PHOENIX — Twelve organizations released the following joint statement explaining their refusal to participate in the Arizona State Senate Committee on Government hearing on Monday, January 24, 2022, which Chairwoman Kelly Townsend will lead:
“Due to Chairwoman Townsend and Senate leadership’s refusal to allow remote testimony, we ask that our partners, supporters, and all Arizonans not put themselves at risk by attending in-person hearings, where they will likely face an unsafe environment. Additionally, Chairwoman Townsend, along with others on the committee, have a proven track record of disrespectful discourse with our representatives when we speak in this committee. In the past, Arizonans have been met with abuse and threats of violence for voicing their concerns during her committee hearings, rendering her committee hearings as unsafe.
“Chairwoman Townsend has also positioned herself as one of the frontliners in spreading lies and election conspiracy theories to garner support for legislation that intends to sabotage future elections and silence Arizona voters. As always, we will continue to defend democracy and fight to expand access to the ballot, so we will instead focus on other, more effective methods of advocacy to stop bad policies.
“We are at a critical time in our democracy, and we will continue to defend ourselves against attacks by radical extremist lawmakers. When the chairwoman brings forward thoughtful policy changes to elections procedures, we will be there to participate as a stakeholder and as a voice for strengthening our democracy and protecting the freedom to vote.”
This statement is endorsed by the following organizations:
All Voting Is Local
Arizona Center for Empowerment
Living United for Change in Arizona
Arizona Faith Network
AZ AANHPI for Equity
Arizona Democracy Resource Center
ADRC Action
Chispa Arizona
Progress Arizona
Rural Arizona Action
Sierra Club – Grand Canyon Chapter
Mi Familia Vota