Statement on the Government Shutdown
October 01, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: vochoa@eracoalition.org
Washington DC - The abhorrent assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, and the attempted assassination of another Minnesota State legislator John Hoffman strike at the heart of our community. Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman was a respected leader, public servant, and unwavering champion of the Equal Rights Amendment.
“Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman was an ERA champion who shepherded the Minnesota State Equal Rights Amendment ballot initiative twice through the MN House of Representatives. ERA Minnesota mourns this unspeakable tragedy and decries the political violence perpetrated on our legislators and their families.”
Betty Folliard, Founder of ERA Minnesota and Former MN State Representative
“We are heartbroken by this tragic act of violence. Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman was a fearless advocate for equality. We mourn with our partners in Minnesota and around the country; firm in our resolve to see equality realized across the nation.”
Zakiya Thomas, President and CEO of the ERA Coalition
State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were among the victims of this heinous act.
This was not just an attack on individuals. The assailant aimed to silence what they represent – democratically elected officials who serve the public and govern in the interest of their constituents. We won’t give in to violence and intimidation but will continue to work for equality in the face of rising threats.
Our hearts go out to all of the families impacted by this senseless act of violence.
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The ERA Coalition is a movement of movements, comprising over 300 partner organizations nationwide, and representing 80 million individuals. We advocate for transformative change and spearhead both community and political movements aimed at securing Constitutional recognition. We increase public understanding of the need for codifying the equal treatment of people on the basis of sex in the Constitution, and the need to end sex inequality in all its forms. This is what unites us all.