U.S. Commission on Civil Rights

2002 PRESS RELEASES, ADVISORIES AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

LANDMARK LEGAL RULING PRESERVES INDEPENDENCE OF U.S. COMMISSION ON CIVIL RIGHTS

Commissioner Victoria Wilson retains disputed seat

(Washington, D.C.) Today U.S. District Court Judge Gladys Kessler affirmed the Commission's position that every person seated on the Commission is entitled to serve a full six year term. This ruling ended the attempt by the Bush White House to cut short the term of President Clinton's appointee, Commissioner Victoria Wilson. In granting the Commission a voice as an intervenor in the case, the Court recognized the institution's special role as an independent agency. The Court's ruling is a historic victory. While assuring that Commissioner Victoria Wilson will remain in her seat to serve out her full term, the Court has also preserved the independence and integrity of the Commission.

02/04/02