WASHINGTON, D.C. — People For the American Way and People For the American Way Foundation today announced the addition of six new board members whose diverse expertise and unwavering values will strengthen the two organizations’ work to combat authoritarianism and advance freedom, justice, and democracy.
“As threats to our democratic institutions grow more urgent, these new board members bring vital perspective, energy, and leadership to help us meet this moment,” said Svante Myrick, President and CEO of People For the American Way and its affiliated Foundation. “Their dedication to bringing out the best in America and protecting our fundamental rights and freedoms reflects everything People For stands for. We are honored to have them by our side in this fight.”
People For the American Way Welcomes Oscar Winner Jamie Lee Curtis to its Board
People For the American Way is proud to welcome Jamie Lee Curtis, the acclaimed actress and longtime ally of the organization, to its board of directors.
Jamie Lee Curtis is an Oscar, Emmy, and Golden Globe–winning actress, producer, and bestselling author of children’s books. A fierce advocate for children’s health, the environment, and people in recovery, Curtis brings her public voice and her belief in the power of storytelling to drive progress.
Curtis sees her board service as a way to continue the legacy of her close friend Norman Lear, the late legendary television producer and founder of People For the American Way.
“Norman dedicated his life to preserving and strengthening our democracy,” said Jamie Lee Curtis. “Today, I’m proud to follow in Norman’s path and join People For the American Way in making the promise of America real for everyone.”
In addition to Curtis, People For also warmly welcomes:
- Anderson Clayton, the youngest state Democratic Party Chair in the country, currently leads the North Carolina Democratic Party. Clayton is known for her grassroots organizing savvy and for bringing a new generation of leadership into Southern politics.
- Kwabena Nsiah is a Principal with theGROUP. He is a veteran of Capitol Hill, having served as the Chief of Staff to former Congressman Cedric Richmond and Policy Director for the Congressional Black Caucus. Nsiah brings significant legislative insight and thoughtful counsel on policy and political matters.
- Edward Rooker is a Senior Associate Attorney at DLA Piper. He advises clients on a range of employment-related matters, including workplace policies, compliance, and litigation. He is a former member of the YEO Network.
People For the American Way Foundation Announces New Board Members
People For the American Way Foundation, the 501(c)(3) affiliate that leads educational efforts, is pleased to welcome two new board members.
- Zenas Hutcheson is a contemporary artist based in New York City. His work in photography focuses on the sublime, romanticism, and nature. Hutcheson’s background is rooted in dance, media, and performance.
- Stephen Smith is an accomplished leader in philanthropy, with over 15 years of experience securing hundreds of millions of dollars in donor support. A former member of the Ithaca Common Council and a member of Young Elected Officials network, Smith has been a long-time champion for affordable housing and development for all families.
“These extraordinary individuals reflect the spirit and future of People For,” added Svante Myrick. “We are grateful to them for lending their time, insight, and leadership to defend democracy—in principle and in practice.”
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About People For the American Way
People For the American Way is a national progressive advocacy organization that inspires and mobilizes Americans to defend freedom, justice, and democracy from those who threaten to take them away. For more than four decades, we have been dedicated to making the promise of America real for everyone and have worked toward a vision of a vibrant America where basic rights and freedoms are upheld for all, not just the wealthy and the powerful. Learn more: http://www.peoplefor.org
About People For the American Way Foundation
People For the American Way Foundation is a national organization that educates and inspires Americans to defend freedom, justice, and democracy from those who threaten to take them away. For more than four decades, we have been dedicated to making the promise of America real for everyone and have worked toward a vision of a vibrant America where basic rights and freedoms are upheld for all, not just the wealthy and the powerful. Learn more: http://www.peoplefor.org/foundation
