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[image of co-presidents, Keith Thirion and Betsy Miller Kittredge]

Dear John,

As we here at Alliance for Justice continue to work towards creating a fair, just, and free society, we find ourselves constantly inspired by the unwavering support, dedication and courage of people like you. When news and information often come at us at breakneck speed, we are heartened to stand firmly with you in this progressive space, striving for equity and an expansive and inclusive democracy together.

This month we wish to honor Alicia Peyton, an integral part of the AFJ family. Alicia has been an eternal beam of light and strength within our organization, dedicating 27 years of her life to this work. Her inspiring journey makes us believe that change is possible, that together, we can pave the way toward a better future. You can read more about Alicia and her time at AFJ in the link below.

September is also sustainer month at AFJ. Our monthly donors are a vital part of funding AFJ’s work. Becoming a monthly donor [link: [link removed]] guarantees consistent and reliable support for our work, allowing us to plan more effectively and enables us to channel more of our energy into our core mission and the impactful work we do. Consider the monthly option in your giving plans.

For 45 years AFJ has been the trusted voice for fairness and equality in our court and for our democracy. And the journey continues. We're on a mission to transform the justice system, expand access to justice, and impact policy reforms. It is often easy to underestimate the power of a single act of generosity, but every action counts. A world of justice begins with people like you. Remember, it's only through the collective voices of people like you that we can continue working towards a reality where justice isn't a luxury, but a right accessible to all.

Thank you for your steadfast support. Your passion for justice makes this journey worthwhile.

Best,

Keith & Betsy
Co-Interim Presidents


Federal Courts

Ethical concerns about Chief Justice John Roberts’s behind-the-scenes influence on key cases continue to raise alarms about transparency at the Supreme Court. From steering decisions in former President Trump’s favor to bypassing procedural norms, Roberts’s actions have spotlighted the urgent need for reform. As the new term begins on October 7, it’s clear that accountability within the Court is more critical than ever.

On a brighter note, the Senate is making progress on judicial nominations, recently confirming five new judges, including Mary Kay Lanthier (D. VT), a former public defender who brings crucial professional diversity to the bench. While we celebrate these confirmations, we urge the Senate to prioritize votes on the following long-pending nominees:

Byron B. Conway, for the Eastern District of Wisconsin [link: [link removed]]

Jonathan E. Hawley, for the Central District of Illinois [link: [link removed]]

April M. Perry, for the Northern District of Illinois [link: [link removed]]

Gail A. Weilheimer, for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

State Courts

AFJ’s State Courts team is also following several upcoming leadership changes to state supreme courts around the nation. This year, over 80 seats are up for election across 33 states. Do you know if your state is holding an election for your state supreme court? Check it out here! [link: [link removed]]

Meanwhile, South Carolina’s highest court gained gender diversity with the appointment of Justice Letitia Verdin, but lost its only Black justice, Chief Justice John Beatty, when Beatty retired from the court on July 31. Maryland's Justice Michele Hotten retired this past spring and was replaced [link: [link removed]] by Peter Killough, who was sworn in on August 31. And the Nebraska Supreme Court's chief justice, Mike Heavican, announced he will retire later this year, with a hearing on the four applicants [link: [link removed]] to replace him coming up on October 4.

Explore recent cases from around the country impacting crucial issues, including criminal procedure, education, environmental protections, executive authority, firearm restrictions, housing rights, LGBTQ+ rights, public records access, reproductive rights, statutory interpretation, and voting rights. Find out all about these important decisions here! [link: [link removed]]

Latest Resources from Bolder Advocacy

With the presidential election quickly approaching, it's crucial for nonprofits to be prepared to advocate effectively and empower their communities. Bolder Advocacy is here to help with our new on-demand nonprofit advocacy trainings, available 24/7 to fit your schedule. Whether you're organizing Get Out the Vote (GOTV) efforts or navigating nonpartisan election advocacy, these expert-led sessions, available in both English and Spanish, will equip your organization with the tools to make an impact when it matters most. [link: [link removed]]

Additionally, check out our latest podcast episode, where we explore the evolving role of AI in elections. Jonathan Mehta Stein, Executive Director of California Common Cause, joins us to discuss how AI, particularly generative AI, is being used to create deepfakes and misleading content that could deceive voters and destabilize elections. He breaks down the dangers of AI-driven disinformation and highlights how nonprofits and community organizations can help combat this growing threat to democracy. [link: [link removed]]

Our Membership and Outreach Community

Not registered for Holding Court yet? Don’t miss your chance to hear top legal minds like Ari Melber and Elie Mystal break down the 2024-2025 Supreme Court term and its potential impact on our country. Join us on Tuesday, October 8, for an evening of insight, discussion, and refreshments — secure your spot today! [link: [link removed]]

We're also excited to welcome our newest member organizations, and we'd like to shine a light on ACLU Nebraska.

For over 50 years in Nebraska, the ACLU has worked in courts, legislatures, and communities to protect the constitutional and individual rights of all people. With a nationwide network of offices and millions of members and supporters, including an ever-growing providing legal assistance and financial support for legal proceedings involving civil liberties and civil rights and delivering speeches or providing classes and materials to promote civil liberties education.

AFJ 45th Condensed Timeline Graphic

ALICIA PROFILE

For 27 years, Alicia Peyton has been a cornerstone of Alliance for Justice—and she’s just as passionate about the work today as when she first started. As AFJ's longest-serving employee, Alicia’s role as Director of Administration covers everything from HR to benefits, but what truly drives her is being part of an organization that fights for those who can’t always fight for themselves.

One of her most unforgettable moments happened in her very first year at AFJ. The team helped free Jesus Collado, an immigrant wrongly detained due to unjust immigration laws. That victory opened Alicia’s eyes to the real power of AFJ’s advocacy, a feeling she’s carried with her ever since.

When Alicia isn’t immersed in AFJ’s mission, you’ll find her by the water, soaking in the serenity and reflecting on her love for God, family, and the impact she’s made.

Get to know Alicia’s incredible journey here! [link: [link removed]]

Important Dates:

September 15-October 15: Hispanic Heritage Month

September 26: How Nonprofits Add 501(c)(4)s to Expand their Movement Impact feat. Bolder Advocacy Director, Natalie Roetzel Ossenfort; register here [link: [link removed]]

October: National Disability Employment Awareness Month

October: LGBTQ+ History Month

October 10: World Mental Health Day

October 11: National Coming Out Day

October 12: Anniversary of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)

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