NLIRH Calls for Swift Confirmation of Judge Sotomayor

In anticipation of the Judiciary Committee vote, the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health (NLIRH) called on the Senate to confirm federal appellate Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court. Throughout the hearings, Judge Sotomayor expressed unwavering respect for the right to privacy and settled law, including the pivotal decision Roe v. Wade to legalize abortion. NLIRH, the nation’s leading voice for Latina reproductive health and justice, issued the following statement in support of Judge Sotomayor: “NLIRH stands in solidarity with Judge Sotomayor as she moves one step closer to becoming the first Hispanic judge on the Supreme Court,” said Silvia Henriquez, NLIRH Executive Director. “Judge Sotomayor has shown time and again that she respects prior Supreme Court decisions and will continue to uphold a woman’s right to choose. After listening to Judge Sotomayor’s responses to extensive questioning, we are confident that she recognizes the pivotal role she will play in promoting the dignity and well-being of our families and our community.” At 46 million, Latinos are the nation’s largest and fastest growing minority group. Nine million Latinos voted in the 2008 elections. Unfortunately, Latinos still report high rates of discrimination. “From equal protection under the law to education and health care access, Supreme Court decisions have a daily impact on all Americans. These decisions shape the lives of today’s generation as well as generations to come, making it all the more necessary for the Supreme Court to understand and appreciate the diversity of experiences in this country. We hope that the Senate will show its full and immediate support for Judge Sotomayor,” added Henriquez. Silvia Henriquez, Executive Director, and Jenny Jourdain, Associate Director of Policy, are available for comment. To arrange an interview, please contact Andrea Hagelgans of Camino PR at 212.255.2575 and 646.575.2956.