New York, NY— Yesterday, the Californian Court of Appeal rejected the challenge against Proposition N - which allows noncitizen residents who are adult parents or guardians of children under the age of 19 living in San Francisco to vote in school board elections.
Theodore A. Moore, Vice President of Policy & Programs, New York Immigration Coalition:
“Yesterday’s California Court decision marks a major triumph for voters and immigrant parents in San Francisco and the movement for expanding and protecting voting rights around the country. Every San Franciscan parent, regardless of their immigration status, must continue to have a voice in matters concerning the educational needs of their children to ensure fairness and equity in our local system. We congratulate our friends at Chinese for Affirmative Action and the entire Immigrant Parent Voting Collaborative on this amazing victory and hope that pending the decision in the Fossella v. New York City appeal, New York City will follow San Francisco’s lead and reestablish municipal voting. While immigrants contribute to the economic, social, and cultural vitality of NYC, far too many cannot participate in the civic processes that shape their daily lives. Because of this we urge the NYS Supreme Court, Appellate Division to reinstate the Our City, Our Vote law."