By David Binoya

Decrying hypocrisy

Gov. Pete Wilson's fourth annual Conference For Women took place Tuesday at the Long Beach Convention Center as 200 affirmative-action protesters rallied outside.

Decrying the hypocrisy of the governor's stance on affirmative action were members of the National Organization for Women, the People's Coalition for Affirmative Action, the American Association of University Women and Cal State Long Beach's Women's Studies Association.

"Our jobs are on the line and our families' futures are at stake," said Patricia Ireland, president of NOW. "Family incomes depend on as many adults working in the house as possible.

"There is an urgency of the next 51 weeks before the elections. It's a yearlong countdown and there is a need for the women to stand together for affirmative action."

Lilian Garland, who initiated a maternity-leave lawsuit that ended in a 1993 Supreme Court victory, attended the protest. She said she supported conference opposition and stood firm for affirmative action.

Garland is presently the co-chairwoman of the People's Coalition for Affirmative Action and said that the survival of affirmative action also will be another fight.

Nancy Sigala, 23, a member of the Cal State Long Beach Womens' Studies Student Association participated in the protest. The organization held pickets in opposition to Wilson. "Hate policies must be stopped," she said.

"It was a good kick-off and we will build on the momentum and strength" Ireland said. "I think we will have some victory but it's an uphill battle."