A tribute to Ruth Bader Ginsberg in front of the county courthouse, created as part of the Milford Garden Club’s HerStory project celebrating the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage (Photo by Frances Ruth Harris)
To the Editor:
Every American owes a debt of gratitude to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Though small in stature, she leaves behind the legacy of a giant. She was not only a trailblazer for women, she was an architect of foundational principles of equality that have benefitted every one of us.
While most of America grieves, Republican senators are working to erase RBG’s legacy by stacking the Supreme Court with staunchly conservative ideologues who will do their bidding. The GOP-led Senate is plowing ahead to fill the vacancy despite polling that shows a clear majority of Americans wants them to wait so the people have a say in the direction our country will take. It’s unconscionable that they would alter the Court just weeks away from the General Election, defying their own precedent set in 2016.
The next Supreme Court could turn back decades of progress on healthcare, marriage equality, workers’ rights, the environment, victims’ rights, Roe v. Wade, and yes, even our democracy. With a 6-3 conservative majority on the Court, voter protections could easily be chipped away, while gerrymandering and bottomless corporate contributions will continue to tilt our elections.
But we are not powerless. First, call or write Sen. Pat Toomey today and insist he wait to fill the vacant Supreme Court seat until after the Presidential inauguration in January 2021. This will ensure the voice of the people is heard. Secondly, it’s imperative you make a plan to vote on Nov. 3 for progressive candidates who will represent all of us.
It’s our turn to walk in the footsteps of Justice Ginsburg and fight for the ideals for which our country stands: equal justice and equal rights for everyone – no exceptions.
Jessica Steward Brittain and Lisa Napersky
Action Together NEPA Board Members
Mountain Top, Pa.