Dark Days Ahead

Sandra Day O’Connor, the first female Supreme Court Justice, has tendered her resignation after twenty-four years of service saying that she wants to spend more time with her husband who is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. O’Connor has been a crucial swing vote in protecting abortion rights, preserving affirmative action and maintaining the separation between church and state.

Full story:
http://www.time.com

O’Connor’s appointment was a victory for women. Is her abdication of one of the most influential posts in the country to devote more time to her family irresponsible? Does her resignation provide support to those who refuse to promote women in the workplace because women routinely drop the career ball when they can no longer manage the juggling act that our society requires of them?

O’Connor’s unexpected resignation, with rumors of Rehnquist’s impending retirement already circulating, raise the specter of Bush appointing two Supreme Court Justices and the elimination of our basic civil rights. The rights of women, minorities and non-Christians, in particular, are at high risk. “The Senate must stand up to President Bush and demand a Supreme Court nominee who will protect the rights and freedoms of the American people.” Sign this petition:

http://www.moveonpac.org/protectourrights/

Upcoming cases in the Supreme Court
http://www.abanet.org/publiced/preview/briefs/home.html