People for the American Way: Advocacy, Mission, and Political Influence

Founding and Core Mission

People for the American Way (PFAW) is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of American citizens in terms of political democracy and economic freedom. Founded in 1981 by Norman Lear, alongside Congresswoman Barbara Jordan and other business, civil rights, religious, and civic leaders, PFAW emerged in response to what Lear characterized as divisive rhetoric from televangelists whom he believed were dividing Americans on numerous issues.

The organization's vision statement articulates a commitment to promoting a vibrant, diverse democratic society in which every American is considered an equal partner. PFAW's central aim is to ensure equality in law, opportunities, and participation in national issues. According to the organization, its vision encompasses ensuring that America respects diversity, nurtures and promotes creativity, and combats hatred and narrow-mindedness.

PFAW's stated mission is to "promote the American way" by fulfilling the promises that underpin American democracy. These promises include equality, freedom of speech, religious freedom, the right to justice, and the right to vote. The organization asserts that these constitute the American way and should not be taken from Americans. Beyond these foundational principles, PFAW has passionately advocated on judicial nominations, the separation of church and state, school class size, voting rights for Washington, D.C. in U.S. Congress, and rights for the lesbian and gay population.

According to PFAW, its operational mission is to ensure that the American Way is protected, defend the state from attack, and build and nurture communities through shared values. The organization contends that through these efforts, people in these communities will become equipped and inspired to support progressive policies and accountable leaders. PFAW believes that respecting constitutional principles will cultivate a new generation of leaders and activists committed to maintaining these values for American prosperity.

Organizational Structure and Leadership

PFAW maintains its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The organization's Board of Directors includes Chair Lara Bergthold and founding Chair Norman Lear, along with numerous civic, political, religious, and entertainment personalities. Notable board members have included Seth MacFarlane, Michael Keegan, David Altschul, Hon Mary Frances Berry, Rev Timothy McDonald, and Dr. Arthur J. Bellinzoni.

PFAW operates through an affiliate foundation known as the People for the American Way Foundation, which focuses on voter education and advocacy for progressive politics. The foundation manages several key infrastructure programs designed to develop progressive leadership and activism. The Young People For (YP4) program aims to identify, nurture, train, and support future progressive leaders. The Young Elected Officials Network brings together young elected leaders under the age of thirty-five from around the country and nurtures them to become progressive leaders. The African American Religious Affairs program promotes liberal activism and supports African American religious congregations and their communities.

The PFAW Foundation's board has included actress Kathleen Turner and Joshua Sapan, along with Joana Harris and Nate Westheimer, representing a blend of entertainment, business, and political leadership.

Political Activism and Advocacy Campaigns

PFAW is widely characterized as a left-wing activist organization due to its sustained focus on particular policy issues. Since its inception, the group has concentrated on opposing what it terms the "religious right" and right-wing activism that it considers antithetical to fundamental American freedoms. The organization has conducted numerous campaigns with mixed success.

One notable unsuccessful campaign occurred during the Reagan administration, when PFAW opposed the selection of federal judges through advertising campaigns. The organization argued that such appointments represented an overreach by the "far-right" government. However, this campaign failed because the President possessed constitutional authority to appoint judges. Conversely, PFAW has claimed successes in advocating for the legalization of lesbian and gay marriage in some states. These varied outcomes demonstrate both the organization's commitment to its policy agenda and the realistic constraints on advocacy group influence.