Ramirez Calls Out Republican Efforts to Crush American Civil Society, Erode Democracy

Washington, DC— Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 9495, legislation that would empower the secretary of the Treasury and the executive branch to designate any nonprofit as a “terrorist supporting organization” —without due process— and revoke its tax-exempt status:

“From Chicago to Latin America to active war zones, civil society is often the first and most resilient line of defense from government-sponsored violence for many vulnerable communities. As the former executive director of a nonprofit in Chicago, I have seen these organizations nurture and sustain a healthy democracy by providing life-saving services–including housing and warm meals– while holding those in power accountable. Without a robust civil society, countries can descend into instability, their governments becoming prone to authoritarianism, human rights abuses, and the erosion of democratic freedoms. 

With the passage of HR9495 – legislation that punishes organizations for dissent – it is becoming increasingly clear that Trump and his loyalists are preparing to teardown any democratic protection against his campaign of retribution. The incoming administration has made clear its intention to retaliate against those who work to expand voting rights and government transparency, serve immigrants, assist LGBTQ individuals,  provide reproductive care, and any others who do not comply with what we know to be his antidemocratic plan. This legislation gives them the power to do so without evidence or explanation, threatening the vulnerable communities we must organize to protect. The signs of authoritarianism–the ones we have so fervently fought against in other parts of the world– should alarm all of us.

Despite my deep disappointment in my colleagues who supported the passage of this legislation, I still hold hope because I am part of a coalition ready to protect our communities from Trump’s antidemocratic agenda. I believe in the elected officials, the organizations, and the everyday people in Chicago, in Illinois, and around our nation who are willing to put their differences aside, roll their sleeves, and fight like HELL for our neighbors. I will work every day to ensure that we must show up together to do everything in our power to protect our communities from Trump’s retribution and our democracy from Trump’s violence.”