On Historic Anniversary, Congresswoman Barbara Lee Featured at Sorensen Center’s “Critical Voices” Event

Date: April 3, 2023 

On the 20th anniversary of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, in conversation with journalist Carol Jenkins, shared strategies for protecting our democracy and advancing peace and justice.

The Sorensen’s Center “Critical Voices: From Local to Global” event was co-sponsored by many CUNY Law student organizations, including the Black Law Students Association (BLSA). “I am so honored to introduce these two civil rights icons,” said Lorraine Bishop ’23, BLSA’s Academic Chair and a 2023 Sorensen Center Fellow. “There is no better way to celebrate Women’s History Month!”

Congresswoman Lee, the highest ranking Black woman in the U.S. Congress, has served California’s 13th (now 12th) District since 1998. Immediately after 9/11, she courageously cast the lone vote against a sweeping authorization that reduced Congress’s oversight over the United States’ use of force around the world and was the basis for the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. The Congresswoman noted that the AUMF has subsequently been used over 40 times in 19 countries not related to 9/11. She has led a decades-long efforts to repeal the authorization, which received a favorable vote for repeal in the Senate several days after her Sorensen Center visit.

“This is a moment to reflect on the many contributions Congresswoman Lee has made to peace and security,” said Ariana Smith ‘20, Executive Director of Lawyers Committee for Nuclear Policy during the lunch reception. “She helped to negotiate the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and pushed for the U.S. to rejoin, called for the U.S. to adopt a no-first-use policy to reduce nuclear risks, and supported the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.”

Congresswoman Lee and Carol Jenkins also addressed the rolling back of many rights in the U.S., including voting, reproductive, LGBTIQ+, environmental, and labor. “You have to see this as a threat to our democracy and a move toward autocratic rule,” said Congresswoman Lee. “These aren’t siloed policies…this is a wake-up call.”

Before departing for Washington, DC, the Congresswoman was warmly recognized for her inspiration and impressive work by the many attendees, including Ted Sorensen’s widow, Gillian Sorensen. The Congresswoman responded, “You inspire me. These are moments that keep me going.”

Watch the full discussion below!