Washington, D.C. – People For the American Way today announced its endorsement of Maya Wiley in the New York City Democratic mayoral primary race. People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

"It is an honor and privilege to endorse Maya Wiley for Mayor of New York. Maya was my first boss in the civil rights field when I worked for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund as a young man. A daughter of a great anti-poverty crusader, she quickly pulled me out of the mail room and put me to work organizing mothers throughout West Harlem to stop the closure of a neonatal intensive care facility. She was, and is, a person of towering intellect and unwavering dedication to civil rights. Her commitment to ending police violence, to providing health care for all, and to climate justice and a healthy environment for all communities speaks to her willingness to fight for the dignity and well-being of all people. As mayor, she will ensure a better life for New Yorkers from day one. I am so proud to know Maya and to support her for this office, and look forward to all the great things she will do for New York as its mayor.”

About People For the American Way

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org