CEDAW's 30th Birthday: The Present That the President Should Give

30 years ago tomorrow, December 18, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Treaty for the Rights of Women — the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). CEDAW establishes international protections upholding the rights of women: it offers women redress against violence, guarantees equal access to education, and commits nations to fighting maternal mortality.

For 30 years and counting, the United States has failed to ratify the treaty — making it one of only a handful of nations that have not done so, including Iran, Sudan, and Somalia.

The State Department supports CEDAW ratification — but President Obama needs to show strong leadership so that the U.S. can finally ratify this crucial treaty. The best birthday present he could give is to raise his voice in support. AIUSA is joining Citizens for Global Solutions to encourage President Obama to act. Call or email the president tomorrow, December 18!

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