July 22, 2022

Dear JOHN,

I am devastated by last night’s horrific attack that left one law enforcement officer dead and another injured. My heart goes out to the families of these brave men who put their lives on the line to protect and defend our families. Please join me in praying for the full and swift recovery of the wounded officer.

Our entire community mourns the loss of Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz, a 29-year veteran of the force who dedicated his life to serving others. As we extend our support to the men and women in blue, may we find comfort in knowing Officer Mazurkiewicz’s legacy of courage, commitment, and sacrifice will live on in our hearts forever.

This is a challenging and painful time for all of us. As we experience tragedy after tragedy, we’re also contending with the impacts of a Supreme Court that continues to strip Americans of the fundamental rights they hold dear. This moment in history calls on us to take immediate and decisive action, which is why this week in Congress, we voted to ensure rights like marriage equality and access to contraception are protected, no matter what. Read more below.

The Supreme Court has made clear that they won’t stop at just overturning Roe v Wade. Justice Thomas indicated the right to contraception could soon be on the chopping block, too—a debate that feels better suited to the 1870s, not 2022. We can't risk further action to roll back reproductive healthcare options, which is why my colleagues and I passed the Right to Contraception Act. This legislation codifies the right to safe, accessible contraception into federal law, taking preventative steps to counteract any future action by the Supreme Court that seeks to limit access to this critical part of reproductive healthcare.  

Congressman Joe Morelle Votes to Ensure Fundamental Right to Contraception Remains Protected

Congressman Morelle Speaks on the Right to Contraception Act

We have made incredible strides as a country in the fight to support and empower our LGBTQ+ community, and we won’t be forced backwards by those who seek to dismantle our progress. In 2011, I was honored to help pass legislation making New York State one of the first to legalize marriage equality before the nation followed suit four years later. It’s shameful that the Supreme Court is threatening to take away this essential right to participate in a sacred tradition—love is love, no matter who you are. 

That’s why this week, I voted to enshrine marriage equality into federal law, preventing the Supreme Court from rolling back this fundamental right for LGBTQ+ couples. I will always stand up to protect and defend the equal rights of all Americans, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

Congressman Joe Morelle Acts to Safeguard Marriage Equality

Congressman Morelle Speaks on the Respect of Marriage Act

In a moment of crisis, connecting with an expert who can provide compassionate counseling is crucial. Trained counselors at the new 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are there to help. Rather than dialing 9-1-1, you can now text or call 9-8-8 for immediate assistance during a mental health emergency. Learn more: https://988lifeline.org/ 

Please know that my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.

Warmest personal regards,

Joe Morelle

New York's 25th Congressional District