NCJW Elects Linda Slucker President, Launches Campaign to Defend Reproductive Freedom

We wish a huge Mazal Tov to TSTI member Linda Slucker on her recent election of President of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) 

March 11, 2011, New York, NY — The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) concluded its 45th national convention with the installation of Linda Slucker as its president for the 2011-2014 term. The convention, held in Dallas, Texas, set policy for the next three years, elected officers, and recognized national leaders who have championed issues of concern to NCJW. They included House Democratic Majority Leader Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA); filmmaker Alexandra Pelosi; Terry O’Neill, president of the National Organization for Women; Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL); and Hannah Rosenthal, US Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism. 

NCJW CEO Nancy Kaufman delivered the keynote address. Noting that “change only happens when we are part of a community that knows how to build and access power,” Kaufman called on NCJW members to double the number of NCJW activists — “to organize ourselves and our friends and allies to take action” to save reproductive rights and fight for NCJW’s progressive agenda.”

The convention launched an emergency NCJW campaign, “Voices for Reproductive Choices,” which will combat efforts pending in Congress to severely restrict women’s access to abortion, contraception, and even much-needed preventive healthcare, such as mammograms, pap smears, and HIV and STD testing. The campaign will mobilize NCJW’s membership and the broader pro-choice Jewish community to reach out to Congress and to the general public in defense of women’s reproductive choices.

In her acceptance speech, Slucker noted that NCJW members “are inspired by our Jewish values, but more importantly, we are empowered by them.” She added that, “Through our continued commitment to social justice, peace, human rights, and individual freedoms we can make the difference we so firmly aspire to achieve.” Slucker also noted the critical role of NCJW’s sections (chapters), of building broad coalitions, and of backing up action with resources.

An NCJW member for more than 35 years, Slucker has held many posts in NCJW and in the wider community. She resides in West Orange, NJ.

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.