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GOP Committee Chair Selections All Men

GOP Committee Chair Selections All Men

GOP Committee Chair Selections All Men: A Cause for Concern?

In the upcoming 117th United States Congress, the Republican Party has selected all men to lead their House committees, causing concern among some lawmakers and advocacy groups. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party has announced that at least five women will be chairing their committees in the House. This article will explore the implications of this disparity and the potential consequences of the Republican Party’s committee chair selections.

Introduction

The United States Congress has a long-standing history of gender disparities between its members. While women make up nearly half of the US population, they still only comprise a small percentage of representatives in government. This imbalance is reflected in the selection of committee chairs, particularly in the Republican Party.

The Republican Party’s Selections

In recent weeks, the Republican Party has announced the chairs for the various committees in the House of Representatives for the incoming 117th United States Congress. Notably, all of the chairs selected by the Republican Party are men. This decision has sparked backlash and criticism from lawmakers and advocacy groups. Many are questioning the party’s commitment to diversity and wondering what message this sends to the American people.

The Democratic Party’s Selections

On the other hand, the Democratic Party has committed to appointing at least five women to chair their House committees, according to a recent announcement. This move is expected to increase representation among women in the government and promote diversity in the leadership ranks. This decision has been praised by lawmakers and advocacy groups who view it as a step towards ending gender disparities in the US Congress.

Implications and Consequences

The Republican Party’s decision to exclude women from their committee chairs has significant implications for the perceptions of the party. It perpetuates the idea that women are not valued or represented equally in American politics, which could lead to negative consequences for the party’s image. Further, it could alienate female voters who may perceive the Republican Party as out-of-touch or indifferent to their concerns.

On the other hand, the Democratic Party’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has the potential to energize voters and reaffirm the party’s commitment to equitable representation. By promoting women’s leadership roles in government, the party is positioning itself as one that prioritizes the inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives.

Conclusion

The Republican Party’s selections of all male committee chairs have raised concerns about gender inequality in the government and the party’s commitment to diversity. While the Democratic Party’s decision to appoint at least five women as committee chairs has been praised for promoting inclusion and representation. Going forward, it will be important for both parties to prioritize diversity and inclusion in their leadership positions to ensure equitable representation in American politics.


After some of the nation’s top lawmakers discussed committee assignments and chairmanships for the Republican Party, a curious fact made headlines nationally.  After an election in which many Republicans blamed losses on their lack of outreach to women and minorities, all 19 committee chairmanships were awarded to white men.

Democrats are expected to have at least five women chairing House committees, with final assignments to be announced later.  The Republican Party has one female chair in the outgoing 112th Congress, Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.  Her committee term is ending, and will not be renewed.  One other GOP representative, former Vice Presidential candidate Paul Ryan, had an exception made to GOP House rules so that he could serve a fourth term as the chair of the Budget Committee.

Two more committee chair assignments remain to be chosen for the Republicans in the House.  This includes assignments on the Ethics Committee and the House Administration Committee.  However, neither of these chairpersons are expected to be women or minorities because no current GOP members of the House are assigned to either committee.

While no women were ranking GOP committee members (the members usually chosen for committee chairmanship), exceptions to the ranking member rule are somewhat frequent.  Many Beltway pundits had speculated that the GOP might try to elevate Michigan’s Rep. Candice Miller, a Congresswoman currently serving on the Homeland Security Committee.  Ranked eighth in seniority overall in the committee, she lost her chairmanship bid to Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas.

The majority of Congressional committees will continue to be headed by the same people who had previously led.  Because there has not been a change in which party controls the House of Representatives, many committee assignments and party leadership positions have remained the same.  Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced recently that she will serve another term as House Minority Leader for the Democratic Party.  Mitch McConnell and John Boehner will also continue leading the House GOP.

One bright spot for the Republican Party’s much-noted “woman problem” is its placement of women into some party leadership positions.  For the first time, Republicans have selected a woman, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington, to be their Conference chair.  Two more women, Reps. Lynn Jenkins of Kansas and Virginia Foxx of North Carolina, will serve as vice chair and secretary of the same Conference, respectively.

Continuing appointments of GOP men to chairmanships of some of the most influential committees, including the Judiciary Committee, may mean that the House will be open to passing legislation that would put limitations on women’s ability to access abortions, contraceptives, and other reproductive health services.

Sources: house.gov, washingtonpost.com

Mentally Impaired Woman Will Not Have Abortion, Court Decides

Mentally Impaired Woman Will Not Have Abortion, Court Decides

Mentally Impaired Woman Will Not Have Abortion, Court Decides

A recent legal decision in the United Kingdom has stirred a heated debate over the rights of mentally impaired women to make decisions about their own bodies. The court ruled that a mentally impaired woman who was 22 weeks pregnant at the time could not have an abortion, despite the recommendation of doctors, due to concerns over her mental capacity to make such a decision. This ruling has sparked debates about the autonomy of mentally impaired women and their right to make decisions about their own bodies.

Background of the Case

The case involved a pregnant woman with severe learning disabilities who was reportedly incapable of making decisions about her own health and wellbeing. The woman’s doctors recommended an abortion, as they believed that continuing with the pregnancy would pose risks to both the mother and the child. However, the woman’s mother, who was acting as her legal guardian, opposed the abortion and argued that it was against their Catholic beliefs to terminate the pregnancy. The court ultimately sided with the mother and ruled that the woman could not have an abortion.

Controversy Over the Legal Decision

The legal decision has sparked controversy and debate over the rights of mentally impaired women to make decisions about their own bodies. Critics argue that denying a woman the right to have an abortion, regardless of her mental capacity, violates her fundamental rights and autonomy. They also point out that it sets a dangerous precedent for other cases involving mentally impaired individuals and their right to make medical decisions.

Proponents of the ruling, on the other hand, argue that it was made in the best interests of the woman, as the decision was made based on her mother’s wishes and the fact that the woman lacked the capacity to make such a decision herself. They also argue that the decision was consistent with Catholic beliefs and values, which prioritize the protection of life.

Impact on Mentally Impaired Women

The impact of this legal decision on mentally impaired women remains to be seen. Advocates for the rights of mentally impaired individuals argue that the ruling further undermines the autonomy and agency of those with disabilities. They also worry that this decision could set a precedent for future cases and limit the rights and freedoms of mentally impaired women.

On the other hand, supporters of the ruling argue that it was a reasonable and necessary decision made in the best interests of the woman, given her condition and those values that the court holds important.

Conclusion

The recent legal decision in the United Kingdom has sparked a contentious debate over the rights of mentally impaired women to make decisions about their own bodies. Critics of the decision argue that it violates the fundamental rights of women, while supporters of the decision argue that it was made in the best interests of the woman. Ultimately, the ruling raises important questions about the autonomy and agency of mentally impaired individuals and the limits of their decision-making power.


A 32 year old Nevada woman whose developmental disabilities leave her with the mental capacity of a six year old will not have her pregnancy terminated.  This news comes according to court documents detailing an agreement reached by both parties in a court case that had attracted national attention from people on both sides of the abortion debate.

Elisa Bauer, the woman in question, lived in a group home setting with several other developmentally disabled adults and supervisory personnel.  She managed to evade security and wander away from the group home, where she apparently had sex.  The father of the child Bauer is carrying has not yet been identified or located.  Because her communication abilities are not fully developed, the court could not determine whether she had consented to the sexual activity or whether it was forcible.

When staff at the group home realized Bauer was pregnant, she was taken to a doctor, who recommended an abortion.  Bauer’s fetal alcohol syndrome has led to several health problems, including epilepsy and bipolar disorder, that require medications that can have negative health consequences for fetal life.

However, the Bauers, who had adopted Elisa from Costa Rica when she was already 12 years old, disagreed with the doctor’s recommendation.  They consider themselves devout Catholics, and due to their anti-abortion beliefs wished to have Elisa carry her child to term.

Upon hearing the decision the Bauers had made, state social services authorities became involved in the case.  A guardian ad litem was appointed for Elisa Bauer, and a hearing was requested to determine whether the abortion was in Bauer’s best interest given the health risks involved.

Although Bauer’s parents attempted to have the hearings blocked, the judge ruled against them.  However, in order to avoid more courtroom battles over their daughter’s pregnancy, they began to develop a plan in conjunction with doctors to help control the risks of Elisa’s high risk pregnancy.

Rather than forcing Elisa Bauer to have an abortion, judge Egan Walker intends to have the court hold additional hearings regarding the best way to proceed in order to minimize any risks to Elisa’s health or the health of her soon to be born baby.

Parental healthcare decisions for children have been a complicated issue in jurisprudence for decades, especially in cases involving adults with mental impairments that cause them to require legal guardians.  Bauer’s parents, as her legal guardians, claimed in court hearings that they had exclusive rights to determine how their daughter’s medical treatment would proceed.  However, the Nevada Supreme Court ruled that this was not correct, and that hearings could determine the proper course of medical treatment if the judge ruled them to be in Elisa’s best interest.

Doctors in the case have stated that Bauer’s epilepsy and bipolar disorder medications can be responsible for birth complications and defects, but that other patients with these disorders have carried pregnancies to term in the past with few ill effects, provided their pregnancies are managed with appropriate high-risk prenatal care.

Sources: ap.com, abcnews.com

New Report Says Women Forced to Give Birth, Forced to Abort

New Report Says Women Forced to Give Birth, Forced to Abort

Introduction

Abortion has been a highly contested issue in recent years, with politicians and activists on both sides of the debate holding strong opinions. However, a new report from the Guttmacher Institute sheds light on a troubling trend – the use of laws to force women to give birth or to undergo abortions against their will.

Forced Birth

The Guttmacher Institute’s report, titled “Restricting Abortion Around the World: Laws and Policies,” outlines how governments are increasingly using laws to force women to give birth. This includes mandatory waiting periods, counseling sessions, and ultrasound requirements that are designed to deter or delay women from having abortions.

In some cases, these laws are even more extreme. The report highlights cases in which women are forced to undergo cesarean sections or are arrested and imprisoned for miscarriages. The result is that women’s reproductive rights are being violated, and their right to make their own choices about their bodies is being undermined.

Forced Abortion

While forced birth is certainly a troubling trend, the Guttmacher Institute’s report also points out that there are situations in which women are forced to undergo abortions against their will. This can happen in countries that have strict policies limiting family size or that have discriminatory practices that target certain ethnic or religious groups.

In China, for example, the government’s “one-child policy” has led to reports of forced abortions and sterilizations. Women who become pregnant without permission or who exceed their family size quotas may be forcibly taken to clinics and forced to have abortions. This practice is a blatant violation of women’s reproductive rights, and it underscores the dangers of government policies that seek to control women’s bodies.

Conclusion

The Guttmacher Institute’s report on restrictive abortion laws is a wake-up call for anyone who cares about women’s rights and reproductive freedom. Whether through forced birth or forced abortion, governments around the world are using laws to exert control over women’s bodies, and the consequences are often devastating.

It’s time for policymakers, activists, and ordinary citizens to stand up and push back against these practices. We must work to ensure that women have access to the information, resources, and healthcare they need to make informed choices about their bodies and their futures. Anything less is an unacceptable violation of human rights.


Abortion took center stage as an issue women and men were interested in during this year’s election cycle.  A new report from the Guttmacher Institute, compiled based on data and policies from governments around the world, reports that the law is being used in several different ways to prevent women from making informed reproductive choices.

The United States is curtailing women’s access to abortions at the same time that women in other nations are being compelled to have abortions against their will.

In China, a rural mother, Feng Jianmei, was photographed being forced into an abortion while seven months pregnant.  Dissidents who have protested against the nation’s policies of forced abortions, sterilizations, and even infanticide have been punished harshly—some have simply disappeared into the Chinese prison system.

China is not the first country to curtail people’s reproductive freedoms by telling them that they could not have children.  India and Peru have both had forced sterilization efforts on a massive scale.  The United States also forcibly sterilized tens of thousands of women, often those with mental or physical disabilities or members of racial or ethnic minorities.

At the same time, according to the Guttmacher Institute, reproductive coercion has been occurring in other countries in a radically different direction.  In Romania in the 1980s, government policies were so strict about forbidding abortion and encouraging reproduction that women were forced to schedule monthly gynecological examinations in order to ensure that they had not had an illegal abortion.  Rates of illegal abortions still climbed, as did infant mortality and the number of children left in state care.

Turkey, Iran, and other culturally Muslim nations have also been spearheading efforts to curtail women’s ability to get an abortion.  Turkey almost made all abortions illegal earlier this year by allowing abortion only through 4 weeks of pregnancy—before most women even realize they are pregnant.

Iran, which had previously encouraged reproductive choice and family planning until it had become one of the Muslim nations with the highest rates of modern contraceptive use, has now begun to enact some anti-abortion legislation.

In the United States, too, abortion and contraception find themselves under intense scrutiny, particularly by conservative forces in federal and state legislatures.  Evangelical Christians in the United States have led a “pro-life” movement dedicated to stamping out abortion, which they decry as murder.  In many states, they have had a great deal of success limiting access to abortions and other reproductive health care by imposing waiting periods, notification requirements, and special building codes for abortion clinics.

One of the newest ways that conservatives have attempted to restrict abortion access is by requiring extensive abortion counseling, often with specific language to be used.  In some cases, the language required by the state legislatures during abortion counseling contains misinformation, including information suggesting a correlation between abortions and breast cancer rates and infertility.

Sources: guttmacher.org, house.gov

Supreme Court Ruling Affects Protesters in Abortion Debate

Supreme Court Ruling Affects Protesters in Abortion Debate

Introduction

The Supreme Court has ruled on its first case this October, and it concerns the rights of anti-abortion protesters. The case, Lefemine v. Wideman, revolves around a Christian activist group that displayed graphic images of aborted fetuses during their protests. The ruling has significant implications for free speech and the abortion debate.

The Case

The case centers around Steve Lefemine, a member of a Christian activist group that protests against abortion. Lefemine and his group frequently display graphic images of aborted fetuses during their protests in South Carolina, which has led to disciplinary action from local law enforcement.

Lefemine sued the officials, arguing that their actions violated his First Amendment right to free speech. The case made its way to the Supreme Court, which ultimately sided with Lefemine in a 9-0 decision.

The Ruling

The Supreme Court’s ruling in Lefemine v. Wideman was a victory for free speech advocates, and it has important implications for future anti-abortion protests. The Court held that local officials violated Lefemine’s First Amendment rights by using South Carolina’s disturbing the peace law to shut down his protests.

The decision means that anti-abortion protesters cannot be silenced simply because their message is controversial or offensive. It is a significant win for those who believe in the importance of free speech, regardless of the topic.

The Implications

The Supreme Court’s ruling in Lefemine v. Wideman will likely have far-reaching implications for future anti-abortion protests. It means that protesters can continue to display graphic images of aborted fetuses without fear of legal repercussions.

However, the ruling also raises questions about the limits of free speech. While the First Amendment protects speech, it does not protect all forms of expression. Some may argue that graphic images of aborted fetuses are too extreme and should not be allowed in public spaces.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s ruling in Lefemine v. Wideman is a significant victory for free speech advocates and anti-abortion protesters. While it raises questions about the limits of free speech, it also reinforces the importance of allowing controversial and offensive speech in public spaces.

The ruling sets an important precedent for future cases involving anti-abortion protests and free speech. It is a reminder that even in the midst of a heated political debate, the rights of individuals to express their opinions must be protected.


The first case to be ruled on in the new Supreme Court session this October was Lefemine v. Wideman.  The case involves a Christian activist group that is involved in anti-abortion protests.  Lefemine, as a member of this group, displayed graphic posters featuring images of aborted fetuses while protesting abortions in South Carolina.

In 2005, the group, Columbia Christians for Life, was protesting at a major intersection.  Local residents were angered by the graphic displays, and called the police department to complain.  Greenwood County police arrived on the scene and asked the protesters to remove the signs or be cited.  Because the protesters did not want to risk getting a ticket, they peacefully disbanded the protest.

After Lefemine complained to the police department, he was told that if he continued to demonstrate with the signs, they would continue to interrupt demonstrations and potentially ticket protesters.  As a result, Leftemine sued the police department for violating his First Amendment rights.

Both the district and appeals court held that Lefemine’s rights had indeed been violated by the police department, and gave the requested injunction against the police department. The Supreme Court case involved one major detail that had been left unresolved: attorney’s fees.

While the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals did decide the case in Lefemine’s favor, they stopped short of allowing him to collect attorney fees from the police department.  Lefemine appealed the case to the Supreme Court of the United States, asking for the fees to be paid.

The court traditionally awards attorney’s fees when someone has prevailed in a case.  However, both the district and circuit courts hearing the case considered Lefemine not to have “prevailed” because he was awarded only an injunction against future illegal behavior, rather than any damages.

The Supreme Court disagreed with the appeals court’s assessment of this situation, ruling that in a lawsuit, a party prevails when their relative positions change because of the resolution to the lawsuit.  Because Lefemine had already been told by the police department that they would cite him for breach of the peace for his signage if he continued to use it, and because after the injunction this would no longer occur, Lefemine had prevailed.

The Supreme Court reversed the decision made regarding attorney fees in the case.  However, they also noted that the law makes an exception on the attorney fees rule for cases in which “special circumstances would render such an award unjust.”  Neither the police department’s attorneys nor Lefemine’s had made note of any such circumstances in their petition to the Court, so this decision was sent back to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals to make a ruling on.

This case has relevance not only to anti-abortion protesters but also to any demonstrators seeking attorney fees for their lawsuits.  The ruling may make it significantly easier for groups to sue when they believe their right to assemble or protest has been violated by law enforcement.

Source: supremecourt.gov

Fisher Case Puts Affirmative Action in the Spotlight

Fisher Case Puts Affirmative Action in the Spotlight

Introduction

Affirmative action has been a contentious issue in the United States for decades, but it is now in the spotlight once again due to Abigail Fisher’s case against the University of Texas Austin. The case has significant implications for not just racial affirmative action, but also for policies that aim to increase diversity in traditionally male-dominated fields.

The Background

Justice Sandra Day O’Connor’s retirement in 2005 left a vacancy on the Supreme Court that was eventually filled by conservative Justice Samuel Alito. This change opened the door for Fisher’s case to potentially reshape affirmative action policies across the country.

Abigail Fisher claimed that she was denied admission to the University of Texas Austin based on her race, and she argued that the school’s use of affirmative action was unconstitutional. The case eventually made its way to the Supreme Court, which ruled in favor of the University of Texas in a 4-3 decision.

The Implications

The Supreme Court’s decision in Fisher’s case has significant implications for affirmative action policies. While the ruling affirmed that affirmative action is constitutional, it also placed limitations on how universities can use race as a factor in admissions decisions.

The decision allows universities to consider race in admissions, but only as a means of promoting diversity and only if race-neutral methods of achieving diversity are insufficient. This means that schools must prove that their affirmative action policies are necessary to achieve a diverse student body.

The case has broader implications for other forms of affirmative action as well. Policies that aim to increase diversity in traditionally male-dominated fields, for example, could be affected if universities are limited in their use of affirmative action.

The Future of Affirmative Action

The Fisher case and the Supreme Court’s decision highlight the ongoing debate surrounding affirmative action and its place in American society. Supporters of affirmative action argue that it is necessary to promote diversity and correct for past injustices, while opponents claim that it is unconstitutional and perpetuates discrimination.

As future cases make their way through the courts, it is likely that affirmative action will continue to be a contentious issue. The Fisher case, however, provides a framework for universities to use race-conscious admissions policies in a way that is constitutional and promotes diversity.

Conclusion

The Fisher case has put affirmative action in the spotlight, and its implications will be felt for years to come. While the Supreme Court’s decision affirmed the constitutionality of affirmative action, it also placed limitations on how universities can use race in admissions decisions.

As the debate over affirmative action continues, it is important to remember the importance of diversity in American society and the need to promote equal opportunities for all.


When Justice Sandra Day O’Connor retired in 2005, she left room for a new swing vote to be nominated who could change affirmative action policy in the United States.  Since O’Connor was replaced with the conservative Samuel Alito, Abigail Fisher’s case against the University of Texas Austin may change how affirmative action looks in the United States.  The case has implications not only for racial affirmative action, but also for policies like affirmative action for women applying to schools of engineering or other traditionally male fields.

Fisher’s case was argued in front of the Supreme Court in October, and the justices are expected to issue a ruling in the spring.

According to Abigail Fisher, a recent graduate of Louisiana State University, her earning power would have been significantly higher if she had graduated from the University of Texas Austin.  What’s more, she claims that the reason she was not able to attend the University of Texas is that the university’s affirmative action policies discriminated against her for being white.

It is true that the University of Texas Austin uses race as a factor in its admissions policy.  However, in accordance with the 2003 Supreme Court opinion in Grutter v. Bollinger, race is only used as one of many factors in a holistic rating of a candidate.  The ruling in Grutter allowed for this kind of holistic scoring system, while explicitly ruling that quota systems for racial or gender based affirmative action would not be considered constitutional.

However, Fisher’s case is an interesting one in several different ways.  For one thing, it’s not clear that Fisher would have actually been granted admission to the University of Texas regardless of whether her racial background was white, black, or any other.  According to the University’s metrics, Fisher’s lackluster standardized test scores and high school GPA would have been enough to bar her from admission even with additional points assigned for hardships or racial factors.

Additionally, it can be difficult for students to actually prove that they would have derived any benefit from having gone to a different school.

The case has been made even more interesting for court observers by Justice Elena Kagan, who recused herself from the case due to having worked on it in her capacity as the United States Solicitor General under Barack Obama.  This means that unlike in most Supreme Court cases, there is the possibility that the case would be tied, with the court’s four most conservative justices ruling against the Texas policy and the four liberal justices ruling in the university’s favor.

In the event of a tie, the lower court’s ruling is affirmed.  In this case, that would mean the University’s policy is allowed to stand, which the appeals court had previously ruled.  Questions during oral arguments from the conservative justices seemed to suggest that they, at least, would prefer to end the University’s affirmative action policies.

Sources: uscourts.gov, New York Times

Texas State Agencies Settle with EEOC For $175k

Texas State Agencies Settle with EEOC For $175k

Texas State Agencies Settle with EEOC For $175k

The Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas General Land Office have agreed to pay a combined $175,000 to settle a sex discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The two state agencies were accused of paying female employees less than men for jobs that required equal skills, effort, and responsibilities. The settlement agreement has avoided a trial and serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle for gender equality in the workplace.

The Allegations

The EEOC filed separate lawsuits against the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas General Land Office in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Both lawsuits accused the state agencies of paying female employees less than men for jobs that required equal work. The EEOC alleged that female employees were discriminated against based on their sex and that the state agencies had violated the Equal Pay Act of 1963 (EPA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The state agencies denied any wrongdoing but have agreed to settle the lawsuits for a total of $175,000. The Texas Department of Agriculture will pay $75,000, while the Texas General Land Office will pay $100,000. The settlement agreement also includes provisions requiring the agencies to conduct training on equal pay practices and report their progress to the EEOC over the next two years.

The Importance of Equal Pay

The settlement is a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality in the workplace, particularly when it comes to equal pay. Women in the United States still earn only 82 cents for every dollar earned by men, with even wider disparities for women of color. In addition, women are often subject to discrimination and harassment in the workplace, further limiting their earning potential and career growth.

The EPA and Title VII are federal laws designed to address these disparities and ensure that men and women are paid equally for the same work. The EPA prohibits employers from paying employees of one sex less than employees of the opposite sex for jobs that require equal skill, effort, and responsibility. Title VII prohibits discrimination based on sex, including inequitable pay practices.

Conclusion

The settlement between the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas General Land Office and the EEOC is a victory for gender equality in the workplace, but there is still much work to be done. The wage gap continues to persist, and women remain subject to discrimination and harassment in the workplace. Employers must remain vigilant in ensuring that they are not engaging in discriminatory practices and that employees are paid fairly for their work, regardless of their sex. The settlement serves as a reminder that gender equality is a fundamental right, and one that must be fought for and protected in all areas of society.


The Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas General Land Office have avoided a trial in sex discrimination lawsuits from current and former employees.  The EEOC alleged that both state agencies had been paying women less than men for job duties requiring equal skills, effort, and responsibilities.

Court documents by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission also stated that when the women complained about the wage discrimination issue, they were retaliated against by their employers.  One of the employees repeatedly brought up pay discrepancies with her superiors, but no action was taken by them to remedy the situation.

The violations of federal law were noticed by an employee who discovered that male program specialists hired into the Disaster Recovery Division of the Texas Department of Rural Affairs were paid substantially more than women who obtained the same position.  The total pay difference between male and female program specialists was as much as $18,000 to $20,000.

The TDRA’s disaster recovery division was eliminated for budget reasons in 2011.  While the three plaintiff women were eliminated at the time when the department was, their two male colleagues were kept on, working in the same capacity in a different department within the agency.

According to the EEOC, the conduct of the TDRA violated the federal Equal Pay Act, which also applies to state and local government agencies.  Damages in the settlement are equivalent to the back pay that would ensure that the women in the case were paid as much as their male counterparts.

Wage discrimination has been illegal at all levels of government since 1963, but discriminatory practices have often persisted.  Due to the fact that people are often reluctant to discuss or ask for information about salaries of other people working in their departments, and due to the fact that it can be difficult to compare skill and experience levels, some of these wage discrimination issues are discovered only years after the fact.

The EEOC has seen a marked uptick in wage discrimination complaints in the last year.  Part of the reason for the continued increase may have less to do with an increase in the incidence of wage discrimination and more to do with a continued effort on the part of the EEOC to identify and punish discriminatory employers.  The Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 has also made it substantially easier for employees to sue for wage discrimination even if they find out about the discrimination a long time after it begins.

Source: eeoc.gov, uscourts.gov

Indian Supreme Court Takes Steps To Stop Street Harassment

Indian Supreme Court Takes Steps To Stop Street Harassment

Indian Supreme Court Takes Steps To Stop Street Harassment

Sexual harassment on India’s streets, commonly known as “eve teasing,” has been a longstanding issue in the country. However, the Indian Supreme Court has taken a step towards addressing the problem by directing each of the states in India to develop policies to prevent this kind of sexual harassment on their streets. In this article, we explore the issue of street harassment in India and its impact on women, as well as the significance of the Supreme Court’s directives.

The Issue of Street Harassment in India

Street harassment, or “eve teasing,” has long been prevalent in India, with women frequently subjected to unwanted attention, comments and physical contact while in public spaces. It is a form of gender-based violence that affects millions of women across the country and can have serious consequences for their physical and mental well-being.

The harassment can take a variety of forms, from verbal abuse and wolf-whistling to groping and other acts of physical violence. Women are often blamed for provoking the harassment, with victim-blaming and shaming being common responses from both the public and law enforcement.

The Impact of Street Harassment on Women

The impact of street harassment on women is significant and far-reaching. It can lead to feelings of fear and anxiety, and can limit their ability to freely move about in public spaces. It can also cause psychological harm, such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Street harassment can also have economic consequences, as women may be deterred from pursuing education or employment opportunities if they feel unsafe in public spaces. It can also limit their social and civic engagement, further perpetuating gender inequality in the country.

The Supreme Court’s Directives

To address the problem of street harassment, the Indian Supreme Court has directed each of the states in India to develop policies to prevent this kind of sexual harassment on their streets. Each state is required to establish a nodal agency to receive and address complaints of sexual harassment in public spaces, as well as to deploy plainclothes policewomen to patrol these areas. The directives also call for the establishment of awareness campaigns to educate the public on the harm caused by street harassment.

The Supreme Court’s directives are significant, as they demonstrate a commitment to addressing the issue of street harassment and holding those responsible for perpetrating it accountable. They also send a message to women across the country that their safety and well-being are a priority for the government.

Conclusion

Street harassment is a serious issue in India that affects millions of women and perpetuates gender inequality. The Indian Supreme Court’s directives to each of the states in India to develop policies to prevent this kind of sexual harassment on their streets is a positive step towards ending this harmful practice. It is now up to each state to take action to make public spaces safe for women, and to work towards creating a more equal and just society.


Sexual harassment on India’s streets, a practice commonly known there as “eve teasing,” is a problem that must be alleviated within three months, according to directives given by the Indian Supreme Court this week.  The Supreme Court has directed each of the states in India to develop policies to prevent this kind of sexual harassment on their streets.

Some of the remedies that the high court proposed included cameras placed in public areas where sexual harassment or even sexual violence are most common.  Helplines to be dialed by victims of unwanted male attention could also be useful to help catch men who are harassing women.  “Eve teasing” can take several forms in India, ranging from verbal bullying to catcalls or even flashing of the genitals or groping.

Another strategy recommended by the Indian Supreme Court is to have female police officers in plain clothes watching areas where harassment is likely.  By having women officers present and able to arrest men who engage in harassing behavior toward them, the harassing behavior would likely stop in that location very quickly.

Surveys in India have consistently shown that sexual harassment is not regarded as a problem by a large number of boys and men.  While men have said that women are simply being “teased,” women have reported significant psychological problems as a result of repeated street harassment and eve teasing.

The 26 page Indian Supreme Court judgment also warns of disatrous consequences including suicide for girls who are relentlessly teased.  According to them, even being on public transit can be “a horrendous and painful ordeal.”

Private organizations and smaller public departments were also called upon to watch for incidents of harassment and take steps to prevent them from recurring.  For example, because many incidents of eve teasing occur on India’s many overcrowded buses and other public transit options, the court says that transit operators should be required to file a police complaint when a woman complains about sexual harassment.  Failure to comply would automatically result in a cancellation of permits, meaning that the bus would not be able to continue operating.

The Court noted that the Indian Constitution assures all of its citizens the “right to live with dignity and honour.”  According to the judges, three different articles of the Indian Constitution have been violated because of the states’ repeated unwillingness to tackle the problem of ongoing and pervasive sexual harassment in public places.

Sources: timesofindia.com, supremecourtofindia.nic.in, in.com

Another Police Sergeant Pleads Guilty to Civil Rights Charge

Another Police Sergeant Pleads Guilty to Civil Rights Charge

 

On September 21, 2012, the US Attorney’s Office in the District of Connecticut announced that John Miller, an East Haven Police Sergeant, pleaded guilty to using unreasonable force during an arrest.  The announcement was made by the United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, David B. Fein, and the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI, Mary Galligan. 

The plea stems from a charge by the federal grand jury for John Miller and three other East Haven officers on January 18 for several different acts of civil rights offenses.  Miller was charged with striking a person who was handcuffed and in secure custody. 

John Miller faces a maximum punishment of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  The FBI reports Miller is also on administrative leave from the East Haven Police Department.  Miller’s sentencing is scheduled for February 1, 2013.  The other defendants are still waiting for a trial. 

U.S Attorney Fein stated, “Police officers serve the people of the Connecticut with dedication and distinction, putting their safety on the line to protect others.  This case reminds us that no one is above the law.  This police officer abused his authority and violated the civil rights of a person he is sworn to protect.”  

FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Galligan stated, “When a police officer uses excessive force, he not only victimizes the person whose civil rights he violated, he undermines public trust in the professionals who are sworn to protect and serve, and do so honorably.”

If the public has information pertaining to the investigation, they are encouraged to call the FBI at 212-384-2240.  The case is being investigated by the New York Field Office of the FBI.  The case is being prosecuted by Deputy United States Attorney, Deirdre M. Daly, and Assistant United States Attorney, Krishna R. Patel.

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation

New “Maternity Mansion” in California Raises Legal Questions

New “Maternity Mansion” in California Raises Legal Questions

New “Maternity Mansion” in California Raises Legal Questions

When neighbors in a Chino Hills, California neighborhood noticed an influx of heavily pregnant Chinese women entering a house that had recently been bought, they became suspicious of what was happening inside. As it turns out, the house was a “maternity mansion,” a growing trend where wealthy Chinese women come to the United States to give birth and secure American citizenship for their children. While the practice is legal, it has raised legal and ethical questions about the business of birthright citizenship and the operation of these mansions.

What are “Maternity Mansions”?

Maternity mansions, also known as “birthing hotels,” are typically large, luxurious homes rented out for months at a time to pregnant women from other countries who want their children to be born in the United States. The practice is popular among wealthy Chinese women who want to give their children American citizenship, which comes with a range of benefits, including visa-free travel to more than 100 countries and access to better education and job opportunities.

These mansions offer a range of services to the expectant mothers, including pre- and post-natal care, meals, and transportation. The mothers typically pay tens of thousands of dollars for the experience, which includes the cost of airfare, accommodation, and other associated expenses.

Legal and Ethical Questions

While the practice of giving birth in the United States to secure citizenship for children is legal, the operation of these maternity mansions raises legal and ethical questions. Some argue that the practice is exploitative, with mothers being taken advantage of and the children being essentially used as a commodity to secure citizenship.

Others argue that the business of birthright citizenship perpetuates immigration issues in the country, with some mothers returning to the U.S. with their children to take advantage of social, educational, and economic benefits available to citizens, while never living in the country again.

The operation of maternity mansions has also raised concerns among neighbors, who complain about noise, traffic, and the presence of unfamiliar individuals in their neighborhoods. In some cases, the operation of these mansions violates zoning and health codes, and the operators of the mansions face legal repercussions.

Conclusion

The operation of maternity mansions in the United States raises legal and ethical questions about the business of birthright citizenship and the exploitation of mothers and children. While some argue that the practice is a legitimate way for mothers to secure a better future for their children, others argue that it perpetuates immigration issues and unjustly takes advantage of U.S. resources. As the popularity of these mansions continues to grow, there will be a need for legal and regulatory frameworks to address the issues at hand and ensure that the practice is conducted in an ethical and lawful manner.


When neighbors first noticed people entering the house that had recently been bought in their Chino Hills, California neighborhood, they noticed something immediately: the women tended to be Chinese and very heavily pregnant.  The large mansions in the residential area were used only as homes—what business could all the women entering and leaving the house at odd times be doing there?

The answer, as it turned out, had to do with United States citizenship.  The mansion in the quiet California neighborhood was serving as a maternity hotel, allowing Chinese citizens to have their children in the United States so that the child would automatically be an American citizen by birthright.

The seven bedroom mansion is apparently linked to a website that offers women a chance to have an American child for prices ranging up to $15,000.  Chino Hills residents are outraged by the business, which they describe as birth tourism and claim is illegal according to the zoning code that applies to the residence.

The mayor of Chino Hills, Art Bennett, has announced that the city has issued a cease and desist order to the people running the maternity hotel.  According to Bennett, hotels may not be run inside a normal residential home without proper permitting, which the home in question had not obtained or sought.

Sites that encourage wealthy women in other countries to give birth in the United States are not new.  According to abcnews.com, birthing tourism is on the upswing and is expected to continue.  Some websites advertise that as soon as the child born in the United States has turned 21, immigration laws allow them to sponsor their remaining family members for permanent residency and eventually citizenship.

Chinese citizens in the economic elite are also interested in sending their children to United States universities and colleges without incurring expensive additional tuition due to their status as foreign citizens.  Most United States colleges charge $5,000-15,000 more per year for foreign student tuition.

The website that ran the Chino Hills maternity mansion even went so far as to suggest ways for heavily pregnant women to hide their pregnancies from United States customs officials, to avoid being sent back home.  Their tactics included wearing very loose fitting clothing and having bags or accessories that worked to disguise the large pregnant belly.

In addition to Chinese birthing tourism, similar birthing hotels have opened for clientele from all over Asia and Eastern Europe.  These tend to be clustered in major United States cities with easy airport access.

Sources: abcnews.com, examiner.com

Women’s Rights Groups Unhappy With New Egyptian Constitution

Women's Rights Groups Unhappy With New Egyptian Constitution

Women’s Rights Groups Unhappy With New Egyptian Constitution

Egypt’s new constitution has been the subject of intense debate and controversy, with many women’s rights groups expressing their dissatisfaction with the lack of adequate protections for women. The constitution, which was approved in a national referendum in April 2019, has been widely criticized for rolling back many of the gains that women have made in recent years. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the concerns and criticisms of women’s rights groups in Egypt.

Background

Egypt’s history of gender inequality predates the current government. For years, women have been excluded from many sectors of society, including politics, education, and the workforce. Women’s rights groups have been actively advocating for women’s rights and gender equality for decades, and have made significant strides in recent years. However, the current government’s policy changes threaten to reverse these gains.

Criticisms of the New Constitution

The new constitution has drawn significant criticism from women’s rights groups for several reasons. These include:

No Explicit Protection for Women’s Rights: The constitution does not provide explicit protections for women’s rights, which could be used to protect women from discrimination.

Removal of Equal Opportunities Clause: The new constitution removes a provision that mandated the state to ensure equal opportunities for all citizens regardless of gender, religion, or race.

Nationality Law Changes: The constitution allows Egyptian men married to foreigners to pass on their nationality to their children, but requires women to first obtain approval from a high-ranking official to pass on citizenship to their children.

Marriage and Divorce Laws: The new constitution gives religious clerics the power to oversee marriage and divorce laws, which could result in discriminatory laws that disadvantage women.

Implementation Challenges: Women’s rights groups have also expressed concerns that, even if the protections for women were in the new constitution, the implementation could be difficult due to the lack of political will, corruption, and outdated societal norms.

Consequences of Inaction

The consequences of inaction on women’s rights could be severe. Women constitute nearly half of Egypt’s population, and any policies or laws that limit their rights could have rippling effects on the entire nation’s economy, political stability, and societal development. The gender-based discrimination could lead to a larger wealth gap and access gaps in education, healthcare, and opportunities.

Conclusion

The new constitution in Egypt has been a significant setback for the women’s rights movement in the country. Women’s rights groups have voiced their disagreement with various aspects of the new constitution, which threatens to hinder the progress that has been made towards gender equality in recent years. The implementation of policies to combat gender inequality and increase women’s rights could lead to a more prosperous and developed Egypt for everyone. Therefore, it is crucial that efforts for gender equity and protection of women are not only supported but widely promoted and enforced throughout Egypt.


According to Amnesty International, women’s rights and people advocating for minority religious groups in Egypt are unhappy with a new proposed constitution.  The new laws, if enacted, would significantly limit freedoms in the country, which has recently been torn apart by revolution and uncertainty about what form the new government should take.

One of the biggest changes that some women’s rights groups wanted to see was an end to child labor.  However, many opposition political parties that were opposed to rules for the new governing assembly of Egypt boycotted the assembly to draft a constitution.  The leaders of those parties claim that the assembly is not representative of Egyptian society, and say that the people of Egypt will not accept the constitution in its current form.

Only seven women were part of the new 100 seat Egyptian assembly when it started.  However, after protests led to even more parties boycotting the assembly, most women have left the assembly.  According to the United Nations and Amnesty International, women are discussed only in the context of home and the family.

A State Department spokesperson in the United States said in a press statement that the proposed constitutional changes “raise concerns for many Egyptians and for the international community.”  The White House has so far refused to intervene on behalf of the groups who feel they have been unfairly treated by the new proposals.

In addition to women’s rights groups, a number of minority faiths are upset over a provision that allows for only three religious faiths in Egypt: Muslim, Christian, and Jewish.  Other religious groups, including the Baha’i, are excluded from the list of approved religions, and the constitution may also prohibit some types of Muslim practice.

One of the reasons these constitutional changes have been so unwelcome for many Egyptians is that the “Arab Spring” uprisings that gave rise to the new governmental negotiations was largely caused by groups who felt that the nation had not done enough to protect human rights.  The new constitution also continues to allow trying civilians in military courts, a practice vehemently opposed to many who participated in the Arab Spring revolts.

The one bright spot for women in the new constitutional changes is that a provision forcing women’s issues to be decided solely on the basis of Islamic law was discarded.  Excitement over the removal of this provision was short-lived, however, as Egyptian women discovered the new draft had also removed protections for discrimination on the basis of sex that had been proposed in earlier drafts.

According to the U.S. State Department, the “constitutional vacuum” in Egypt has created instability that “can only be resolved by the adoption of a constitution that … respects fundamental freedoms, individual rights, and the rule of law consistent with Egypt’s international commitments.”  The State Department encouraged Egyptian leaders to meet with opposition leaders to come to an agreement among all parties.

Sources: amnesty.org, un.org, state.gov