Statement of Alliance for Justice President Nan Aron On Confirmation of Thomas E. Perez as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights

Washington, DC — The Senate confirmed a strong leader for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division with today’s 72-22 vote for confirmation of Thomas E. Perez as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights.

“Tom Perez is a highly qualified nominee with a big job ahead of him – meaningfully enforcing federal civil rights law,” said Nan Aron, President of Alliance for Justice.

“Attorney General Holder has pledged to restore traditional civil rights enforcement, implement measures to depoliticize hiring, and bring on new attorneys committed to enforcing, rather than eviscerating, civil rights protections.

“Tom Perez will carry out that mission, defending the rights of every American and advancing the values of freedom, equality, and justice that make this nation great.

“It’s ironic that many of those who demanded a cloture vote today sought to do away with the filibuster during the Bush administration. We hope the final bipartisan vote signals that the Senate is ready to pick up the pace in confirming executive branch nominees."

For more information, or to speak with Alliance for Justice President Nan Aron, contact Gaye Williams at 202-822-6070.