Sharing here because Head Start is one of the many programs that is discussed on any number of listservs devoted to disability advocacy.. If you wish to track H.R. 1429, the Head Start Act, GovTrack.us offers a number of options for successfully doing so and, in fact, is probably one of my Top 10 disability advocacy resources for recommendation..
May 1, 2007 - This week, the US House of Representatives will likely vote to reauthorize funding for the successful – and historic –Head Start program. This program, which provides assistance to low-income children and families, has been an important part of America’s effort to promote school readiness and ensure that all Americans are able to receive the education that they deserve.
Unfortunately, even with bipartisan support expected for the reauthorization of Head Start (H.R. 1429), Rep. John Boehner (R-OH) is expected to offer a "Motion to Recommit". This legislative trick would stall the bill, strip it of its current civil rights protections, and legalize religious discrimination.
Call your member of Congress TODAY at 202-224-3121 and urge him/her to oppose this "Motion to Recommit". Tell him/her to support the reauthorization of Head Start (H.R. 1429) without this discriminatory change!
What's at Stake?
Under current law, religious organizations that provide federally funded Head Start programs cannot make hiring decisions based on religion.
The "motion to recommit" would attempt to remove civil rights protections that prohibit religious discrimination against the thousands of employees and volunteers who serve the Head Start program.
Resource: Leadership Conference on Civil Rights/LCCR Education Fund newsletter..
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