Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1311385
10 PalletCentral • November-December 2020 palletcentral.com POLICY PLAY AT A my Coney Barrett was recently confirmed as a Supreme Court Justice. A historic moment, I watched the vote as it occurred, having a personal interest in her appointment. As a University of Notre Dame alumnus myself, I was proud to see a fellow graduate of the University attain a position in the highest court in the land. The United States Senate confirmed her appointment on a 52-48 vote, and she was sworn in on October 26, 2020. Justice Barrett's faith, which has been both scrutinized and applauded during her confirmation process, brings the number of Catholic justices on the Supreme Court to six. So, why do I raise this in a "The State of Advocacy" piece? Irish Catholics found themselves persecuted when they came to this country. They learned that they needed to know the law, and better yet, be the law. Thus, you not only had Irish Americans in law enforcement, but also in the broader judicial system. So, it's no surprise to see so many Catholics in the Supreme Court. Likewise, small businesses know that they need to advocate for their position at all levels of government. It makes sense that there are thousands of associations representing small businesses at the federal and state level. NWPCA is one of those associations and is the sole voice and representative of wood pallets and containers in Washington, DC. This fortress and its foundation is strong. Last month, I noted that this industry has been proactive in its government affairs advocacy. To date, we've raised over $35,000 this year for the NWPCA "PalletPAC," with several members personally donating the maximum of $5,000 in a calendar year. (Federal Election Commission does not allow corporate contributions into the NWPCA PAC). The NWPCA has contributed to 14 members of Congress, both in the House and Senate. Members on the Agriculture Committee, The Pallet Advocacy Fortress, a Solid Foundation The political and business landscape of the next four years is bound to keep you on your toes. By Patrick Atagi ©JulianVelasco/wikimedia Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and NWPCA's Patrick Atagi. Judge Amy Coney Barrett at her Investiture Ceremony, February 2018.