Washington, D.C. – On the occasion of People For the American Way founder Norman Lear’s 99th birthday today, People For President Ben Jealous released the following statement:
“As our founder Norman Lear begins this 100th year of his extraordinary life, we are more grateful than ever for his vision in founding People For the American Way. Forty years ago Norman saw an urgent need for an organization to defend our American values against the rising influence of the Far Right. A member of our Greatest Generation who fought fascism in Europe, Norman understood the risk of authoritarianism and oppression gaining ground on American soil and knew it demanded a forceful rebuke. To this day, Norman remains the guiding light for People For the American Way and our multigenerational, multiracial membership. We look forward to sharing another year of this incredible man’s life, marked by genius, joy, generosity of spirit and love for humanity. Happy Birthday, Norman.”
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.