SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- We did it! The DNC has
just released an official draft of the National Platform, and for the first
time in history there is language that addresses gender bias in our culture.
WomenCount staked out a specific goal -- to "stop the silence" about
sexism in the media and throughout our society. Indeed, it is not enough
simply to identify examples of gender bias; the Democratic Party needs to
create a system of accountability. The Platform draft does this and concludes
the language with, "Responsibility lies with us all." We'll take it.
"It was only two weeks ago that WomenCount launched our campaign to 'Stop
the Silence!' on sexism," said Stacy Mason, Executive Director of
WomenCount.org," In that short time our grassroots efforts reached party
leaders, the media, and voters around the country."
Armed with talking points, documented examples of sexist treatment on the
campaign trail, and unwavering determination, hundreds of members of
WomenCount attended "listening meetings" around the country to make our point.
Then we took our cause directly to the Platform drafting committee. And it
worked.
"Winning language in the Platform draft is a huge accomplishment -- it is
still only a first step. "Commented Jehmu Greene, Political Director of
WomenCount.org, "There are hurdles ahead. Now, the language must be approved
by the full Platform Committee this weekend in Pittsburgh, and then it will be
subject to ratification in Denver at the convention. We will not rest until
the official Platform is printed.
WomenCount PAC was created to ensure that the 51 percent of American
citizens who are women have their values and votes counted in the political
process. So far in the 2008 election cycle, WomenCount has run a series of ads
related to the presidential campaign and made contributions to several women
candidates for Congress.
Contributions to WomenCount PAC are not tax-deductible. Contributions
will be used in federal elections, and are subject to federal law regarding
prohibited sources and limits. Contributions to WomenCount PAC are limited to
$5,000 per calendar year and contributions from corporations and labor unions
are prohibited. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and
report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of
individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year.
Paid for by WomenCount PAC and not authorized by any candidate or
candidate's committee.
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