NCJW Public Affairs
NCJW's Public Affairs Department is responsible for local NCJW advocacy efforts as well as issues-oriented education for the Section.

The Section's focus is determined by the NCJW National Resolutions and local community needs.

Some Public Affairs topics go on to become NCJW Community Service projects like CASA and Bridgehaven.

2004-2005 Public Affairs Officers
NCJW-Louisville Section

Sharon Berger
Vice-President, Public Affairs and Legislative Chair

Polly Adler
Legislative Issues

Marlene Schaffer
Education Chair

Annette Kaplan
Community Relations Council Representative

Lois Dunner
Kentucky Youth Advocates Representative

Pam Vitaz
Metropolitan Housing Coalition Representative

Leni Sweet
State Public Affairs (SPA)

Kentucky Legislative Agenda

I. Women's Issues
NCJW believes that the freedom, dignity and security of every individual are basic to American democracy, and that any hindrance of these rights undermines our society.
Therefore, NCJW supports:
A. Health insurance coverage for women that provides for a full continuum of preventive to aftercare services, including diagnosis and treatment for all physical and mental conditions and prescription equity
B. Every woman's right to privacy regarding reproductive choice without government interference. This includes the right to choose an abortion and the elimination of obstacles and practices that restrict reproductive freedom
C. Pay equity and equal opportunities for advancement for all individuals

II. Well-being of Children and Families
NCJW believes that the mental and physical health and welfare of Kentucky's citizens depends upon our commitment to focus more state and federal revenue on the needs of those families seeking economic independence.
Therefore, NCJW supports:
A. Quality, comprehensive child care and early childhood programs which are affordable and accessible for all
B. Increased state funding for job training, placement, transportation, and retention programs
C. Increased funding for child health needs and childcare issues
D. Community efforts to create more employment opportunities that will provide an adequate living wage
E. Ongoing funding for Medicare/Medicaid programs to ensure the health and welfare of our senior Kentuckians
F. Laws to restrict and regulate guns

III. Education
NCJW believes in each child's right to a quality public education in a safe environment which will enable her/him to reach full potential.
Therefore, NCJW supports:
A. Community school collaborations to eliminate obstacles which interfere with a successful school experience (e.g. truancy, unsafe learning environment)
B. Designation of public funds for public schools only
C. Kentucky's ongoing efforts to improve our state's education system which include strong parent-school-community partnerships and increased teacher training opportunities

IV. Domestic Violence
NCJW recognizes that violence against women and children occurs in all socio-economic and cultural groups, and is one of society's most pervasive problems.
Therefore, NCJW supports:
A. The concept of a community based approach to the problem of domestic violence which will increase public awareness, prevention efforts, and accountability of all aspects of the legal system
B. Increased funding for victim services and shelters for battered women and their children
C. Monitoring for full compliance with state statutes designed to ensure safety

V. Individual and Civil Rights
NCJW believes that individual liberties and rights guaranteed by the Constitution are keystones of a free and pluralistic society and must be protected and preserved
Therefore, NCJW supports:
A. The separation of religious and state issues
B. The enactment and enforcement of laws and regulations which protect civil rights and individual liberties for all
C. The enactment of laws and policies which eliminate discrimination on the basis of race, gender, national origin, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, marital status or sexual orientation

Related Organizations

email: office@ncjwlou.org
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