SUCCESSFUL LOBBYING BY THE LWVNY AND OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY GROUPS!

Pollinators are vital members of healthy ecosystems and our food supply chain. Protecting them by limiting toxins that pose adverse effects and health risks is an important step forward in our work to stop poisoning the environment and create a healthier New York.
This Act bans the neonic coatings on corn, soybean, and wheat seeds, and lawn and garden uses (with an exception for invasive species treatments). Neonics are linked to massive bee and bird losses that impact food production, contaminate New York water and soil, and create human health concerns, especially with recent testing showing rising levels of neonics in 95+% of pregnant women from New York and four other states.  We thank all who lobbied for passage of this bill, and thank our NYS bi-partisan legislators who voted for its passage!

Former NYC Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney spoke to the LWV-NYS Convention attendees about her work on the national Equal Rights Amendment. She spoke of the history of its passage and ratification, and emphasized the need to still advocate for acceptance of the ratification and certification of the amendment. For more information on this nationwide effort, and to sign the petition, go to:  sign4era.org

Gigi B. (Dobbs Ferry High School), and Christian B., (Sleepy Hollow High School), were chosen by LWVR to attend this year’s “Students Inside Albany” program. In May they joined 60 students from across NYS to learn the ins-and-outs of state government, including the State budget process, roles of lobbyists, media in politics, as well as citizen rights to access government information.
During their time in Albany they “shadowed” Assembly representative and LWVR member Maryjane Shimsky.

CONGRATULATIONS TO BOTH!

We had a table at the 7th Annual Women’s Empowerment Conference, this year titled “Women Raising Our Voices: Owning Our Power, Owning Our Minds, Owning Our Future.”  We were available to register students and let participants know about the LWV.

The conference, held annually during Women’s History Month in March, brings together Mercy College faculty, staff, students and also members of the community. Starting with a keynote speech by Chamique Holdsclaw, former professional player for the Women’s National Basketball Association and Olympic athlete, who also is a mental health advocate and author, the full-day program included an engaging panel discussion and interactive workshops.

To watch the keynote speech made by Chamique Holdsclaw, please click HERE