State strip searched four African-American girls because they were acting “giddy” and authorities concluded they might be using drugs. News flash—12-year-old girls act silly sometimes. That’s not a problem
- [Why We Celebrate Black History Month—And What We Still Need To Learn](https://flnow.org/why-we-celebrate-black-history-month-and-what-we-still-need-to-learn/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and Christian Nunes, Chairwoman of the Racial Justice Committee: WASHINGTON – Every February, we observe Black History Month as a way of celebrating, honoring and absorbing the lessons of the African Americans who have contributed so much to our culture, our communities and our nation. This year, we
- [The Paycheck Fairness Act Would Finally Assure Equal Pay for Equal Work](https://flnow.org/the-paycheck-fairness-act-would-finally-assure-equal-pay-for-equal-work/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – When the Equal Pay Act was passed in 1963, women were paid 58 cents for every dollar earned by men. Fifty-six years after the act’s passage, the difference is still apparent. Today, women are paid only 80 cents for every man’s dollar, and the gap is
- [The Supreme Court Enables Donald Trump’s Obsession With Ridding The Military Of Transgender Troops](https://flnow.org/the-supreme-court-enables-donald-trumps-obsession-with-ridding-the-military-of-transgender-troops/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – By granting the Trump Administration’s request to allow it to bar most transgender people from serving in the military, the Supreme Court has taken another step away from judicial fairness, and towards political vendettas. Donald Trump launched this hate campaign in a series of tweets in
- [The Anniversary Of Roe v. Wade Reminds Us Women’s Lives Are At Stake](https://flnow.org/the-anniversary-of-roe-v-wade-reminds-us-womens-lives-are-at-stake/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – On January 22, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its landmark ruling in Roe v. Wade, recognizing the Constitutional protection of a woman’s right to abortion care. Forty-six years later, Roe is still the law of the land—but just barely. Since Roe, state and federal lawmakers have attempted to pass
- [What Martin Luther King Jr. Day Means For Women](https://flnow.org/what-martin-luther-king-jr-day-means-for-women/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON – January 21 is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a national observance to honor the memory of the civil rights advocate. But we should also remember that Martin Luther King Jr. was an early and dedicated supporter of women’s rights. As a preacher at Dexter Avenue Baptist
- [NOW Demands RCA Records Drop R. Kelly](https://flnow.org/now-demands-rca-records-drop-r-kelly/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt, NOW Combatting Racism Chair Christian Nunes and New York State-NOW President Sonia Osorio: WASHINGTON – For decades, R. Kelly has abused, exploited and endangered young Black girls. The Lifetime documentary series Surviving R. Kelly has provided chilling and appalling detail, and brought into focus a key question—why does the music
- [Virginia Senate Ratifies the ERA, the House Must Follow](https://flnow.org/virginia-senate-ratifies-the-era-the-house-must-follow/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – The Virginia Senate voted today (26-14) to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). The National Organization for Women (NOW) applauds Virginia lawmakers for taking this first step towards passage of the amendment by the state legislature. NOW leaders and activists across the country are rejoicing that
- [New Mexico Must Honor – Not Ignore – Dolores Huerta](https://flnow.org/new-mexico-must-honor-not-ignore-dolores-huerta/) - Statement by National NOW President Toni Van Pelt and New Mexico NOW State President Sharon Hart: WASHINGTON – New Mexico state legislator Rep. Miguel P. Garcia has proposed a state holiday in honor of the late farm worker leader Cesar Chavez of California and the late New Mexico State Senator Dennis Chavez. Garcia is quoted as
- [Celebrating The Life and Work of Bernice Sandler](https://flnow.org/celebrating-the-life-and-work-of-bernice-sandler/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Bernice Sandler, who passed away January 5 at her home in Washington, D.C., was widely known as the “Godmother of Title IX.” After earning a doctorate at the University of Maryland in 1969, she applied for one of seven teaching positions in her department but was told that
- [Cyntoia Brown’s Clemency Doesn’t End Her Pursuit Of Justice](https://flnow.org/cyntoia-browns-clemency-doesnt-end-her-pursuit-of-justice/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam’s decision to grant full clemency to Cyntoia Brown was the right thing to do, but it doesn’t erase the injustice she endured. The criminalization of the trauma she suffered as a victim of sex trafficking and abuse is reprehensible and unacceptable. Cyntoia
- [Repealing Roe Is Only The First Step—“Personhood” Laws Are Next](https://flnow.org/repealing-roe-is-only-the-first-step-personhood-laws-are-next/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – An alarming rise in “personhood” laws – including a new focus on beyond-the-pale criminal prosecution of pregnant women- is opening up a dangerous new front in the far-right’s attack on reproductive rights. As an editorial series in the New York Times described: “These criminal statutes are results of
- [Betsy DeVos Doubles Down On Criminalizing Students Of Color](https://flnow.org/betsy-devos-doubles-down-on-criminalizing-students-of-color/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON – Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos has revoked the “Rethink Discipline” guidelines, issued during the Obama administration, which reminded schools of their responsibility to address racial discrimination in school discipline. Without these guardrails, schools can continue to funnel minority students into the “school to prison pipeline,” which
- [NOW’s Support For The Principles Of The Women’s March Is Unwavering, But Clarification On Leadership Is Essential](https://flnow.org/nows-support-for-the-principles-of-the-womens-march-is-unwavering-but-clarification-on-leadership-is-essential/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – The National Organization for Women (NOW) was proud to be a sponsor of the historic Women’s March that took place following Donald Trump’s inauguration, and of the subsequent March last year. NOW has a long history of support for grassroots actions and street protest. NOW
- [A Year for Women in Review – NOW Names 2018’s Worst Offenders and Top Victories](https://flnow.org/a-year-for-women-in-review-now-names-2018s-worst-offenders-and-top-victories/) - WASHINGTON — Throughout 2018, women across the country have experienced several highs and lows. NOW and its allies have refused to sit quietly and watch those who attempt to turn back the clock on women’s rights. We have been tested, but we have risen to the challenge and continued to speak truth to power. Though
- [Trump’s Immigration Policy Is Unconscionable, Immoral—And Now Deadly](https://flnow.org/trumps-immigration-policy-is-unconscionable-immoral-and-now-deadly/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – Last week a seven-year-old Guatemalan girl in Border Patrol custody died of dehydration and shock at the U.S. border. 8 hours after being taken into custody, she began suffering seizures and spiked a fever of 105.7 degrees Fahrenheit when she was taken to a hospital, where
- [Congress Isn’t Finished Strengthening Protections Against Sexual Harassment and Discrimination—But They’ve Made A Good Start](https://flnow.org/congress-isnt-finished-strengthening-protections-against-sexual-harassment-and-discrimination-but-theyve-made-a-good-start/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – Congress has finally passed legislation to reform the way sexual harassment cases are handled in the House and Senate. Members will now be held liable for all forms of harassment as well as retaliation against whistleblowers, and they will also be required to reimburse the Treasury
- [Justice For Cyntoia Brown—We Must End the Criminalization of Trauma](https://flnow.org/justice-for-cyntoia-brown-we-must-end-the-criminalization-of-trauma/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — Justice has failed Cyntoia Brown so many times. At the age of two, Brown was put up for adoption, and when she was 16 she was sold as a sex slave to a 43-year old Nashville man. This perpetrator held a gun on her and hit,
- [Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta Must Resign For Allowing Serial Child Molester Jeffrey Epstein To Escape Justice](https://flnow.org/secretary-of-labor-alexander-acosta-must-resign-for-allowing-serial-child-molester-jeffrey-epstein-to-escape-justice/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — Jeffrey Epstein is a serial child molester who used his wealth, power and influence to escape serious penalties for his crimes. The charges brought against him could have resulted in Epstein spending the rest of his life in prison —but instead, he played “let’s make a
- [NOW Celebrates Native American Heritage Month](https://flnow.org/now-celebrates-native-american-heritage-month/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – As we wind down the month-long observation of November’s Native American Heritage Month, the National Organization for Women celebrates the history and legacy of the first American feminists. Native American women were more than just mothers of the tribes’ children—they were builders, warriors, farmers, and craftswomen.
- [Federal Judge Makes Wrong Decision on FGM Case](https://flnow.org/federal-judge-makes-wrong-decision-on-fgm-case/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — The National Organization for Women regrets the unfortunate ruling of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in the first case of female genital mutilation brought under the federal law banning this horrific practice. We believe this ruling to be erroneous for a
- [Ohio Sends Brett Kavanaugh a “Save The Date” Card—Get Ready To Repeal Roe](https://flnow.org/ohio-sends-brett-kavanaugh-a-save-the-date-card-get-ready-to-repeal-roe/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON – The Ohio House has passed a bill to criminalize abortions which take place after a fetal heartbeat can be detected- this can be as early as six weeks before many women even know they’re pregnant. Although Gov. John Kasich vetoed the bill once in 2016, the
- [NOW Endorses Rep. Barbara Lee for House Democratic Caucus Chair](https://flnow.org/now-endorses-rep-barbara-lee-for-house-democratic-caucus-chair/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – The National Organization for Women (NOW) is proud to endorse Rep. Barbara Lee to be the next Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, the fifth-ranking position in leadership. If elected, Rep. Lee would be the first black woman to serve in House leadership—an historic step that
- [Proposed Title IX Changes Would Gut Critical Protections for Students Everywhere](https://flnow.org/proposed-title-ix-changes-would-gut-critical-protections-for-students-everywhere/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Today Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos announced sweeping changes to Title IX that would eliminate from schools at all levels nearly all responsibilities to protect students from sexual harassment and violence. The proposed changes would take our education system back decades to a time when there was very
- [NOW Endorses Nancy Pelosi, Overwhelmingly the Only Choice for Speaker](https://flnow.org/now-endorses-nancy-pelosi-overwhelmingly-the-only-choice-for-speaker/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — The National Organization for Women (NOW) is proud to endorse Nancy Pelosi to reclaim her position as Speaker of the House. The first woman in U.S. history to ascend to this position richly deserves to return. Republicans have long demonized Nancy Pelosi, ostensibly for her progressive
- [Thousands Call on Former New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman to Donate Campaign Funds to Anti-Violence Groups](https://flnow.org/thousands-call-on-former-new-york-attorney-general-eric-schneiderman-to-donate-campaign-funds-to-anti-violence-groups/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt, Sonia Ossorio, president of NOW-New York. Eleanor Smeal, President of the Feminist Majority, and Shaunna Thomas, executive director of UltraViolet: Thousands of people have signed on to a petition launched by the Feminist Majority, the National Organization for Women, the National Organization for Women of New York, and UltraViolet demanding
- [Women Won The House, But Reproductive Justice Is Still Under Attack](https://flnow.org/women-won-the-house-but-reproductive-justice-is-still-under-attack/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON– Last night proved that voters were more determined than ever to elect feminists to positions of leadership, but women’s rights are still being threatened and we have more work to do. Though voters in Oregon had the good sense to defeat a ballot initiative which would have
- [Women’s Rights Were at Stake. We Voted. We Won.](https://flnow.org/womens-rights-were-at-stake-we-voted-we-won/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Tonight, champions of women’s rights – including a record number of women candidates – won control of the House of Representatives. Voters were more determined than ever to defend women’s rights at the ballot box and in the halls of Congress. Women voted for health care, for reproductive
- [An Inspiration to Women Candidates in 2018: Remembering Shirley Chisholm](https://flnow.org/an-inspiration-to-women-candidates-in-2018-remembering-shirley-chisholm/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: I have been amazed by the record-breaking participation by women in races at all levels across the country this midterm season. Now more than ever, women are poised to disrupt local, state, and federal elections and reach an all-time high of representation in elected office. As we celebrate
- [We Stand In Solidarity With Pittsburgh, With Kentucky, And With Victims of Hate Crimes Everywhere.](https://flnow.org/we-stand-in-solidarity-with-pittsburgh-with-kentucky-and-with-victims-of-hate-crimes-everywhere/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — The National Organization for Women stands in solidarity with Pittsburgh’s Jewish community following the horrific attack on the Tree of Life Synagogue. Eleven worshippers were gunned down by a vicious anti-Semite who felt free to express his hatred towards Jews, even as he was being arrested.
- [Trump’s Policy Reversal Will Lead To More Violence Against Transgender Americans](https://flnow.org/trumps-policy-reversal-will-lead-to-more-violence-against-transgender-americans/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Trump Administration’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is considering a radical rollback of Obama-era decisions that recognized gender largely as an individual’s choice and not determined by the sex assigned at birth. This right-wing, extremist policy is designed to deprive transgender people of recognition and
- [Aggression, Misogyny and Rape Culture Won Women told to shut up and grow up This Must Stop. Enough is Enough.](https://flnow.org/aggression-misogyny-and-rape-culture-won-women-told-to-shut-up-and-grow-up-this-must-stop-enough-is-enough/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON– Donald Trump picked a Supreme Court Justice cast in his own image. Trump chose a bully, a serial liar and a man who treats women with disrespect. These are the qualities that Donald Trump most admires. NOW was proud to work in coalition with other groups that
- [Stop Brett Kavanaugh and End the Toxic Culture of Male Fury](https://flnow.org/stop-brett-kavanaugh-and-end-the-toxic-culture-of-male-fury/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON – Donald Trump Jr. just said that the current debate over sexual assault has made him more worried for his sons than his daughters. Ann Coulter mocked the “snickering at white men” and asserted “there has never been a more pacific, less rapey creature than the white
- [The FBI Must Investigate The Charges Against Brett Kavanaugh](https://flnow.org/the-fbi-must-investigate-the-charges-against-brett-kavanaugh/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — The Senate Judiciary Committee has voted to send Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination to the Senate floor, just hours after Kavanaugh’s appalling testimony. His lies, political attacks and aggressive, bullying behavior underlined just how unfit he is to serve on any judicial bench. At the last minute, Senator
- [One Witness Told The Truth—One Witness Lied](https://flnow.org/one-witness-told-the-truth-one-witness-lied/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON — Dr. Christine Blasey Ford did the nation a profound service with her brave, compelling and honest testimony today. No one will ever forget her recollection of the way Brett Kavanaugh and Mark Judge laughed at victimizing and terrorizing a 15-year old girl. The contrast with Brett
- [Brett Kavanaugh Should Be Removed From The Bench](https://flnow.org/brett-kavanaugh-should-be-removed-from-the-bench/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON–The news that Brett Kavanaugh allegedly committed sexual assault as a college student confirms what we’ve already known: Brett Kavanaugh is unfit to serve as a judge. He’s not only unfit to sit on the Supreme Court, but he’s also unfit to hold the position he currently occupies
- [Christine Blasey Ford: “I Thought He Might Inadvertently Kill Me.” Christine Blasey Ford Deserves Justice](https://flnow.org/christine-blasey-ford-i-thought-he-might-inadvertently-kill-me-christine-blasey-ford-deserves-justice/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON–“I thought he might inadvertently kill me,” Dr. Christine Blasey Ford has said about the sexual assault perpetrated by Brett Kavanaugh. Dr. Blasey was afraid for her life, and criminal conduct that put her life in danger must be investigated. NOW supports calls made by Anita Hill, among
- [Open The Kavanaugh Hearing To More Women](https://flnow.org/open-the-kavanaugh-hearing-to-more-women/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON–In 1991, Angela Denise Wright never got to tell her story to the Senate Judiciary Committee of being harassed by Clarence Thomas. She was waiting outside the hearing room on Thomas’ nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court but was never called. Neither were two other women who had
- [Christine Blasey Ford is Strong, Brave and Courageous Kavanaugh Needs to Step Aside Immediately](https://flnow.org/christine-blasey-ford-is-strong-brave-and-courageous-kavanaugh-needs-to-step-aside-immediately/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON–Christine Blasey Ford courageously came forward about being sexually assaulted by Kavanaugh so she could tell the truth about a traumatic event. Although she should never have had to take this step, her bravery is leading the way for other women to hold Kavanaugh accountable and defend our
- [Kavanaugh Must No Longer Be a Nominee for the Supreme Court. Kavanaugh Has Absolutely No Respect for Women. Enough is Enough.](https://flnow.org/kavanaugh-must-no-longer-be-a-nominee-for-the-supreme-court-kavanaugh-has-absolutely-no-respect-for-women-enough-is-enough/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON–This was written by NOW President Toni Van Pelt and published on NOW’s official blog, Say it Sister, on September 16, 2018. The National Organization for Women (NOW) is firm in our demand that Brett Kavanaugh withdraws his name from consideration for a seat on the Supreme Court. We rested
- [NOW Demands that Brett Kavanaugh Withdraw His Name](https://flnow.org/now-demands-that-brett-kavanaugh-withdraw-his-name/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Last week’s hearings on Donald Trump’s nominee for the Supreme Court, Judge Brett Kavanaugh, amounted to a sham. Not only have Republicans blocked thousands of documents about Kavanaugh, they are rushing the process to get him confirmed despite explosive information about the nominee. Democrats revealed that Kavanaugh made
- [Les Moonves Must Be Arrested–Not Paid Off](https://flnow.org/les-moonves-must-be-arrested-not-paid-off/) - WASHINGTON–New revelations about CBS Chief Les Moonves’ long history of sexual harassment and abuse has finally led to his downfall—but he and CBS are still trying to hold on to his golden parachute. The network has announced it is still exploring a severance payment to the accused sexual predator, who committed the most heinous criminal
- [US Tennis Association: Dismiss Chair Umpire Carlos Ramos](https://flnow.org/us-tennis-association-dismiss-chair-umpire-carlos-ramos/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: In what was a blatantly racist and sexist move, tennis umpire Carlos Ramos unfairly penalized Serena Williams in an abhorrent display of male dominance and discrimination. This would not have happened if Serena Williams was a man. She would have been cheered and chided for “gamesmanship.” Male tennis
- [Labor Day Is Another Day Of Struggle For Working Women](https://flnow.org/labor-day-is-another-day-of-struggle-for-working-women/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Labor Day is meant to be a day of celebration, marking the contributions made by all working people in the U.S.—but for women, it’s a reminder of how far we remain from full equality. Women make up 47% of the labor force and are the sole breadwinners in
- [“See No Evil Betsy DeVos” Endangers Survivors Of Campus Sexual Misconduct](https://flnow.org/see-no-evil-betsy-devos-endangers-survivors-of-campus-sexual-misconduct/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos is preparing new policies on campus sexual misconduct that turn the government’s response to assault, harassment and rape upside down. She wants to shred the Obama Administration’s guidelines for rightfully and aggressively holding schools accountable for complaints of sexual harassment and rewrite the
- [Women’s Equality Day 2018](https://flnow.org/womens-equality-day-2018/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The observance of 2018 Women’s Equality Day in the U.S. is inseparable from the history of the fight for women’s right to vote. In honor of this important day, I will join Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and other supporters to ring the Closing Bell at the New York Stock
- [Donald Trump Uses Dehumanizing Language To Attack Women–But Women Can Vote Against Trump In The Midterms](https://flnow.org/donald-trump-uses-dehumanizing-language-to-attack-women-but-women-can-vote-against-trump-in-the-midterms/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt His tweet calling Omarosa Manigault Newman a “dog” is only the latest example of one of Donald Trump’s favorite topics—his low opinion of people of color, especially Black women. In fact, dehumanizing language was the first thing we heard from candidate Donald Trump, who rode down that golden
- [Keith Ellison Must Withdraw From Race For Attorney General](https://flnow.org/keith-ellison-must-withdraw-from-race-for-attorney-general/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison has won the Democratic primary for Minnesota Attorney General, following an ex-girlfriend’s claim of domestic violence that she called “narcissist abuse” from Ellison. If the allegations are true, Keith Ellison has no right to serve as the state’s chief legal officer. And he had
- [Unite Against Hate – NOW Calls on Allies to Stand Up for Women of Color](https://flnow.org/unite-against-hate-now-calls-on-allies-to-stand-up-for-women-of-color/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Washington – – We are calling on the NOW grassroots movement and ally feminist organizations to join us in publicly denouncing all hate groups and activities. As D.C. braces for the second “Unite the Right” rally taking place on August 11 and 12, we reiterate our continued commitment
- [Today Is the Anniversary Of The Voting Rights Act—But For Too Many Women Of Color, Voting Rights Are Far From Secure](https://flnow.org/today-is-the-anniversary-of-the-voting-rights-act-but-for-too-many-women-of-color-voting-rights-are-far-from-secure/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Voting Rights Act passed on August 6, 1965. For African American women, this was meant to deliver on the promise of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which was intended to guarantee women the right to vote. The Amendment’s promise of suffrage for women, unfortunately, did
- [Today Is the Anniversary Of The Voting Rights Act—But For Too Many Women Of Color, Voting Rights Are Far From Secure](https://flnow.org/today-is-the-anniversary-of-the-voting-rights-act-but-for-too-many-women-of-color-voting-rights-are-far-from-secure-2/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Voting Rights Act passed on August 6, 1965. For African American women, this was meant to deliver on the promise of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which was intended to guarantee women the right to vote. The Amendment’s promise of suffrage for women, unfortunately, did not
- [“It’s About Stopping This Behavior” CBS Must Suspend Les Moonves](https://flnow.org/its-about-stopping-this-behavior-cbs-must-suspend-les-moonves/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Emmy-award winning writer and producer Dinah Kirgo, one of six women who has come forward with charges of sexual harassment against CBS CEO and chairman Les Moonves, told NPR that she is not trying to end the executive’s career as much as she is trying to change a
- [“Coach” Jim Jordan Betrays The Trust Of The Most Vulnerable Young People](https://flnow.org/coach-jim-jordan-betrays-the-trust-of-the-most-vulnerable-young-people/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Either Jim Jordan is lying—or the wrestlers he was paid to mentor and care for are. The Ohio Congressman denies knowing about a team doctor groping student wrestlers when Jordan was the assistant wrestling coach at Ohio State University between 1986 and 1995. The university says that former
- [Donald Trump Bullies Breastfeeding Mothers—And Sells Out Their Health To Business Interests](https://flnow.org/donald-trump-bullies-breastfeeding-mothers-and-sells-out-their-health-to-business-interests/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt When Donald Trump takes the world stage, the world trembles. President Trump’s disastrous European tour was foreshadowed by the news that earlier this year, the Trump Administration pushed the World Health Organization to weaken or trash a resolution meant to encourage breastfeeding and to minimize the inaccurate marketing
- [Florida NOW Represents at National NOW Conference in San Jose, CA](https://flnow.org/florida-now-represents-at-national-now-conference-in-san-jose-ca/) - Florida NOW was well represented recently at the National NOW Conference in San Jose, CA. There were 15 members attending from Florida – that’s amazing for a Conference completely across the country. It was a fantastic conference with amazing speakers, great workshops and inspiring conversations with NOW members from all over the country. There was
- [Stop SCOTUS, Save Roe!: The Senate Must Refuse Nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh](https://flnow.org/stop-scotus-save-roe-the-senate-must-refuse-nomination-of-judge-brett-kavanaugh/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt By naming Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court, Donald Trump has set the table for a vote on repealing Roe v. Wade. That was the promise Trump made during the presidential campaign. In his final debate with Hillary Clinton, Trump said the Supreme Court would “automatically”
- [Supreme Court Decision On Crisis Pregnancy Centers Takes The Court One Step Closer To Repealing Roe v. Wade](https://flnow.org/supreme-court-decision-on-crisis-pregnancy-centers-takes-the-court-one-step-closer-to-repealing-roe-v-wade/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: WASHINGTON–The Supreme Court has ruled in the NIFLA v. Becerra case that fake women’s health centers can continue to lie, discriminate and deceive women who seek a full range of reproductive health care services. Donald Trump and Mitch McConnell’s hand-picked Justice, Neil Gorsuch, delivered the deciding vote against
- [We Celebrate Pride Month and Hear Its Call To History](https://flnow.org/we-celebrate-pride-month-and-hear-its-call-to-history/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON–We celebrate Pride month in June to coincide with the annual anniversary of the June 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City. Stonewall is considered to be the spark that ignited the modern LGBTQIA+ activist movement, following a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a known LGBTQIA+ venue
- [Anthony Kennedy’s Retirement Changes Everything](https://flnow.org/anthony-kennedys-retirement-changes-everything/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt WASHINGTON–This changes everything. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy’s retirement opens uncharted, unimagined territory for women’s rights. Now, Donald Trump will have the chance to radically alter the Supreme Court for generations to come. Never mind repealing every initiative of the Obama Administration-the Trump Supreme Court could erase programs
- [Donald Trump’s and Jeff Sessions’ Cruelty Towards Immigrant Families Has No Bounds](https://flnow.org/donald-trumps-and-jeff-sessions-cruelty-towards-immigrant-families-has-no-bounds/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Donald Trump and Jeff Sessions are turning our nation of immigrants into a country of cruelty. They have issued an edict to forcibly remove young children from the arms of their parents, as families seek refuge from dangerous conditions and lethal violence. Children are being torn from their
- [Florida Feminist Legend Dies](https://flnow.org/florida-feminist-legend-dies/) - It is with a heavy heart that we must announce the passing of an LGBT Legend & Icon Constance ("Connie") Kurtz Connie passed away on Sunday evening, May 27, 2018, in West Palm Beach. Connie and her wife, Ruth Berman, were simply known as "Ruthie & Connie". They were together for over 44 years. They first met in
- [Champion Gender Equality: Social Decency with Action](https://flnow.org/champion-gender-equality-social-decency-with-action/) - The Palm Beach County Chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOWPBC) was created in 1972 by female professors at Florida Atlantic University to fight for equal pay and tenure. This was also the year that Congress passed Title IX (prohibiting sex-based discrimination in schools and providing women equal opportunities to participate in sports) and
- [It’s Not About Cakes: Supreme Court Signals Approval for Discrimination Against Marginalized Communities](https://flnow.org/its-not-about-cakes-supreme-court-signals-approval-for-discrimination-against-marginalized-communities/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Supreme Court’s decision in the Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission case does not codify discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people, but it does normalize it. Opponents of gender equality will see this ruling as a green light for denying same-sex couples their constitutional rights, and an endorsement
- [Illinois Passes The ERA, Bringing Women One Step Closer To Constitutional Equality](https://flnow.org/illinois-passes-the-era-bringing-women-one-step-closer-to-constitutional-equality/) - Statement By NOW President Toni Van Pelt: After 36 years, the Illinois House has finally moved to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, bringing us one step closer to constitutional equality. NOW salutes the hard work of Illinois NOW and its partners’ relentless efforts to pass the ERA. The #MeToo movement has underscored the importance of
- [Help Sponsor Young Feminists at Florida NOW Conference](https://flnow.org/help-sponsor-young-feminists-at-florida-now-conference/) - Dear Florida NOW members and friends, The 2018 Florida NOW conference is just days away. If you haven’t registered but intend to, there is no time like the present. You can also register at the conference prior to the day’s events. Registration begins at 3:00 PM on June 1 at the Tampa Westshore Marriott. You
- [Surrender of Predator Harvey Weinstein Is Another Step Towards Justice for Women](https://flnow.org/surrender-of-predator-harvey-weinstein-is-another-step-towards-justice-for-women/) - Statement By NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Hollywood producer and sexual predator Harvey Weinstein’s surrender to police on rape and sexual assault charges brings a tremendous sense of relief to women who need to know that law enforcement responds when they speak truth to power. Finally, the brave women who have come forward to name
- [The Supreme Court Tells Women They Can’t Band Together To Stop Sexual Harassment In The Workplace](https://flnow.org/the-supreme-court-tells-women-they-cant-band-together-to-stop-sexual-harassment-in-the-workplace/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: In a decision written by Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that employers can force workers into agreeing to mandatory arbitration when their bosses break the law. The 5-4 ruling in Epic Systems v. Lewis lets corporations off the hook by denying employees their
- [The Senate Sexual Harassment Bill Takes An Important First Step, But We Need to Do More to Protect Women](https://flnow.org/the-senate-sexual-harassment-bill-takes-an-important-first-step-but-we-need-to-do-more-to-protect-women/) - Statement By NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The overhaul of Congress’ sexual harassment rules passed by the Senate is a good step in the right direction, but it leaves serious shortcomings that must be addressed in conference. The Senate bill undermines the critical reform included in the House version that provides legal counsel to victims
- [Donald Trump Won’t Stop Until He’s Put Planned Parenthood Out of Business But, Women Can Stop Donald Trump](https://flnow.org/donald-trump-wont-stop-until-hes-put-planned-parenthood-out-of-business-but-women-can-stop-donald-trump/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Trump Administration is scheduled to announce its plan to deliver on one of Donald Trump’s signature campaign promises—defunding Planned Parenthood. But that’s not the only harm the new federal rule would cause for women. Donald Trump wants to change the Title X federal family program to deny
- [New York’s Legislature Must Appoint a Woman Attorney General](https://flnow.org/new-yorks-legislature-must-appoint-a-woman-attorney-general/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The horrific claims of sexual violence made by four women against Eric Schneiderman have led to his resignation as New York attorney general, but more needs to happen if women are to feel safe. “The fact that Eric Schneiderman resigned within hours of the credible allegations against him
- [Women Call Enough is Enough on R. Kelly](https://flnow.org/women-call-enough-is-enough-on-r-kelly/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The National Organization for Women (NOW) supports the call to #MuteRKelly and we add our voices to our sisters’ inspiring call to action. We join with the Time’s Up Women of Color who are calling for R. Kelly’s record label, concert producers and related music industry companies to
- [NFL Must Address Sexual Harassment Claims from Cheerleaders](https://flnow.org/nfl-must-address-sexual-harassment-claims-from-cheerleaders/) - Roger Goodell Should Meet with Bailey Davis and Kristan Ware Statement from NOW President Toni Van Pelt Once again, the NFL has allowed a culture of sexual harassment to continue and has done nothing to change the rules and regulations for cheerleaders. Two brave women – former NFL cheerleaders – Bailey Davis and Kristan Ware
- [Band Aid Sexism](https://flnow.org/band-aid-sexism/) - Imagine you got a bad sunburn over the weekend and you got taken out of class on Monday because you didn’t wear a t-shirt under your shirt. Could that happen? Yes, yes it could if you are a girl not wearing a bra in Florida. Lizzy Martinez came to Braden River High School for a
- [Rep. Maloney Joins with Enough is Enough Coalition Groups to Discuss Efforts to Combat Workplace Sexual Harassment](https://flnow.org/rep-maloney-joins-with-enough-is-enough-coalition-groups-to-discuss-efforts-to-combat-workplace-sexual-harassment/) - Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) joined today with leaders of the Enough is Enough movement, a coalition of women’s groups dedicated to ending sexual violence, to push for an end to sexual harassment. Rep. Maloney is the sponsor of HR 4729 Ending Secrecy About Workplace Sexual Harassment Act, HR 4748 No Tax Deductions for Sexual
- [Justice Was Finally Served](https://flnow.org/justice-was-finally-served/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt on the Conviction Of Bill Cosby Justice was served today. Thanks to the brave women who came forward to tell their stories, Bill Cosby, a violent assaulter has been convicted. This is a notice to sexual predators everywhere. No matter your position in life, our society will not
- [Why We Observe Emancipation Day](https://flnow.org/why-we-observe-emancipation-day/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The District of Columbia celebrates April 16 as Emancipation Day. On that day in 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act, which ended slavery in Washington, D.C., freed about 3,100 slaves in the District of Columbia, reimbursed those who had legally owned them
- [The Illinois Senate Votes To Ratify The Equal Rights Amendment](https://flnow.org/the-illinois-senate-votes-to-ratify-the-equal-rights-amendment/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: By voting to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, the Illinois Senate has recognized what women everywhere know to be true. We still need the ERA. In fact, we need it more than ever. It’s unconscionable that the U.S. Constitution fails to guarantee equal rights for everyone, regardless of
- [How Low Can They Go? The NRA Slanders Teachers](https://flnow.org/how-low-can-they-go-the-nra-slanders-teachers/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: NRA TV has a new video out attacking the American Federation of Teachers and its president, Randi Weingarten. Their slanderous, offensive language doesn’t bear repeating, but it reminds us how important it is to stand up to the NRA and, as some brave young people have recently reminded
- [Today Is Equal Pay Day—No One’s Favorite Holiday](https://flnow.org/today-is-equal-pay-day-no-ones-favorite-holiday/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: April 10 is Equal Pay Day—marking the number of extra days into 2018 the average woman has to work to earn as much as her male counterpart did in 2017. No one who cares about economic justice and the rights of women is celebrating this occasion. Although Congress
- [The Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.](https://flnow.org/the-legacy-of-dr-martin-luther-king-jr/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Fifty years after the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., his legacy endures in the daily work of countless movements, organizations and organized protests. We in the women’s movement, like so many others, draw inspiration from Dr. King’s example of peaceful protest, passionate advocacy and positive solutions.
- [Combat Sexual Harassment? Mitch McConnell Says “Never Mind”](https://flnow.org/combat-sexual-harassment-mitch-mcconnell-says-never-mind/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: When the House voted on the recent omnibus spending bill, lawmakers included language to support survivors of sexual harassment and discrimination. But when it got to the House, Mitch McConnell said, “never mind,” and removed provisions that would have finally brought accountability and transparency to Congress’ sexual harassment
- [The Humane Society Must Clean Up Its Mess](https://flnow.org/the-humane-society-must-clean-up-its-mess/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Washington Post is reporting that the Humane Society of the United States is resisting making broader changes in the wake of the resignation of CEO Wayne Pacelle, who’s been accused of sexual harassment by multiple women. After a law firm was hired to investigate the claims, the
- [“You Are Marching Into History.”](https://flnow.org/you-are-marching-into-history/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt Welcoming the March For Our Lives: The National Organization for Women welcomes the students from Parkland, Florida–and around the country–who are coming to Washington, DC for the March For Our Lives. NOW applauds your focus on grassroots activism, voter registration and getting out the vote to elect lawmakers
- [The U.S. Supreme Court May Be Hazardous To Women’s Health](https://flnow.org/the-u-s-supreme-court-may-be-hazardous-to-womens-health/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing arguments today in the case of National Institute of Family Life Advocates v. Becerra, a challenge to the California FACT Act, a commonsense law that provides women and their families with access to full and accurate information about their reproductive healthcare options.
- [“She Made Her Mark On History."](https://flnow.org/she-made-her-mark-on-history/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt on the Death of Rep. Louise Slaughter: NOW deeply mourns the passing of Rep. Louise Slaughter. Louise Slaughter made her mark on history, and women everywhere are living better, safer lives because of her vision and leadership. As one of the longest-serving women in the House of Representatives,
- [Leading Feminist Organizations Convene to Discuss Solutions for Sexual Harassment](https://flnow.org/leading-feminist-organizations-convene-to-discuss-solutions-for-sexual-harassment/) - Enough is Enough Summit, April 25, 2018: WASHINGTON – The Enough Is Enough campaign, launched in December by coalition partners National Organization for Women (NOW), Feminist Majority, National Congress of Black Women, UNITE HERE, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, and Legal Momentum are holding a one-day summit and congressional briefing on April 25, 2018 in Washington,
- [The U.S. Senate Tells Women—Having a Baby? Forget About Doing Your Job](https://flnow.org/the-u-s-senate-tells-women-having-a-baby-forget-about-doing-your-job/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-HI) will soon be the first U.S. Senator in history to give birth while in office. But under Senate rules, if Sen. Duckworth takes any maternity leave, she will be unable to perform the most essential aspects of her job—voting and sponsoring legislation. And if
- [Hold the Abuser in Chief Accountable](https://flnow.org/hold-the-abuser-in-chief-accountable/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: In public, Donald Trump has nothing but praise for Rob Porter, calling him “wonderful,” “strong” and “innocent.” This is Donald Trump’s pattern. From Roger Ailes and Bill O’Reilly to Roy Moore and Mike Tyson, Trump ignores the accuser and portrays the accused as the real victim. Donald Trump
- [House Oversight Committee Must Investigate John Kelly and Don McGahn](https://flnow.org/house-oversight-committee-must-investigate-john-kelly-and-don-mcgahn/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-SC) has announced that his House Oversight Committee has opened an investigation into the Trump Administration’s employment of Rob Porter, seeking to discover when the FBI told the White House about the allegations of domestic violence against him. That’s not nearly good enough. We already
- [Family and Medical Leave Act Turns 25 – But We Still Need Paid Leave!](https://flnow.org/family-and-medical-leave-act-turns-25-but-we-still-need-paid-leave/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Nevertheless, we are persisting: families must have guaranteed paid leave. This week we celebrate the success of the Family and Medical Leave Act that was signed into law by Bill Clinton as one of his first official acts after becoming president. NOW activists were thrilled to see this
- [John Kelly Must Resign](https://flnow.org/john-kelly-must-resign/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: White House Chief of Staff John Kelly must resign. His pathetic defense of staff secretary Rob Porter reveals his true nature—an enabler of sexual abusers, a betrayer of trust and an avoider of responsibility. Why did John Kelly continue to support Rob Porter after he was told about
- [What Women Didn’t Hear from Donald Trump](https://flnow.org/what-women-didnt-hear-from-donald-trump/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Donald Trump’s State of the Union address was notable for what he didn’t say. He didn’t address any of the issues that matter to women. In Donald Trump’s America, a president doesn’t need to care about women’s health, pay equity or gender equality. Donald Trump turned his speech
- [The Humane Society Has No Humanity](https://flnow.org/the-humane-society-has-no-humanity/) - NOW Calls For Firing of Humane Society CEO Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: In a shocking abdication of moral authority, The Humane Society has voted to keep CEO Wayne Pacelle in his job even after an internal investigation corroborated three complaints of sexual harassment against him. The group also offered settlements to three
- [NOW In The News](https://flnow.org/now-in-the-news/) - Last weekend’s Women’s March was a big event in Washington, DC. All the national media was there, and the program was broadcast live on C-Span. As you know, Toni Van Pelt was one of the featured speakers, and she spoke powerfully and from the heart. The reporter from Politico who was covering the March quoted
- [“We’re still mobilizing to protect Roe v. Wade”](https://flnow.org/were-still-mobilizing-to-protect-roe-v-wade/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Forty-five years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Roe v. Wade that the constitutional right to privacy extends to a woman’s right to make her own personal medical decisions. Today, Donald Trump and Mike Pence are determined to repeal Roe and turn back the clock on abortion,
- [Religion Is No Excuse For Bigotry](https://flnow.org/religion-is-no-excuse-for-bigotry/) - HHS’s New Division of Conscience and Religious Freedom Targets Women: The Trump Administration has announced the creation of a new “conscience and religious freedom” division within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that will have the effect of fostering further discrimination against women, transgender individuals and others seeking full access to health care.
- [End the Use of Religious Misogyny and Homophobia to Justify Denying Women Access To Birth Control And Abortion Care](https://flnow.org/end-the-use-of-religious-misogyny-and-homophobia-to-justify-denying-women-access-to-birth-control-and-abortion-care/) - Statement on Religious Freedom Day by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Today is Religious Freedom Day—a federal observance to commemorate Thomas Jefferson’s determination that the United States would not be considered a “Christian nation.” Jefferson’s original statute disestablished an official state church for the new nation, and provided that no one be compelled to attend
- [“If we don’t stand up for our rights, Donald Trump and his right-wing allies will take them away from us. We must get out the vote!”](https://flnow.org/if-we-dont-stand-up-for-our-rights-donald-trump-and-his-right-wing-allies-will-take-them-away-from-us-we-must-get-out-the-vote/) - NOW President Toni Van Pelt To Address Women’s March On Washington: National Organization for Women President Toni Van Pelt will be among the speakers on Saturday, January 20, Women’s March on Washington 2018. Women and allies will once again take to the streets of the nation’s capital to make a powerful statement to the current
- [“Women need Roe, and today, Roe needs us.”](https://flnow.org/women-need-roe-and-today-roe-needs-us/) - NOW President Toni Van Pelt Joins March for Life Protest at U.S. Supreme Court: As a “peaceful counter-presence” to the divisive, anti-abortion March for Life, supporters of reproductive freedom will gather at noon on Friday, January 19 in front of the U.S. Supreme Court. “Imagine what it would be like if Roe v. Wade had
- [Donald Trump is a Mysoginist Racist; Women and Children are Three-Quarters of Immigrants in U.S.](https://flnow.org/donald-trump-is-a-mysoginist-racist-women-and-children-are-three-quarters-of-immigrants-in-u-s/) - Statement by President of NOW Toni Van Pelt: Donald Trump’s repellent complaint about too many immigrants from “s-hole” countries is more than a window into his racist soul. His hate speech must be heard as a call to action to the public to defend the most fundamental pillars of our democracy. Immigration is a feminist
- [Senator Collins and Mister Hyde The GOP Makes a Dangerous Bargain To Prevent Government Shutdown](https://flnow.org/senator-collins-and-mister-hyde-the-gop-makes-a-dangerous-bargain-to-prevent-government-shutdown/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: When Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) promised Mitch McConnell her vote on the Republican tax bill, she was promised action on legislation to stabilize the health care markets in return. But anti-abortion ideologues in Congress are insisting on including an exception in the spending bill that would include Hyde
- [NOW announces #EnoughIsEnough Campaign To Dismantle the Culture of Violence Against Women](https://flnow.org/now-announces-enoughisenough-campaign-to-dismantle-the-culture-of-violence-against-women/) - #EnoughIsEnough Summit to Convene in February 2018: The National Organization for Women (NOW) announces today the #EnoughIsEnough campaign, led by NOW and coalition partners including Feminist Majority, National Congress of Black Women, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Legal Momentum and UNITE HERE. #EnoughIsEnough will bring together different voices and perspectives to develop effective strategies aimed at
- [What Doug Jones’ Victory Means For Women](https://flnow.org/what-doug-jones-victory-means-for-women/) - “We Need To Speak With One Voice” Say Leaders: “The heads of three prominent groups that advocate for women said today that Doug Jones’ victory in the Alabama Senate election will reverberate into the coming battles over tax cuts, abortion, birth control, health care, budget policy and entitlement spending—as well as the 2018 elections and
- [NOW Congratulates Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences for New Standards of Conduct](https://flnow.org/now-congratulates-academy-of-motion-pictures-arts-and-sciences-for-new-standards-of-conduct/) - The National Organization for Women (NOW) congratulates the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences for adopting its new Standards of Conduct, to which each of its 8,427 members are expected to adhere. NOW was the first organization to call on the Academy to expel Harvey Weinstein following the first reports of the producer’s record
- [Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt on the resignation of Al Franken](https://flnow.org/statement-by-now-president-toni-van-pelt-on-the-resignation-of-al-franken/) - Al Franken was right to resign. He’s been a good Senator, but his career cannot be valued higher than his obligation to treat women with respect. Minnesota will get another good Senator, and I hope it’s a woman. Once all the prominent people who’ve been revealed to have sexually harassed co-workers resign, there will still
- [NOW President Toni Van Pelt Addresses Supreme Court Rally for LGBT Rights](https://flnow.org/now-president-toni-van-pelt-addresses-supreme-court-rally-for-lgbt-rights/) - “There Is No Constitutional Right to Discriminate”: Toni Van Pelt, President of the National Organization for Women (NOW), spoke this morning at a rally organized by the ACLU legal team on the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court. The Court heard arguments today in the case of Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission, which
- [Senate Passes a #BadDealForWomen](https://flnow.org/senate-passes-a-baddealforwomen/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Senate tax bill passed today is a #BadDealForWomen. This ugly bill illustrates just how out of whack conservatives’ priorities are–paying for tax cuts for billionaires and millionaires by taking from women and their families. Raced through the Senate with little transparency–language was finalized just hours before the
- [Resource: American Indian Women & Violence](https://flnow.org/resource-american-indian-women-violence/) - American Indian women are an integral part of the United State’s past, present, and future. Unfortunately, American Indian women have the highest frequency of sexual assault and violence. Learn more about Indigenous Women and violence. Downloadable Resources Download this resource
- [GOP Tax Bills Irresponsible – Will Harm Women and Families](https://flnow.org/gop-tax-bills-irresponsible-will-harm-women-and-families/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Yesterday, the House Republican leadership shamefully rammed through a tax bill, H.R.1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, that expands the deficit by more than $1.5 trillion over ten years, increases taxes on and eliminates important tax benefits for middle- and low-income taxpayers, raids Medicare and Medicaid to pay
- [Roy Moore Should Drop Out of Senate Race](https://flnow.org/roy-moore-should-drop-out-of-senate-race/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Roy Moore should drop out of the race for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat, following reports that Moore made sexual advances toward teenage girls. We already knew that Moore was a despicable, misogynist candidate; his sexist, homophobic, racist remarks have gone above and beyond the hateful rhetoric that has become standard among
- [Unpaid Internships are a Feminist Issue](https://flnow.org/unpaid-internships-are-a-feminist-issue/) - At a recent board meeting, NOW board members and officers approved a budget that includes a paid internship program at NOW’s National Action Center. This was an exciting and important step towards economic justice and pay equality, but it didn’t come until we, as feminist activists and nonprofit workers, grappled with some hard truths about
- [NOW Demands Deletion of ‘Life from Conception’ in HHS Plan](https://flnow.org/now-demands-deletion-of-life-from-conception-in-hhs-plan/) - NOW President Toni Van Pelt recently sent a blunt letter to U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Acting Secretary Eric Hargan concerning the use of the term “life from conception” in an extensive draft plan that is to guide HHS policies for the next four years. Van Pelt expressed alarm that officials in the department
- [Women Win on Election Night 2017](https://flnow.org/women-win-on-election-night-2017/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Feminists swept battleground states and districts this election night–proving just how strong #TheResistance can be. We’re thrilled that Virginia and New Jersey will be led by Ralph Northam and Phil Murphy–candidates who will champion feminist policies as governors. Virginia voters elected progressives up and down the ballot, and
- [NOW Supports Rep. Frederica Wilson as She Stands Against Misogyny](https://flnow.org/now-supports-rep-frederica-wilson-as-she-stands-against-misogyny/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Rep. Frederica Wilson spoke out against Donald Trump. At the National Organization for Women, we are proud to raise our voices in support of her. After Donald Trump’s callous phone call to Myeshia Johnson, the pregnant widow of fallen soldier Sgt. La David Johnson, Rep. Wilson publicly decried
- [NOW Demands #JusticeforJane](https://flnow.org/now-demands-justiceforjane/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The National Organization for Women fiercely condemns the Trump administration’s manipulation of the judicial system to to prevent Jane Doe from receiving abortion care. These despicable, underhanded tactics are nothing new. For years we have watched federal, state, and local lawmakers attempt to chip away at women’s constitutional
- [Alabama Women Can Make History In The Senate Special Election](https://flnow.org/alabama-women-can-make-history-in-the-senate-special-election/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Doug Jones, Democratic candidate in the Alabama special election, has the power to curb the misogyny plaguing women across the country. Alabama women have the power send him to the U.S. Senate. As a U.S. Attorney, Jones took action to put violent anti-choicers behind bars. He spearheaded the
- [National Organization for Women and Feminist Majority Endorse Northam, Fairfax, and Herring in Virginia](https://flnow.org/national-organization-for-women-and-feminist-majority-endorse-northam-fairfax-and-herring-in-virginia/) - The National Organization for Women (NOW) and the Feminist Majority are proud to endorse Ralph Northam for Governor of Virginia, Justin Fairfax for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, and Mark Herring for Attorney General of Virginia. Women win with these three feminist candidates who each have proven track records of championing the issues important to women.
- [NOW Challenges the NRA at Monthly Vigil for Victims of Gun Violence](https://flnow.org/now-challenges-the-nra-at-monthly-vigil-for-victims-of-gun-violence/) - “You Will Not Silence Us,” says NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The National Organization for Women (NOW) is making support for the monthly vigil at the NRA Headquarters in Fairfax, Virginia on Saturday, October 14 part of NOW’s board meeting, which is taking place this weekend in Virginia. The vigil is held on the 14th
- [Tom Price’s Revenge: HHS Makes Discriminating Against Reproductive Rights Central To Its Mission](https://flnow.org/tom-prices-revenge-hhs-makes-discriminating-against-reproductive-rights-central-to-its-mission/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt Donald Trump’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has made turning back the clock on women’s reproductive rights central to its new mission. A draft of its 2018-2022 Strategic Plan states unequivocally that the goals of HHS are contingent upon “serving and protecting Americans at every stage of life,
- [Scouts Honor—It’s Wrong To Discriminate Against Girls](https://flnow.org/scouts-honor-its-wrong-to-discriminate-against-girls/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: That old glass ceiling continues to break, but the cracks don’t run deep enough. NOW welcomes the news that the Boy Scouts of America have once again admitted to their long history of discrimination, this time against girls, and are taking steps to correct it. For more than
- [Hollywood Doesn’t Have a Harvey Weinstein Problem: It Has A Male Power And Privilege Problem](https://flnow.org/hollywood-doesnt-have-a-harvey-weinstein-problem-it-has-a-male-power-and-privilege-problem/) - Statement by NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The Motion Picture Academy did the right thing by revoking Harvey Weinstein’s membership. The National Organization for Women was one of the first to call for the Academy to remove Harvey Weinstein from their membership roster, and we are gratified they faced their responsibility today. But Hollywood still
- [NOW calls on the Academy to Revoke Harvey Weinstein’s Membership](https://flnow.org/now-calls-on-the-academy-to-revoke-harvey-weinsteins-membership/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: NOW is calling for sexual predator Harvey Weinstein to be removed from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. After decades of abusing his power to prey on women, the last place he should be is in Hollywood’s most powerful club. This week the New York Times reported that
- [Donald Trump’s Denial of Contraceptive Coverage Harms Women](https://flnow.org/donald-trumps-denial-of-contraceptive-coverage-harms-women/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Donald Trump’s hypocrisy and cruelty knows no bounds. The Administration of our Playboy-in-Chief, who famously said that avoiding STDs while he was dating models was his “personal Vietnam,” has issued a ruling that takes affordable contraceptive care away from scores of women. Women’s health will suffer as a
- [NOW Celebrates Defeat of Yet Another Disastrous Health Care Bill](https://flnow.org/now-celebrates-defeat-of-yet-another-disastrous-health-care-bill/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Today Senate leaders announced they would not vote on the Graham-Cassidy bill–the latest attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Once again, we’re breathing a sigh of relief, and gearing up for the next challenge ahead. Since Donald Trump’s inauguration, ultra-conservative lawmakers have tried over and over again
- [Contact your members of Congress](https://flnow.org/contact-your-members-of-congress/) - NO to VAWA cuts, NO to Sessions as Attorney General! Action Alert: Trump is recommending budget cuts to the Violence Against Women Act VAWA. Please contact your Members of Congress: Your message: Protect VAWA and oppose ANY attempts to eliminate VAWA grant programs! 202-224-3121 Gender-based violence is not a partisan issue. Many Republicans have supported
- [Action Alert: Block Gorsuch Nomination to SCOTUS](https://flnow.org/action-alert-block-gorsuch-nomination-to-scotus/) - Good afternoon and Happy Spring! Call Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth today and URGE THEM TO BLOCK Neil Gorsuch for SCOTUS! Neil Gorsuch has a long history of hostility towards the claims of workers, consumers, children, immigrants, LGBTQIA people, incarcerated people, people with disabilities. He has shown a track record of siding with billionaires
- [Join NOW at the IL Women March on Springfield](https://flnow.org/join-now-at-the-il-women-march-on-springfield/) - For a women’s agenda and a responsible budget for all Rally – March – Lobby Tuesday, April 25 – Noon Illinois State Capitol – front steps in front of Lincoln Statue For more info: IWM Website
- [NOW Action Alert: Call your state senators and representatives](https://flnow.org/now-action-alert-call-your-state-senators-and-representatives/) - Call your state senators and representatives and urge them to VOTE YES on ERA! After women’s rights activists came to rally, march, and lobby at the Illinois State Capitol on Tuesday, SJRCA 4, the Equal Rights Amendment, passed out of the Senate Executive Committee. It’s time to take action! Please call your state senator and
- [Call the Governor’s office NOW](https://flnow.org/call-the-governors-office-now/) - Call the Governor's office NOW & urge him to protect abortion access in Illinois for ALL women by signing HB 40 into law: Springfield 217-782-0244 Chicago 312-814-2121
- [Trump Administration Protects the Privileged, Shuns Survivors](https://flnow.org/trump-administration-protects-the-privileged-shuns-survivors/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: Sexual assault survivors are not safe on Betsy Devos’s watch. Her announcement today that the Department of Education would begin rolling back protections for campus sexual assault survivors signals once again that this administration is committed only to protecting the privileged. We’ve seen this in the administration’s treatment
- [Trump’s Adolescent Bullying Behavior Demeans All Women](https://flnow.org/trumps-adolescent-bullying-behavior-demeans-all-women/) - The gif showing Hillary Clinton being knocked down by a golf ball that Donald Trump released earlier this week is almost beyond outrage. “Trump’s continued attacks on his former opponent reveal Trump’s true nature – that of an ignorant bully stuck in adolescence,” NOW President Toni Van Pelt said, “and he needs to stop it”
- [50 Years of Organizing for Change](https://flnow.org/50-years-of-organizing-for-change/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The National Organization for Women (NOW) welcomes the opportunity to participate in the March for Black Women and the Racial Justice March. NOW believes that changing the culture that marginalizes, disparages and excludes women, particularly women of color, is our most important work. We were distressed to learn
- [NOW Stands by Jemele Harris](https://flnow.org/now-stands-by-jemele-harris/) - Donald Trump is a White Supremacist, And Sexist Fox Sports Analyst Clay Travis Poisoned The Airwaves Slamming Harris and Other Women Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: In an appearance on CNN Friday, Fox Sports Analyst Clay Travis was asked to comment on ESPN host Jemele Hill’s remarks calling Donald Trump a white supremacist.
- [NOW Proudly Endorses the Black Women’s March and March for Racial Justice](https://flnow.org/now-proudly-endorses-the-black-womens-march-and-march-for-racial-justice/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt: The National Organization for Women is proud to officially endorse the March for Black Women, and the March for Racial Justice (M4RJ). The events will take place concurrently, and in solidarity with one another, on September 30, 2017. As our nation reels from Charlottesville, we have a responsibility
- [Ending DACA Will Stoke Fear — and Harm Women](https://flnow.org/ending-daca-will-stoke-fear-and-harm-women/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt Donald Trump’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program will decimate protections for immigrant youth–and sends a message to immigrant women, children, and families that their safety is in jeopardy. Trump announced Tuesday that the DACA program would formally cease six-months from now, and
- [5 Things to Be Thankful for on Women’s Equality Day](https://flnow.org/5-things-to-be-thankful-for-on-womens-equality-day/) - Original Publication: SELF By Zahra Barnes NOW President Toni Van Pelt tells SELF: “This Women’s Equality Day—and every day—I am grateful for grassroots activists across the country. Feminists working in their communities have been at the heart of every major victory women have achieved: sending women of color to Congress, securing marriage equality, defeating this summer’s monstrous health
- [NOW Applauds Oregon Gov. Kate Brown for Signing Groundbreaking Reproductive Rights Legislation](https://flnow.org/now-applauds-oregon-gov-kate-brown-for-signing-groundbreaking-reproductive-rights-legislation/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt The National Organization for Women applauds Gov. Kate Brown of Oregon, who yesterday signed the nation’s most progressive reproductive health legislation into law. Oregon’s Reproductive Health Equity Act creates groundbreaking safeguards against the tide of anti-choice legislation sweeping the nation–ensuring that every Oregonian will have comprehensive access to
- [Charlottesville White Supremacists Are On the Wrong Side of History](https://flnow.org/charlottesville-white-supremacists-are-on-the-wrong-side-of-history/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt The white supremacists who launched a brutal protest against the city of Charlottesville, Virginia’s plan to remove a statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee must be held to account for their violence and hate speech, says Toni Van Pelt, president of the National Organization for Women (NOW).
- [Google Puts Corporate Interests Over Women’s Safety](https://flnow.org/google-puts-corporate-interests-over-womens-safety/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt Google has once again turned heads this week, because of its sexist and misogynistic treatment of employees. But let’s not forget that Google’s mistreatment of women extends far beyond its Mountain View, Calif. headquarters. Their lobbyists are working hard to protect laws that encourage online sex trafficking–and the exploitation of girls and
- [Veteran activist from Florida chosen as NOW’s new leader](https://flnow.org/veteran-activist-from-florida-chosen-as-nows-new-leader/) - Original Publication: Associated Press, July 2, 2017 Associated Press writes: “A long-time feminist activist whose campaign resume noted that she had an illegal abortion in 1968 has been elected as the new president of the National Organization for Women. Toni Van Pelt, 69, who has been active for decades in NOW’s Florida affiliates, was elected
- [While You Were Sleeping: Senate Narrowly Defeats Repeal of Obamacare](https://flnow.org/while-you-were-sleeping-senate-narrowly-defeats-repeal-of-obamacare/) - Statement of NOW President Terry O’Neill Women around the country are breathing a sigh of relief today, as Senate Republican leadership’s latest attempt to throw millions off their health insurance, and block women from using Planned Parenthood for their reproductive care, was once again defeated. Appallingly, Donald Trump responded from the White House with a
- [Pay Equity Must Include Racial Justice](https://flnow.org/pay-equity-must-include-racial-justice/) - Statement of NOW President Terry O’Neill on Black Women’s Equal Pay Day Today, Black women catch up in wages to what white men earned in 2016. It’s a striking annual reminder to pay attention to the economic inequality African-American women face, and how it is–tragically, persistently–driven by both race and gender. Black women earn just
- [Urgent Message to Democratic Leaders: You Can’t Have Economic Justice Without Reproductive Justice](https://flnow.org/urgent-message-to-democratic-leaders-you-cant-have-economic-justice-without-reproductive-justice/) - Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt The Democratic party, determined to win back the majority in the House of Representatives at any cost, is throwing its support behind anti-choice candidates. That’s a huge mistake. Reproductive justice is at the heart of women’s health, welfare, safety, and economic security. This week Rep. Ben Ray Luján,

## Pages

- [Florida NOW PAC 2026 Endorsed Candidate Page](https://flnow.org/north-florida-now-pac-endorsed-candidates/) - National NOW PAC Florida Endorsements Marialana Kinter / Candidate for US Congress, District 7 “As a former Navy Nuclear Reactor Plant Supervisor, I was trained in an environment where mistakes aren’t an option and accountability is absolute. In the nuclear field, you don’t make excuses, you deliver results. I am running for Congress to bring
- [2026 FL NOW State Conference: Feminists Fight Fascism](https://flnow.org/2026-fl-now-state-conference-feminists-fight-fascism/) - August 14 - 16th St Pete Bayfront Hilton Join fellow feminists in building community and rising to the challenges facing Florida at Florida NOW’s annual Feminists Fight Fascism Conference! Connect through networking, powerful speakers, workshops, panels, and resources, featuring organizations leading gender justice work across Florida. People over 30 years old register here. ​ Saturday only
- [Quilt For Auction at the Florida NOW Conference](https://flnow.org/feministquilt/) - Crafting a quilt is art. Crafting is also a form of rebellion. Crafting is a revolution. Crafting is a resistance. This new quilt comes to you through the act of rebellion, the act of revolution, and the act of resistance of those who came before us. I found my inspiration in The Suffragists through every hour of
- [2026 Legislation Special Session](https://flnow.org/legislation-tracking/) - Judi Marraccini / FL NOW Legislative Director / legislative@flnow.org 5.18.26 We are now in a Special Session for the legislators TO DO THEIR JOB. Their only job is to hand the governor a balanced budget. Every day that the session lasts costs us, the tax payers, money. The Florida House and Senate are far
- [Resources](https://flnow.org/resources/) - Abortion Resources youalwayshaveoptions.com Learn more about abortion pills by mail at Plancpills.org Find your local abortion fund at Abortionfunds.org Discuss your abortion options with a private AI chatbot at Chatbotcharley.org/florida View your in-clinic abortion options at Abortionfinder.org Emergency Contraceptives and Birth Control Resources Community networks offer free emergency contraceptives, so don't hesitate to reach
- [List of chapters for registration page sidebar](https://flnow.org/list-of-chapters-for-registration-page-sidebar/) - North Florida Jacksonville Tallahassee Central Florida Brevard County West Volusia Greater Orlando Tampa Bay Area Pinellas West Pinellas Sarasota / Manatee South Florida Fort Myers / Naples Broward County Miami Palm Beach County Key West At-Large - (no chapter affiliation) College NOW
- [Chapters](https://flnow.org/chapters/) - Find a Local NOW Chapter We are excited about welcoming new members and chapters! If you don't see a chapter in your area, please consider reaching out to us to find out how you can start one, join another county, or be an at-large member. Contact membership@flnow.org to learn more. North Florida Jacksonville NOW Website
- [Florida NOW PAC](https://flnow.org/pac/) - Endorsements All candidates must complete an application to determine the candidate’s values, opinions, and knowledge. When endorsing a candidate, we are affirming to voters, our members, and our donors that we are confident the candidate is aligned with our 6 core issues. Applications are open for 2026 candidates running for State and Local Office who seek a
- [Endorsement Questionnaire](https://flnow.org/endorsement-questionnaire/) - 2026 FLNOW PAC Endorsement Process Applications are open for 2026 candidates running for State and Local Office who seek a Florida NOW PAC endorsement! We do endorse candidates on an ongoing basis prior to the close of a qualifying date. All candidates must complete an application to determine their values, opinions, knowledge, and alignment with our core
- [Women’s Heritage Trail Picture Contest](https://flnow.org/womens-heritage-trail-picture-contest/) - Florida NOW chapters across the state are invited to take part in our Women’s Heritage Trail Picture Contest. This is an opportunity to bring your chapter together, explore women’s history across Florida, and help document the stories of women who have shaped our communities, movements, and collective future. The Florida Women’s Heritage Trail includes more
- [FLNOW Anti-Racist Learning Book Club](https://flnow.org/book-club/) - The FL NOW Book Club meets once a month on the third Monday of the month at 6:30 P.M. Our book club is a space for learning, discussion, and collective growth, with a focus on racial justice and anti-racism. We explore the histories, experiences, and contributions of Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, Arab, and other communities
- [Membership Events](https://flnow.org/membership-events/) - Upcoming Members Only Events (for more information contact Membership@flnow.org ) May 6th, 2026 /FL NOW State Council Meeting 1:30pm Sign Up
- [Florida NOW Annual Reports](https://flnow.org/florida-now-annual-reports/) - This year marks Florida NOW’s first time publishing an annual report as part of our commitment to transparency, accountability, and collective reflection. This report offers a clear look into our organizing, advocacy, and community-building work across the state. This report reflects the collective efforts of our members, chapters, partners, and supporters as we respond to
- [Who We Are](https://flnow.org/who-we-are/) - NOW’s purpose is to take action through intersectional grassroots activism to promote feminist ideals, lead societal change, eliminate discrimination, and achieve and protect the equal rights of all women, girls, and non-binary people in all aspects of social, political, and economic life. Florida NOW Executive Officers President: Dr. Julie Kent, president@flnow.org Vice President: Debbie Deland,
- [LGBTQIA2+ Rights](https://flnow.org/issues/lgbtq-rights/) - Florida NOW is committed to advancing the rights, safety, and liberation of LGBTQIA2+ people in every aspect of life. We believe LGBTQIA2+ justice must go beyond legal inclusion and surface-level representation. Our work includes challenging the systemic oppression that targets queer and trans communities—especially Black, Indigenous, disabled, undocumented, and low-income LGBTQIA2+ people—through criminalization, economic inequality, anti-trans
- [Delegation Meetings & Town Halls](https://flnow.org/delegation-meetings-town-halls/) - Speak With Your Legislators Before Session Every year before the Florida Legislature convenes, each county holds legislative delegation meetings or town halls. These forums bring together all state House and Senate members whose districts include parts of that county. They are open to the public, nonprofits, businesses, community groups, and individual constituents, and offer a
- [Reproductive Justice](https://flnow.org/issues/reproductive-justice/) - For more information contact Judi Marraccini / Reproductive Rights Task Force Chair Florida NOW affirms that access to reproductive healthcare is not just a matter of personal choice—it is a fundamental human right and a matter of survival, safety, and self-determination. We embrace the framework of reproductive justice, as defined by SisterSong, which includes the
- [Join or Renew](https://flnow.org/join/) - There are many ways to get involved with Florida NOW! Here are just a few: Become a Member Join Florida NOW to stop the injustices you see around you. Each member of Florida NOW has a voice. Make your voice heard by joining NOW today! Membership in a local Florida chapter automatically enrolls you into
- [Past Events Archive](https://flnow.org/past-events-archive/) - Florida NOW hosts educational programs, community actions, and intergenerational conversations across the state to advance feminist organizing and gender liberation. Our events bring together activists, students, and community members to learn, connect, and build power around issues including reproductive freedom, racial and gender justice, LGBTQIA+ liberation, disability rights, environmental justice, and more. Explore our upcoming
- [FL Collegiate NOW](https://flnow.org/issues/young-feminist-task-force/) - Florida NOW Campus Chapters and Organizing Florida NOW Campus Chapters connect and support student feminist organizing in Florida schools. We work to build an intergenerational network rooted in intersectional feminism, bodily autonomy, and collective liberation. Our goal is to strengthen feminist organizing in educational spaces through peer support, shared resources, and statewide collaboration. Campus chapters
- [FL NOW Education Fund](https://flnow.org/who-we-are/fl-now-ed-fund/) - The Florida NOW Education Fund was established in 2007, as the Florida National Organization for Women visualized having a foundation to help educate and inspire women and girls of Florida. MISSION The purposes of the Fund are to conduct charitable and educational programs to promote women's equality, to promote women's rights and other human civil
- [Sign up for our newsletter!](https://flnow.org/newsletters/) - Florida NOW is very proud of our monthly newsletter, "The Florida Feminist". We bring you NOW chapters news and events throughout. Every issue comes with FL NOW's President Column with timely actions and information. Join Florida NOW to get the Florida Feminist FREE in your inbox, every month. Join our email list Past Issues of the Florida Feminist
- [Human Trafficking and Sex Worker Rights](https://flnow.org/issues/human-trafficking-and-sex-worker-rights/) - Understanding Human TraffickingHuman trafficking is a serious violation of human rights involving exploitation through force, fraud, or coercion—whether for labor, sex, or other forms of servitude. It is driven by systemic inequalities such as poverty, racism, and gender oppression, which create vulnerabilities that traffickers exploit. However, it is critical to distinguish trafficking from consensual sex
- [Latest Posts](https://flnow.org/blog/)
- [Southern Feminist Organizing](https://flnow.org/southern-feminist-organizing/) - Southern States Are The Frontlines, Not Disposable People in the South deal with extreme inequalities and threats to their communities on a daily basis. From attacks on reproductive rights, education, immigration, LGBTQIA2S+ and BIPOC communities, to disasters like Hurricanes Katrina and Helene, Southern communities are constantly responding to crises while facing long-term systemic oppression. The
- [Join/Renew](https://flnow.org/join2/) - There are many ways to get involved with Florida NOW! Here are just a few: Become a Member Join Florida NOW to stop the injustices you see around you. Each member of Florida NOW has a voice. Make your voice heard by joining NOW today! Membership in a local Florida chapter automatically enrolls you into
- [Racial Justice](https://flnow.org/issues/racial-justice/) - Florida NOW recognizes that racial justice is inseparable from gender justice. Racism, colonialism, and white supremacy shape every facet of society, from policing and healthcare to employment, education, housing, and reproductive access. These systems do not operate in isolation; they compound the harms faced by women and gender-expansive people of color. We are committed to
- [Freedom from Violence](https://flnow.org/issues/freedom-from-violence/) - Florida NOW understands gender-based violence as a complex issue affecting cisgender women, transgender women, intersex, and nonbinary people. This violence includes domestic and intimate partner abuse, sexual assault and harassment, attacks on reproductive healthcare, and hate crimes rooted in intersecting identities of gender, sexuality, race, and more. Our justice system often upholds gender bias and
- [Constitutional Equality](https://flnow.org/issues/constitutional-equality/) - The fight for constitutional gender equality remains a vital priority. The Equal Rights Amendment seeks to guarantee that rights cannot be denied or limited based on sex, enshrining equality in the U.S. Constitution once and for all. While 37 states have ratified the ERA, one state short of the required 38, the legal status of
- [Gallery](https://flnow.org/chapters/gallery/)
- [More Issues](https://flnow.org/issues/more-issues/) - Other Issues We Work On: Child Custody / Court Watch Human Trafficking and Sex Worker Rights National Health Care Young Feminist Task Force
- [National Health Care](https://flnow.org/issues/national-health-care/) - Florida NOW strongly supports the creation of a universal, single-payer health care system that guarantees comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality health care for all residents—regardless of gender, employment status, income, immigration status, or location. Health care is a fundamental human right, not a privilege tied to a job or marital status. Women and gender-expansive people have
- [Issues](https://flnow.org/issues/) - NOW is a multi-issue, multi-strategy organization committed to advancing gender justice through an intersectional feminist lens. We recognize that liberation is impossible without dismantling the interlocking systems of white supremacy and cisheteropatriarchy. Our priorities include advancing economic justice grounded in collective care and community self-determination; fighting for reproductive justice, as defined by SisterSong, as the
- [Economic Justice](https://flnow.org/issues/economic-justice/) - Florida NOW advocates for a broad range of economic justice issues impacting women and gender-expansive people, including living wages, pay equity, protections against job discrimination, social security and pension reform, and more. We aim to challenge and unlearn whitewashed, corporate, and capitalistic feminisms that often overlook or erase the experiences of marginalized, working-class communities and
- [Front Page](https://flnow.org/hillstar/)
- [News](https://flnow.org/news/) - For Immediate Release: March 18, 2023 President Debbie Deland, Florida NOW president@flnow.org BEWARE WOMEN, FAMILIES, DEMOCRACY: A VIRTUAL BAN ON ABORTION PASSED THE FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FIRST COMMITTEE First Nazis went for the Gays, Gypsies, mentally ill, disabled, intellectuals, teachers, scientists, books, and Jews. At least half this list
- [Seek Then Speak](https://flnow.org/seek-then-speak/) - SEEK THEN SPEAK offers sexual assault survivors and support people a way to privately gather information and explore options for medical care, supportive services, and reporting to police (SEEK). If they choose, survivors can then begin the process of reporting to police by completing a detailed, self-guided interview (SPEAK). SEEK provides critical information on: Sexual Assault Crime
- [Donate to Florida NOW](https://flnow.org/donate/) - MAILING A CHECK? Payee: Florida NOW Address to: Florida NOW c/o West Volusia NOW PO BOX 1133, Deland, FL 32721 Click here to donate to the Florida NOW PAC instead.
- [Book Bans](https://flnow.org/book-bans/) - NOTE: BannedBooksUSA.org sends banned books to Florida students for postage At Florida NOW we value diversity and freedom of thought. Interacting with members from different backgrounds broadens our perspective and allows us to advocate for you effectively. For those reasons, we condemn DeSantis’s continued attack on classroom censorship. We’re aware that the Florida Board of
- [Petition](https://flnow.org/petition/) - Step 1: Print, complete, and mail in your own petition Print it here: https://floridiansprotectingfreedom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/DSDE155A_999_2307_EN_Fillable.pdf Important Completion Instructions: All petitions must be filled out by voters who are already registered in the state of Florida, using blue or black ink. Ripped, damaged, or illegible petitions are not accepted. If you make an error start a whole
- [Sexual Harassment](https://flnow.org/sexual-harassment/) - Steps Women Can Take If They Are Experiencing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Sexual harassment is against the law. Many women who experience sexual harassment in the workplace are told that they are misinterpreting situations or being too sensitive but that’s not the case. That’s what abusers say to try and silence victims. You have
- [Black Herstory](https://flnow.org/join2/black-herstory/) - Under Construction? Space holder for now....
- [Conference Ads](https://flnow.org/conference-ads/) - Sponsorships Platinum: $1500 – Full page ad in the Conference Program; 4 lunch tickets and sponsor 3 young feminists Gold: $1000 – 1/2 page ad in the Conference Program; 2 lunch tickets and sponsor 2 young feminists Silver: $500 – 1/4 page ad in Conference Program; 1 lunch ticket and sponsor 1 young feminist
- [Support Our Young Feminists](https://flnow.org/support-our-young-feminists/) - Meet our young feminists helping to make Florida NOW great! Help them make it to the 2019 National NOW Conference by making a donation in any amount to FL NOW today! Andrew Paez Linda Guillotti Sara Smith Serena Sha Natalia Soler Karen Caudillo Kameela Noah
- [Workshops & Schedule](https://flnow.org/workshops-schedule/) - Schedule Download full schedule List of Workshops & Presenter Bios Birth Strike! New Directions in the Reproductive Rights Fight Presenters: Jenny Brown(Author), Hazel Levy, Candi Churchill A panel of three feminists, including the author, will talk about the new book Birth Strike: The Hidden Fight over Women's Work. Women are facing a crisis when they
- [Donate $38](https://flnow.org/donate-38/) - Name Email Occupation Phone
- [We Commit to 38!](https://flnow.org/38-hours/) - Lisa Labbe - Gainesville Terry Sanders - Indialantic Dominique De Laet - St. Petersburg Kim Porteous - Orlando Barbara Ventarola - Apopka Gretchen Robinson - Orlando Joanne Regan - Satellite Beach Judi Marraccini - Venice Mary L. Previti - Melbourne Frances Speegle - Palm Bay Laura Fausone - Indialantic Suzanne Howze - Key West Matthew
- [Thank you!](https://flnow.org/thank-you/) - Thank you for registering for the 2018 Woman Up! The Time for Action is NOW! Florida NOW State Conference. If you'd like to return to the conference home page, please click here.
- [Test (Delete)](https://flnow.org/test-delete/) - Membership is easy and fast! Regular Dues: $40.00 Sliding Scale: Starting at $15.00 Lifetime Member: $1000.00 Membership in a local chapter automatically enrolls you into National NOW (Washington DC) and Florida NOW. In addition to your local chapter newsletters (where applicable), you will also receive National and State NOW publications. Pick out a chapter and
- [Child Custody / Court Watch](https://flnow.org/issues/child-custody-court-watch/) - There is a national crisis for women and their children in the family law courts of this country. Affirmed by experts and leaders in the women's movement, the existence of this crisis is verified by women in every state who report injustice in their family law cases, especially battered mothers trying to protect their children
- [Do you need help?](https://flnow.org/who-we-are/help/) - The Florida National Organization for Women is a group dedicated to taking action to bring ALL women into full equality through changing policy, law, society, and culture. This mission attracts women and men of diverse backgrounds and gives us the ability to look at the systemic oppression in our lives and determine actions that will
- [Broward County](https://flnow.org/chapters/broward-county/) - Broward NOW is a chapter of Florida National Organization of Women, working to promote equal rights for all women. Upcoming Events January 7, 2018: Mini-march for Women's Lives February 20, 2018: Florida Conference News Read the latest statement from NOW President, Toni Van Pelt Contact Us Phone: (555) 555-5555 E-Mail: nowbaycounty@gmail.com Social: Facebook
- [West Volusia NOW](https://flnow.org/chapters/west-volusia-now/) - West Volusia NOW is a chapter of Florida National Organization of Women, working to promote equal rights for all women. Upcoming Events January 7, 2018: Mini-march for Women's Lives February 20, 2018: Florida Conference News Read the latest statement from NOW President, Toni Van Pelt Contact Us Phone: 555-555-5555 Mail: Email us!

## Events

- [Miami Social Hour](https://flnow.org/event/miami-social-hour/) - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84853339838
- [Chapter Chat](https://flnow.org/event/chapter-chat/) - Email judi.marraccini@gmail.com for the invitation
- [State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-board-meeting-6/) - Email secretary@flnow.org for the invitation
- [State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-board-meeting-5/) - Email secretary@flnow.org for the invitation
- [Chapter Social Media Managers Check-in](https://flnow.org/event/chapter-social-media-managers-check-in/) - https://mobilize.us/s/c5ZHSc
- [Florida NOW for Anti-Racism Learning Book Club - “Asian American Histories of the United States: (ReVisioning History #7)” by Catherine Ceniza Choy](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-for-anti-racism-learning-book-club/) - Join Florida NOW for Anti-Racism Learning Book Club as we read and discuss “Asian American Histories of the United States: (ReVisioning History #7)” by Catherine Ceniza Choy on Zoom, Monday, May 18th, 6:30 pm ET. Full list here: https://flnow.org/book-club/ In this book, historian Catherine Ceniza Choy provides an accessible overview of Asian American history, tracing how
- [Florida NOW Film Screening: Act Of War - The Overthrow Of The Hawaiian Nation](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-film-screening-act-of-war-the-overthrow-of-the-hawaiian-nation/) - Trailer Join Florida NOW for a screening of Act of War: The Overthrow of the Hawaiian Nation, a documentary that examines the 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom and the role of the U.S. in the overthrow of Hawaiian sovereignty. Centering Native Hawaiian voices and perspectives, the film explores the impacts of colonization, militarization, and
- [Miami Social Hour by Florida NOW (Virtual)](https://flnow.org/event/miami-social-hour-by-florida-now-virtual/) - Tuesday, April 28th, 7:00 pm Sign Up
- [May Day General Strike!](https://flnow.org/event/may-day-general-strike/) - https://maydaystrong.org/
- [Florida NOW Screening: The Librarians (Virtual)](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-screening-the-librarians-virtual/) - Join Florida NOW, TX NOW, and NETNOW for a virtual screening of "The Librarians" on Saturday, April 18th at 2 pm ET, 1 pm CT. The documentary follows librarians in Florida and Texas as they confront intimidation, harassment, and threats of violence for defending access to books, information, and intellectual freedom from coordinated censorship efforts.
- [Florida NOW Monthly Anti-Racism Learning Book Club!](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-monthly-anti-racism-learning-book-club/) - >>> Sign Up Here
- [Miami NOW Social Hour (Virtual)](https://flnow.org/event/miami-now-social-hour-virtual/) - Miami NOW Social Hour (Virtual) Tuesday - March 31st, 6:15 pm EST Miami area Feminists, join us to connect, build community, form affinity or action groups, shape Florida NOW's priorities, and get more involved with Florida NOW. Please bring a friend or ally to join in, if you can. And, of course, be
- [Anti-Racist Learning Book Club March 2026: “White Women, Race Matters: The Social Construction of Whiteness” by Ruth Frankenburg](https://flnow.org/event/anti-racist-learning-book-club-march-2026-white-women-race-matters-the-social-construction-of-whiteness-by-ruth-frankenburg/) - Email Debbie Deland, vp@flnow.org
- [2026 FL NOW State Conference: Feminists Fight Fascism](https://flnow.org/event/2026-conference/) - The Annual 2026 FL NOW State Conference: Feminists Fight Fascism will be held in St. Petersburg on August 14-16th, 2026. Join fellow feminists in building community and rising to the challenges in Florida. Reserve a discounted room at the hotel here! People over 30 years old register here! ​30 years old and under, register free here​! Apply for a program book
- [Florida NOW State Council -  Wed., May 6,  2026 @ 5:15 pm on ZOOM](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-state-council-wed-may-6-2026-515-pm-on-zoom/) - >>> Sign Up Here
- [Florida NOW Miami Area Huddle & Interest Assessment](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-miami-area-huddle-interest-assessment/) - Miami-area feminists are invited to gather on Zoom to connect, share priorities, explore forming affinity or action groups, and help shape Florida NOW’s programs and direction. Whether you’re a longtime member or new to FL NOW, your voice and participation matter. Please fill out this form to sign up for the February 25 Miami
- [Florida NOW Film Screening: The Librarians](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-film-screening-the-librarians/) - https://mobilize.us/s/UQEupf
- [Florida NOW - Field Trip: Moore Museum Tour](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-field-trip-moore-museum-tour/) - https://mobilize.us/s/TDfaJz
- [March Chapter Chat](https://flnow.org/event/march-chapter-chat/) - Saturday, March 7th, 2026 9:30 am
- [Florida NOW Film Screening: DOLORES](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-film-screening-dolores/) - https://mobilize.us/s/pFOU54
- [2-8 FL NOW State Council Meeting 1:30 pm](https://flnow.org/event/2-8-fl-now-state-council-meeting-130-pm/) - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6h4L4fB-Tlw9-vehNOpy6tmTWCR2PqcmR1n1UVF6nSv6XTA/viewform
- [Florida NOW Anti-Racist Learning Book Club: “The Mis-Education of the Negro” by Dr. Carter G. Woodson](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-anti-racist-learning-book-club-the-mis-education-of-the-negro-by-dr-carter-g-woodson/) - Join our Anti-Racist Learning Book Club this month as we read “The Mis-Education of the Negro” by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a foundational text on how white supremacy shapes education, power, and liberation. Together, we’ll reflect on Woodson’s critique and connect it to the realities of our communities today. Come ready to learn, unlearn, and
- [Florida NOW Screening: Dolores](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-screening-dolores/) - https://mobilize.us/s/pFOU54
- [State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-board-meeting-4/) - Contact vp@flnow.org for more
- [State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-board-meeting-3/) - Contact vp@flnow.org for more
- [State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-board-meeting-2/) - Contact vp@flnow.org for more
- [State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-board-meeting/) - Contact vp@flnow.org for more
- [Florida Now Screening: Free Angela & All Political Prisoners](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-screening-free-angela-all-political-prisoners/) - Join us for a powerful community screening and conversation about the life, activism, and political persecution of Angela Davis. This documentary traces how state repression, racism, and surveillance shaped one of the most important liberation movements of the 20th century, and how those same systems continue to impact organizers, Black communities, and political prisoners today.
- [Florida NOW Lobby Days 2026](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-lobby-days-2026/) - Join Florida NOW in Tallahassee for Lobby Days. Throughout the week, members will meet with legislators, offer testimony at committee meetings, and participate in collective actions that support gender justice, bodily autonomy, and community care across Florida. Whether you're an experienced advocate or attending for the first time, we’ll support you every step of the
- [Florida NOW Lobby Days - Interest Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-lobby-days-interest-meeting/) - Join Florida NOW for an interest meeting ahead of our 2026 Lobby Days. This session is for anyone who wants to learn how to show up in Tallahassee with a strong, grassroots, intersectional feminist presence. We’ll go over what Lobby Days look like, how members can participate, accessible ways to plug in, and what we’re
- [Anti-Racist Learning Book Club: Holiday Gathering](https://flnow.org/event/anti-racist-learning-book-club-holiday-gathering/) - Join us on Zoom for a cozy end-of-year gathering with the FLNOW Anti-Racism Learning Book Club. This is a space to reflect on the books and authors that shaped our conversations this year, connect with one another, and look ahead to the collective learning we’ll be doing in 2026. December 15th 6:30 PM Open to
- [FL NOW Screening: "LAKOTA NATION VS UNITED STATES" Sunday, November 16th, 2pm](https://flnow.org/event/fl-now-movie-event-sunday-november-16th-2pm-lakota-nation-vs-united-states/) - Join us for this month’s film screening: Lakota Nation Vs United States As the season approaches when many celebrate without recognizing the ongoing history of Indigenous resistance or acknowledging settler violence, this film invites us to reflect, learn, and listen. Directed by Jesse Short Bull and Laura Tomaselli, and narrated by acclaimed poet Layli Long
- [12/3/2025 State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/12-3-2025-state-board-meeting/) - Contact: Secretary@flnow.org
- [11/19/2025 State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/11-19-2025-state-board-meeting/) - Contact: Secretary@flnow.org
- [11/5/2025 State Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/11-5-2025-state-board-meeting/) - Contact: Secretary@flnow.org
- [FL NOW Screening "PARIS IS BURNING" Sunday, December 21st, 2pm](https://flnow.org/event/fl-now-movie-event-sunday-december-21-2pm-paris-is-burning/) - Paris Is Burning is a 1990 American documentary film directed by Jennie Livingston. Filmed in the mid-to-late 1980s, it chronicles the ball culture of New York City and the African-American, Latino, gay and transgender communities involved in it. Critics consider the film to be an invaluable documentary of the end of the “Golden Age” of
- [Anti-Racist Learning Book Club](https://flnow.org/event/anti-racist-learning-book-club/) - The FL NOW Book Club meets once a month on the third Monday of the month at 6:30 P.M. Our book club is a space for learning, discussion, and collective growth, with a focus on racial justice and anti-racism. We explore the histories, experiences, and contributions of Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, Arab, and other communities of color. We examine both past
- [FLNOW State Council Meeting 11/9/25](https://flnow.org/event/flnow-state-council-meeting-11-9-25/) - Time for members to register for our Sunday, November 9th (2pm) State Council Meeting. The agenda will include updates on National NOW and FLNOW developments, planning for our 2026 State Conference, and other business. FLNOW members register at this link:https://forms.gle/PKRxDidMJMiJizZm6 The Zoom link is provided upon registration.
- [Boundaries Webinar by Oregon NOW](https://flnow.org/event/boundaries-webinar-by-oregon-now/) - Boundary setting can be a feminist act of self-respect, a practical tool to identify your limits, and a way to reclaim your time, energy and well-being. Kelly Caldwell and Chrystal Brim (VP NOW Oregon) will share again a much appreciated workshop they presented at the 2025 National NOW conference. November 10th
- [Florida NOW Panel Discussion: Sex Worker Rights & Reproductive Rights](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-panel-discussion-sex-worker-rights-reproductive-rights/) - Join Alex Andrews, Founder and Program Director of SWOP Behind Bars, Melodie Garcia, Executive Director, New Moon Fund, Public Nuisance Feminist, Elle Stanger, Sex Worker, Parent, Educator, and Writer, J Leigh Brantley, Program Director, New Moon Fund, and Blair Hopkins, Executive Director, SWOP Behind Bars, for a candid conversation on how sex workers are reshaping
- [FL NOW Movie Event -  Sunday, October 19th, 2pm - movie "GET OUT"](https://flnow.org/event/fl-now-movie-showing-sunday-october-19th-2pm-movie-get-out/) - GET OUT Screening- Sign up here One of the biggest movies about race to ever go mainstream, the Academy Award-nominated Get Out from Jordan Peele (who has never made a bad movie) has probably said more about the hypocrisy of white Liberalism and its intersection with black culture than any other film in American history. The movie is about
- [Take Back The Night: Rally and vigil for victims of domestic and sexual violence 10/1 6:30 pm](https://flnow.org/event/take-back-the-night-rally-and-vigil-for-victims-of-domestic-and-sexual-violence-10-1-630-pm/) - Take Back The Night: Rally and vigil for victims of domestic and sexual violence 10/1 6:30 pm Bayview Park, Key West Co-hosted by Key West NOW
- [FRF Guest Presentation: Dr. Rachel Humphrey](https://flnow.org/event/frf-guest-presentation-dr-rachel-humphrey/) - The FRF Steering Committee and Florida NOW present Dr. Rachel Humphrey, a Medical Director for a women’s health department that focuses on high risk pregnancies here in FL. Dr. Humphrey will go through a brief history leading up to current restrictions in abortion, discuss the biology of early pregnancy, review current abortion laws in Florida,
- [FLNOW Movie Event - Sunday, September 21 @ 2pm - "FACING SUICIDE"](https://flnow.org/event/flnow-movie-event-sunday-september-21-2pm-facing-suicide/) - September: National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Facing Suicide FACING SUICIDE combines the poignant personal stories of people impacted by suicide with profiles of scientists at the forefront of research to reveal new insights into one of America’s most pressing mental health crises. Shining a light on this difficult topic can de-stigmatize suicide while revealing that
- [Sunday, August 17th, 2025, 2pm /Two Movies Showing!](https://flnow.org/event/sunday-august-17th-2025-2pm-two-movies-showing-2/) - This month we give you two movies about Racial Injustice. FL NOW is covering two elements of American history on Sunday, August 17th that are appalling and not taught today in any real fashion: "An Outrage" and "Banished" when thousands of African Americans were driven from their homes and communities by violent racist mobs. We need to know more about the real American history to understand the
- [National NOW Conference, July 11, 2025 - July 13, 2025 / Hybrid Conference](https://flnow.org/event/national-now-conference-july-11-2025-july-13-2025-hybrid-conference/) - My name is Judi Marraccini and I am your National NOW Southern District Board Member. Please register for the National NOW Conference at now.org. By registering for the Conference, you are able to participate in the election for the next National NOW leaders. You are eligible to vote if you have been a member since
- [Florida NOW Film Screening: 13th](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-film-screening-13th/) - Join us on Zoom for a screening of 13th, the powerful documentary that reflects on the legacy of slavery and the rise of mass incarceration in the United States. Through powerful interviews and historical analysis, 13th exposes how the prison industry continues to disproportionately target and exploit Black and brown communities' labor for profit. RSVP
- [Join FLNOW on Zoom for our upcoming movie screening: Aftershock](https://flnow.org/event/aftershock/) - Trailer Preview
- [Join FL NOW with a Virtual Movie on Sunday, April 27th 2pm - 4pm](https://flnow.org/event/join-fl-now-with-a-virtual-movie-on-sunday-april-27th-2pm-4pm/) - In recognition of Violence Against Women Awareness Month, Florida NOW invites everyone to join us for the virtual showing of Behind The Rage: America's Domestic Violence on Sunday, April 27 from 2-4PM. In 2020 there were 106,615 DV crimes reported by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. (It is common knowledge that there are far more
- [2025 FL NOW State Conference: Feminists Fight Fascism](https://flnow.org/event/conference/) - Registration is now open! The Annual 2025 FL NOW State Conference: Feminists Fight Fascism will be held in Orlando on May 2nd - 4th, 2025. Join other feminists in celebrating our victories and rising to the challenges in Florida. Early Special Tickets Early Special lasts until March 15, 2025 March 16, 2025 it will be $139,
- [March Movie Showing - Not Done: Women Remaking America by PBS (2021)](https://flnow.org/event/march-movie-showing-not-done-women-remaking-america-by-pbs-2021/) - 📅 Date: Sunday, March 23, 2025🕑 Time: 2:00 PM EST📍 Location: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89124378868?pwd=OoK3m0WWBYmrfOj7qt2XWdXgfhp2ns.1 Meeting ID: 891 2437 8868 Passcode: 455941 Florida NOW invites you to our March Monthly Program featuring a screening of Not Done: Women Remaking America (PBS, 2021), a powerful documentary that examines the ongoing fight for gender equity in the United States. Over
- [Jan 18th D.C. Action](https://flnow.org/event/jan-18th-d-c-action/) - We’re at a critical moment. With Trump set to return to the White House early next year, the time to act boldly is now. That’s why Florida NOW is joining the Women’s March and other feminist organizations for a historic, feminist-led day of action and solidarity in Washington, D.C. Must be a member. Email Kaitlyncomms@gmail.com with
- [Virtual Movie Screening of ‘Still Working 9 To 5’](https://flnow.org/event/still-working-9-to-5/) - Join us for our virtual movie screening of ‘Still Working 9 To 5’ November 17th 12-2 pm! 🎞️ The myriad consequences of the inequality working women face still today are brutally unfair. “Still Working 9 To 5” brings this issue to national attention in a popular form: an engaging and impactful documentary film with Jane
- [Register NOW for the 2024 State Conference, May 3rd - May 5th in Orlando](https://flnow.org/event/save-the-date-may-3rd-may-5th-fl-now-state-conference/) - Registration is now open! The Annual 2024 FL NOW State Conference "Equality NOW!" will be held in Orlando on May 3rd - 5th. Join other feminists in celebrating our victories and rising to the challenges in Florida. Click here to register or learn more.
- [Occupy Tally](https://flnow.org/event/occupy-tally/)
- [Pasco County NOW January 2023 Meeting - January 19th, 6pm](https://flnow.org/event/pasco-county-now-january-2023-meeting-january-19th-6pm/) - Pasco County NOW will hold meeting in person and Zoom on January 19th, 6pm- 8pm at the Hudson Regional Library, 8012 Library Rd., Hudson FL 34667. The speaker will be Nicole Breese Wass from Moms Demand Action about Permitless Carry. To join by ZOOM, register here: https://mobilize.us/s/UBPSF2
- [2022 Conference Feminism NOW](https://flnow.org/event/2022-conference-feminism-now/) - We enthusiastically invite you to register for the FL NOW Annual State Conference, rescheduled for October 28 - October 30. We will be at the Florida Hotel which many of you know. It is lovely. Friday, October 28: Candidate Reception starting at 5:00pm Saturday, October 29: Plenary and Workshops Sunday, October 30: FL NOW Business
- [Roe, Roe, Roe, Your VOTE](https://flnow.org/event/roe-roe-roe-your-vote/)
- [Pasco County NOW Monthly Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/pasco-county-now-monthly-meeting-2/) - The Latest on the Equal Rights Amendment. What is happening with the ERA? How can we make it happen?
- [FL NOW Annual State Conference September 30-October 2](https://flnow.org/event/fl-now-annual-state-conference-september-30-october-2/) - We enthusiastically invite you to register for the FL NOW Annual State Conference, September 30-October 2. We will be at The Florida Hotel which many of you know. It is lovely. Here’s What We Have So Far Friday, Sept 30: Candidate Reception starting at 5:00pm. Saturday, Oct 1: Plenary and Workshops. Sunday, October 2: Bylaw Change
- [Start By Believing Training](https://flnow.org/event/start-by-believing-training/) - Sexual assault survivors often face disbelief and blame when they disclose their abuse. This is why End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI) created Start by Believing (SBB), a global campaign challenging each of us to do better. In the 10 years since SBB was founded, hundreds of communities have launched campaigns, 8 states have issued
- [Repro Mobilization to Tallahasse](https://flnow.org/event/repro-mobilization-to-tallahasse/) - On February 22, Floridians will converge on the Florida Capitol to defend reproductive freedom. We will demand the ability to make the decisions to have or not have children and to raise them safely. Reproductive freedom is our fight for education, immigration, freedom from violence, the environment, affordable homes, and the full scope of reproductive
- [Florida Statewide Medicare For All Virtual Town Hall](https://flnow.org/event/florida-statewide-medicare-for-all-virtual-town-hall/) - Save the date and RSVP now! On Thursday, February 24, 2022, 7.30 pm - join us, for a Florida statewide #MedicareForAll virtual town hall. Florida has been ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 3.7 million cases and more than 62,000 deaths related to the disease. The pandemic has laid bare the dangers of
- [Floridians Fight for Repro Freedom Rally in Tally](https://flnow.org/event/floridians-fight-for-repro-freedom-rally-in-tally/) - Mobilize to Tallahassee for Reproductive Freedom on Jan 12 In early January, the Florida Legislature will convene for the 2022 Legislative Session. Our need to defend reproductive freedom is a sure thing. As some anti-abortion legislators prepare to elevate misinformation and bad policy, we are preparing a unifying story grounded in the freedom to determine
- [2021 Florida NOW State Conference](https://flnow.org/event/2021-florida-now-state-conference/) - Sign up for the 2021 Florida NOW State Conference here! Our Zoom conference will be held on December 4th (Saturday, starting at 12 noon EST) and December 5th (Sunday, starting at 2:00 pm EST). Saturday morning’s plenary session will open with a welcome by Christian Nunez, President of National NOW, followed by elections and reports
- [FL NOW Coffee Talk Sex Workers Rights Edition](https://flnow.org/event/fl-now-coffee-talk-sex-workers-rights-edition/) - How feminism has gotten it wrong, and how intersectional feminism is getting it right. We will discuss a variety of issues dealing with bodily autonomy.
- [Access to Abortion Care: The Tampa Bay Abortion Fund](https://flnow.org/event/access-to-abortion-care-the-tampa-bay-abortion-fund/) - Please join us for a presentation by the team at the Tampa Bay Abortion Fund, a local nonprofit that “walks the walk” by connecting people with the abortion services they need, and funding their care. The Tampa Bay Abortion Fund removes financial and logistical barriers to abortion access. It assists pregnant people with low incomes
- [Black History Month Symposium](https://flnow.org/event/black-history-month-symposium/) - Join FAU NOW and Florida NOW for this conference style event featuring panels, speakers, and discussion on black history, culture and leadership. Use the zoom link below to log in for the session. Password: 705775
- [League of Women Voters Florida - Lunch & Learn series](https://flnow.org/event/league-of-women-voters-florida-lunch-learn-series/) - The webinar will be focused on Florida's SB 48. This piece of legislation threatens an unprecedented expansion of private school vouchers in Florida. The proposal would dramatically increase Florida’s public funds diverted to private schools This would follow a harsh decade in which the state reduced its public education funding effort by 30 percent from
- [Pay attention to the FL Legislature and Congress](https://flnow.org/event/pay-attention-to-the-fl-legislature-and-congress/) - If you're opposed to the horrible anti-protest bill pushed by the governor, sign up for this call to learn how we can work in solidarity with March for Our Lives and Peaceful Protest Lee County. This is a FL all call about DeSantis Censorship and Repression Bill HB1 and SB 484. Register here: bit.ly/DDXMFOL
- [Women's March Fort Myers and Peaceful Protest Fort Myers are sponsoring BLACK HISTORY/BLACK PRESENT/BLACK FUTURE: Making Black History 24/7/365](https://flnow.org/event/womens-march-fort-myers-and-peaceful-protest-fort-myers-are-sponsoring-black-history-black-present-black-future-making-black-history-24-7-365/) - A day to hear from a variety of activists representing the Black American experience in Lee County. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-historyblack-presentblack-future-making-black-history-247365-tickets-140673178263?fbclid=IwAR31mQZaFhbW-HqjLxNdVEiD3kxFBcUx398xaIe8R21UE3myVeDDtzYNcA4
- [Florida N.O.W. State Council Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/florida-n-o-w-state-council-meeting/) - Join us for this critical State Council Meeting. We will be electing new officers, reviewing and approving the new budget, electing a conference chair, getting legislative updates, and much more.
- [Orange County NOW meeting](https://flnow.org/event/orange-county-now-meeting/) - These monthly meetings are scheduled on the fourth Monday of each month. Please email OrangeCountyNOW@gmail.com for the link.
- [PBC Municipal Candidate Forum: West Palm Beach and Delray Beach](https://flnow.org/event/pbc-municipal-candidate-forum-west-palm-beach-and-delray-beach/)
- [PBC NOW Racial Wealth Gap Learning Simulation](https://flnow.org/event/pbc-now-racial-wealth-gap-learning-simulation/) - Why does poverty impact people of color disproportionately in our nation? As awareness of the realities of racism in our nation grows, Bread for the World offers this 2-hour experience, designed to introduce participants not just to the current racial wealth gap, but how for centuries, it has been and continues to be embedded in
- [PBC Municipal Candidate Forum: Riviera Beach, Belle Glade, Pahokee, South Bay](https://flnow.org/event/pbc-municipal-candidate-forum-riviera-beach-belle-glade-pahokee-south-bay/)
- [PBC NOW Shifting the Paradigm: The Importance of Black Newspapers](https://flnow.org/event/pbc-now-shifting-the-paradigm-the-importance-of-black-newspapers/) - Our usual Thursday Zoom Happy Hour will not meet because we will attend this free, important event from FAU. Register here: https://fau-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtdeGurD8oGdH4C-gNFOzrNlj1Ogb8ZvRP
- [PBC NOW February Zoom Board Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/pbc-now-february-zoom-board-meeting/) - PBC NOW Board Meeting By Zoom--contact us for link. Please join us! All members welcome.
- [Outstanding Feminist of the Year Award of 2020 + 2021: PBC Commissioners Melissa McKinlay and Maria Sachs](https://flnow.org/event/outstanding-feminist-of-the-year-award-of-2020-2021-pbc-commissioners-melissa-mckinlay-and-maria-sachs/) - The awards will be presented at the County Commissioners. It can be viewed on the county site at https://discover.pbcgov.org/Pages/CH20Live.aspx PBC NOW board member Michelle Damone will present the awards for Outstanding Feminist of the Year, 2020 and 2021.
- [Social Media Workshop](https://flnow.org/event/social-media-workshop/) - Florida Collegiate N.O.W. will be hosting a Statewide Social Media Workshop for Florida N.O.W. This workshop is for chapter leaders only. We encourage each chapter to send at least one representative. This can be a Communications Director, Social Media leader, etc. Whoever has access to your chapter social media accounts. Please use the link below
- [Legislative Talks](https://flnow.org/event/legislative-talks/) - Join Florida N.O.W. lobbyist Barbara Devane to discuss this weeks legislative events. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn more about current bills in the Florida House. Join us on Facebook Live every Sunday at 5:00!
- [Pasco County NOW Meeting – Favorite Historical Feminist Open Discussion](https://flnow.org/event/pasco-county-now-meeting-favorite-historical-feminist-open-discussion/) - All are invited to bring a photo of and describe their favorite Historical Feminist for Women's History Month. Email pcflnow@gmail.com for the Zoom link.
- [Pasco County NOW Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/pasco-county-now-meeting/) - Stopping Intimate Partner Violence, Speaker: Holly Tucker, Sunrise of Pasco DV Shelter Email pcflnow@gmail.com for the Zoom link
- [Florida NOW 2020 Virtual Conference](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-2020-virtual-conference/) - Build a Better NOW. Empower Grassroots Feminism. Through interactive workshops, sessions, panels and plenaries, attendees have the opportunity to access information, resources, plan, strategize and engage on issues that impact communities of color, LGBTQIA+ people, and women. To BUILD a BETTER NOW in Florida and across the nation!
- [Florida NOW Pre-Conference Legislative Panel](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-pre-conference-legislative-panel/) - Join Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith, Rep. Anna Eskamani, Senator Loranne Ausley, Rep. Angie Nixon and Rep. Dottie Joseph for a dynamic legislative panel and help prepare for the 2021 legislative session ahead.
- [Join FL NOW for an ONLINE Women's Equality Day Press Conference & Speak Out](https://flnow.org/event/join-fl-now-for-an-online-womens-equality-day-press-conference-speak-out/) - JOIN US Wed. August 26th at 10:30 am on Zoom or FB Live Florida NOW endorsed candidates, especially women of color, had a landslide victory in the primary this year. Support seven of our FL NOW endorsed candidates as they speak out on equality!! Join us Wednesday, August 26th, 2020 at 10:30 am, Florida National Organization for Women
- [Florida NOW Council Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-council-meeting/) - Join Florida NOW President Kim Porteous online for a statewide FL NOW Council MeetingTime: Aug 23, 2020 01:00 PM Eastern Time This will be a ZOOM meeting. Please contact us for link information to the online meeting. Email your requests to join to communications@flnow.org Bear Atwood will serve as Parliamentarian for this Council meeting. She will
- [Women in Criminal Justice with FL NOW & Miami NOW](https://flnow.org/event/women-in-criminal-justice-with-fl-now-miami-now/) - Topic: Women in Criminal Justice with FL NOW & Miami NOW Time: Jul 17, 2020 12:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87822069970?pwd=VmpWNzE4L09Pd0FiUnJVMDFzUjB4QT09 Meeting ID: 878 2206 9970
- [Consciousness Raising: Dismantling White Feminism within NOW](https://flnow.org/event/consciousness-raising-dismantling-white-feminism-within-now/) - Hosted by our friends of Mass NOW. Join us on Tuesday, June 30th 6:00 - 8:00PM for a consciousness raising on dismantling white feminism, starting in the National Organization for Women! In honor of Mass NOW’s 50th anniversary we are going back to our roots by hosting intimate consciousness raising discussions in living rooms
- [NOW Meetup: LQBTQ_ Awareness Recognizing PRIDE Month](https://flnow.org/event/now-meetup-lqbtq_-awareness-recognizing-pride-month/) - Join us for this online event! Hosted by: Mass NOW California National Organization for Women Florida National Organization for Women NOW Georgia Visit the Facebook event page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/events/2614074335477643/
- [2020 Florida NOW State Conference](https://flnow.org/event/2020-florida-now-state-conference/) - Make plans to join us for the 2020 Florida NOW State Conference! Unite and Fight 2020: Focus on the Future NOW! Mark your calendars for April 17-19, 2020 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: Florida NOW has decided to move our 2020 State Conference online due to the daily developments surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak. In an effort to be
- [Florida NOW Lobby House in Tallahassee!](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-lobby-house-in-tallahassee/) - We are making lobbying a priority in 2020! The Florida National Organization for Women has rented a house in Tallahassee from January 12 to February 13 to help support and educate our folks at the state capital on bills that threaten or are aligned with our NOW core issues! This effort will help us empower
- [Women's March 2020 - Orlando](https://flnow.org/event/womens-march-2020-orlando/) - Bring your Best Signs and your Best Friends! The National Organization of Women+ Orange County Chapter invites you march with us on Sunday January 19th, 2020 in support of Impeachment, The Equal Rights Amendment, the LGBTQ community, Racial Equality, Immigrants Rights, The Fight for $15, the Disability Community, and Abortion Rights. https://actionnetwork.org/events/rising-2020-women-allies-march-orlando/ https://www.facebook.com/NOWplusOrangeCountyFlorida/ If you’re
- [Unveiling of Mabel Norris Reese Bust](https://flnow.org/event/unveiling-of-mabel-norris-reese-bust/) - Unveiling of Mabel Norris Reese Bust Sculpted by Jim McNalis Sunday, January 12, 2020 at 3 pm Mount Dora Community Bldg. 520 N Baker St, Mt Dora, FL 32757 Mabel Norris Reese was a local Lake County/ Mount Dora journalist in the 1950's who exposed the horrible behavior of the former Lake County Sheriff Willis
- [Women's Equality Day: A Legislative Town Hall](https://flnow.org/event/womens-equality-day-a-legislative-town-hall/) - August 26th marks Women’s Equality Day, and this year will be the 99th anniversary of women in America obtaining the right to vote. It’s our responsibility as lawmakers to mark this important moment in our nation’s history and elevate the need to pass policies that support women, girls, and other marginalized members of our community.
- [Florida NOW ERA Equality Day of Action](https://flnow.org/event/florida-now-era-equality-day-of-action/) - Mark your calendars! FL NOW will be holding press conferences on Women's Equality Day, Monday, August 26th, outside of the local offices of: House Speaker Jose R. Oliva (R) - Hialeah, FL Rep. Bob Rommel (R) - Naples, FL Senator President Bill Galvano (R) - Bradenton, FL Senator David Simmons (R) - Longwood, FL The
- [Equal Means Equal Film Showing](https://flnow.org/event/equal-means-equal-film-showing-2/) - Event for Citrus County NOW (National Organization for Women) Hosted by Linda Varonich Central Ridge Library 425 W. Roosevelt Blvd. Beverly Hills, Florida 34465 August 20, 2019 from 3:30-5:00 pm and August 21 11:00-12:30 pm
- [Equal Means Equal Film Showing](https://flnow.org/event/equal-means-equal-film-showing/) - Event for Citrus County NOW (National Organization for Women) Hosted by Linda Varonich Central Ridge Library 425 W. Roosevelt Blvd. Beverly Hills, Florida 34465 August 20, 2019 from 3:30-5:00 pm and August 21 11:00-12:30 pm
- [2019 NOW Conference](https://flnow.org/event/2019-now-conference/) - Conference Dates: July 19, 2019, at 9 a.m. through July 21, 2019, at 3 p.m. Location: Hilton Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport Mall of America, 3800 American Blvd. E, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55425
- [FLNOW State Council Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/flnow-state-council-meeting/) - State Council meeting on Saturday, January 26th at 2:00 pm. This is an online meeting. Look for details to arrive via email to chapter leaders.
- [2019 FLNOW State Conference](https://flnow.org/event/2019-flnow-state-conference/) - The Florida NOW State Conference is scheduled for April 26-28 at the Florida Hotel and Conference center in Orlando. The hotel has provided this unique link for NOW members to receive the special rate of $119 for a double room including free reserved parking, free Wi-Fi, waived $19 resort fee, 2 bottles of water daily,
- [State Council and ERA Organizational Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-council-and-era-organizational-meeting/) - Please join Florida NOW at our State Council meeting in Orlando on November 11. We are encouraging ALL MEMBERS to attend - Florida NOW is YOUR organization and it’s important for our members to steer the important work we do. The meeting will move briskly through business topics, provide lunch, hear from local organizers and
- [Rally for Amendment 4](https://flnow.org/event/rally-for-amendment-4-2/) - Come show your support for 1.4 million Floridians denied the right to vote! Rally Sunday October 21, 2:00 to 4:00 Historical Society of Palm Beach County 300 N. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach Entertainment: PinkSlip Duo Sponsors: ACLU, League of Women Voters, National Council of Jewish Women and PBC NOW Amendment 4 would automatically restore
- [What is the distinction between Sex and Gender? What are the issues impacting this distinction?](https://flnow.org/event/what-is-the-distinction-between-sex-and-gender-what-are-the-issues-impacting-this-distinction/) - When: Saturday, September 22, 2018 from 11-12:30 Where: Delray Beach Public Library (downtown at 100 West Atlantic Ave by SW 2nd Avenues) NOWPBC, the faculty and graduate students from FAU Center Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, and LBGTQIA members of the Compass Community Center invite you to our program, What is the distinction between Sex and Gender? What are
- [NOW Presents: Live Tribute To Campaign Reform Activist, Granny D](https://flnow.org/event/now-presents-live-tribute-to-campaign-reform-activist-granny-d/) - Go, Granny D: "You're Never too old to Raise a little Hell—" Never underestimate grannies. At age 90 Doris "Granny D" Haddock blazed a 3200-mile trail across America for campaign finance reform, precipitating the passage of the McCain-Feingold Act. She continued her bipartisan reform efforts in countrywide voter registration drives, issuing her final challenge in
- [Jacksonville Area NOW: March for Our Lives-Road to Change](https://flnow.org/event/jacksonville-area-now-march-for-our-lives-road-to-change/) - Jacksonville Area NOW is participating in the March for Our Lives-Road to Change event here in Jacksonville on Friday. The event will take place at the Jacksonville Landing and will be from 11:00 until 3:00. The event promotes common sense gun legislation and is led by the young people who have become activists after the
- [State Council Meeting (Teleconference)](https://flnow.org/event/state-council-meeting-3/) - Our next State Council meeting will be a teleconference at 10:00 AM on Sunday, August 19. Every chapter should try to have a representative on the call. We will be reviewing and voting on Florida NOW's support for the amendments on the ballot in November.
- [Families Belong Together (March For Stolen Children)](https://flnow.org/event/families-belong-together-march-for-stolen-children/) - Families Belong Together (March For Stolen Children), Palm Beach June 14, 5:00 - 8:00 Public · Hosted by National Organization for Women - NOW Palm Beach County and 3 others Join Us while cities across the country march simultaneously, this June 14th, Flag-Day, in a protest against the horrendous policies of this administration. We will meet and assemble at
- [Anti-Abortion Fake Clinic Protest](https://flnow.org/event/anti-abortion-fake-clinic-protest/) - Let's hold fake clinics accountable! We support reproductive rights and freedom! We reject shame and stigma! Help us expose the truth behind deceitful fake women’s health centers (they like to call themselves “crisis pregnancy centers”) at this press conference and protest. This is a pre-event to the Florida National Organization for Women (NOW) Conference which
- [Pasco County NOW Monthly Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/pasco-county-now-monthly-meeting/)
- [West Pinellas NOW meeting](https://flnow.org/event/west-pinellas-now-meeting/) - The focus of our May meeting will be the 2018 FLORIDA NOW CONFERENCE in June. The Conference is being held in Tampa this year from June 1 - June 3. This year's theme is: WOMAN UP! THE TIME FOR ACTION IS NOW! Toni Van Pelt, President-National NOW will be at the Florida NOW conference and will be
- ["Ending the Criminalization of Trauma” -Palm Beach County NOW](https://flnow.org/event/ending-the-criminalization-of-trauma-palm-beach-county-now/) - We think it is crucial for the public to understand the legal and actual situation women suffer when incarceration is the only option imposed on them. Despite their history of abuse and their basic needs for dignity, treatment, and guidance they find themselves on a pipeline to imprisonment. We also know that trauma affects youngsters
- [FLNOW State Conference - Tampa](https://flnow.org/event/flnow-state-conference-tampa/) - Woman Up! The Time for Action is NOW! Florida NOW State Conference June 1-3, 2018 Westshore Marriott Tampa, Florida Keynote Speaker: Anna Rodriquez, Founder and Executive Director of the Florida Coalition against Human Trafficking
- [FLNOW State Council Online Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/flnow-state-council-online-meeting/) - Florida NOW does exercises its business at the State Council meetings. The next council meeting is Wed, March 14th, at 6:30 pm. 1. Dial into the conference: Dial-in Number: (641) 715-0632 Access Code: 891835 2. Join the online meeting: Online Meeting Link: https://join.freeconferencecall.com/terrysand18
- [Button-Making Potluck](https://flnow.org/event/button-making-potluck/) - Join us for a chance to make your own Feminist buttons, where you can choose from dozens of designs or come up with your own. Enjoy some snacks and meet some members of Gainesville's chapter of National Organization for Women. This will be a potluck event, so please consider bringing some goodies to share. Location:
- [Susan B. Anthony Awards Luncheon](https://flnow.org/event/susan-b-anthony-awards-luncheon/) - *Membership dues covers only a fraction of the costs of our efforts, therefore, this annual luncheon is our only fundraiser.* Ticket Prices $52 per member $67 for non-members or $87 (includes luncheon and one year membership) $500 for Group Table of 10 Note: Tickets will NOT be mailed * Will-call at the door Checks payable to
- [State Council Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-council-meeting-2/) - This will be an online council meeting. Chapter Leaders will be sent details. The Florida NOW State Council is where we do business. All chapters are strongly encouraged to send a duly-elected delegation. See You There! State Council Meetings are held quarterly. One meeting is held during the State Conference.
- [State Council Meeting](https://flnow.org/event/state-council-meeting/) - This will be an online council meeting. Chapter Leaders will be sent details. The Florida NOW State Council is where we do business. All chapters are strongly encouraged to send a duly-elected delegation. State Council Meetings are held quarterly. One meeting is held during the State Conference.
- [Tally Rally](https://flnow.org/event/tally-rally/) - Two-day Event: January 22 & 23, 2018 Join Barbara and Judi in Tallahassee! 1/22/18 - 5:30 pm - Candlelight Vigil to remember women who died from illegal abortions 1/23/18 - ALL DAY - Speak to legislators about anti-woman legislation bills For more info and to Sign up: 2018tallyrally@gmail.com Stand UP! Speak UP! Speak OUT! We

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## Tags

- [NOW National News](https://flnow.org/tag/now-national-news/)
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## Event Categories

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