Washington, DC – Congressman Joe Baca (D-Rialto) has received an "A" grade from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in its recently released evaluation of Congress.  The NAACP, the nation's oldest and most widely recognized grassroots civil rights organization, compiled a legislative scorecard evaluating Senators and Representatives on issues relating to civil rights. 

Based on his votes on priority issues identified by the NAACP, Rep. Baca received an A grade, reflecting his ongoing commitment to securing basic civil rights and providing a better quality of life for all Americans.  “I take pride in representing California’s 43^rd District.  Our district is increasingly diverse and includes a sizable African-American and Hispanic population.  Minorities play an active and important role in our community and enrich our district with a strong work ethic and family values,” said Rep. Baca.  “I appreciate being recognized by the NAACP for my work to advance equal rights for all Americans.”

The NAACP report card is based on votes taken on key civil rights issues in the 109^th Congress (2005-2006), and included such important measures as the reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act and increased funding for education, health care, and community development programs.  Rep. Baca consistently voted in favor of increasing equality and opportunities for all Americans.

“I will continue to address the issues that are important to our families in the Inland Empire, throughout California and all across our great nation – improving education to open the doors of opportunity, providing access to affordable health care, and giving all families the tools they need to succeed,” said Rep. Baca.

Rep. Baca currently serves as the Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, as well as Chair of the Caucus' Corporate America, Technology, Communications, and the Arts Task Force, which aims to increase minority representation in corporate America and make sure that businesses support minority organizations and causes.  Rep. Baca also chairs the Agriculture Subcommittee which has jurisdiction over important social issues related to nutrition and serves as Co-Chair of the Congressional Out of Poverty Caucus, along with Reps. Barbara Lee, John Conyers, and Mike Honda. 

Founded in 1910, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest civil rights organization.  Its thousands of members are united by one overarching message – that all men and women are created equal.  The NAACP report card for the 109^th Congress can be viewed online at: http://www.naacp.org/programs/bureau-dc/109th_final_report_card3.pdf.