Washington, DC—Following breaking news that the House of Representatives has again passed legislation, HR51, to admit the District of Columbia as the 51st state, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“Statehood for the District of Columbia is a vital step forward in the fight for racial equity, justice and fairness for all Americans. Under the status quo, residents of D.C. –a population that is more than 40 percent Black– continue to be treated as second-class citizens and denied full representation and a voice in deciding their futures and the direction of our nation. This further perpetuates racial inequity and political suppression of Black Americans. In a country which portrays itself as the world’s leading democracy, we cannot allow this to continue. We are relieved to see that the House recognizes this injustice and has taken steps to resolve it. Now it is time for the Senate to pass this legislation and for President Biden to sign it into law.”

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.