GPI launches new advocacy coalition to advance embryonic stem cell research in U.S.

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Nov 12 2010

The Genetics Policy Institute (GPI) today announced the launch of a new advocacy coalition of 30 organizations to foster public awareness and advance the cause of embryonic stem cell research in the United States.

“In light of the recent and ongoing court challenge in the case of Sherley v. Sebelius and the election of politicians vowing to eliminate funding or ban embryonic stem cell research, the large grassroots majority of Americans who support stem cells can no longer remain silent”

The Stem Cell Action campaign will unify stem cell advocates in 50 states in a campaign directed at educating their fellow citizens on the promise of embryonic stem cell research to alleviate human suffering from chronic medical conditions.

"In light of the recent and ongoing court challenge in the case of Sherley v. Sebelius and the election of politicians vowing to eliminate funding or ban embryonic stem cell research, the large grassroots majority of Americans who support stem cells can no longer remain silent," said Bernard Siegel, executive director of GPI.

"It is high time for this issue to be treated as a national priority. We are well aware that foes of stem cell research will do absolutely everything in their power in court and through legislation to cripple stem cell research. The Stem Cell Action coalition will challenge them at every level. We will not let them crush hope," Siegel said.

As its first action, the group has launched a public awareness web site at www.stemcellaction.org. The site calls upon the public to contact public officials to support legislation to protect and fund federal research. The site will be expanded to confront the problems raised by the Dickey -Wicker Amendment (a federal law that restricts funding for derivations of cell lines) and forthcoming battles in statehouses around the country.

The initial members of the coalition include the following organizations:

Act to Cure

Addi & Cassi Fund

The Adam Susser Foundation

Alliance for Aging Research

Alpha -1 Foundation

ALS Worldwide

Americans for Cures Foundation

The Baby Alex Foundation

Brooke Ellison Project

California Hepatitis C Task Force

Californians for Cures