Democracy for America endorses Norman Siegel for Public Advocate

Released: Jul 1, 2009 3:33 PM

By Joe Frandino

BURLINGTON, VT — Democracy for America, our nation's largest progressive political action community, endorsed Norman Siegel for New York State Public Advocate. He is the only DFA-endorsed candidate in this race.

As executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, Siegel has been at the frontline of some of New York City’s most critical civil liberties struggles. He also served for eight years in a private civil liberties practice.

"Norman Siegel is a lifelong New Yorker who understands the unique needs of the city and its people," said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. "As Public Advocate, he will continue to fight for healthcare as a human right, work towards a greener New York, advocate for same-sex marriage and support reform in New York City schools."

Siegel helped demand an independent Civilian Complaint Review Board, fought for the NYS Equal Rights Amendment, successfully defended the Brooklyn Museum's right to exhibit controversial art, defended West Harlem and Brooklyn residents and businesses against abuses of eminent domain, and sued to obtain same-sex marriage licenses for the "Nyack 10.”

"His long and esteemed career is built on standing up for the rights of all citizens," said Dean. "It is because of his continued defense of our constitutional rights, including freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, that we endorse Norman Siegel for NYS Public Advocate."