I got this email today, and was surprised that the Chamber of Commerce would be so opposed to letting a rape victim have access to the courts. Food for thought if you’re considering supporting the organization.
In 2005, Jamie Leigh Jones was working for a private contractor in Iraq when she was brutally gang-raped by coworkers. Four years later, Jamie is still being denied justice.
Jamie can't file U.S. criminal charges because the rape took place overseas, and a fine-print clause in her contract takes away her right to file a lawsuit in the U.S.
Congress is working to protect the rights of rape victims like Jamie. But, shockingly, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is fighting it. They say that it would "set a dangerous precedent" to allow rape victims into court.
Organizations endorsing the petition include the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, Public Citizen, Consumer Action, Workplace Fairness, National Association of Consumer Advocates, Take Back Your Rights PAC, Alliance for Justice, and the Jamie Leigh Foundation.
A compiled petition with your individual comment will be presented to U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Tom Donohue.
I hope that the Chamber sees the light on this issue and stops fighting to protect rapists.