The local chapters of the National Organization of Women went different directions on Monday, with the New York City chapter throwing its support behind the mayoral race’s only major female candidate Council Speaker Christine Quinn, while the Brooklyn-Queens chapter endorsed Comptroller John Liu.
“Christine Quinn’s candidacy is inspiring to women across New York, not simply because she is a woman, but because she is a woman who has the strongest record of accomplishment of anyone in the race,” saidSonia Ossorio, president of NOW New York City.
If elected, Quinn would become the city’s first female mayor. Ossorio pointed to her efforts on behalf of women, advocating for crisis pregnancy centers and working to cut down on sex trafficking.
Quinn’s appeal to women has not been without controversy, as she recently came under fire for blocking a vote on paid sick leave, which many had sought to cast as a women’s issue.
Meanwhile, thePolitical Action Committee of NOW’sBrooklyn-Queens chapter extolled Liu’s record on women’s issues.
“Comptroller Liu has a history of fighting for women,” said Brooklyn-Queens NOW President Shirley Ranz.”He continues to be in the forefront of the struggle against sexual trafficking. As comptroller he demonstrated the need for Pay Equity legislation. We are confident that he will be a mayor that the women of New York can rely on.”
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