Newton for Everyone resolves the misuse of our name

Newton for Everyone is happy to announce that we have resolved the matter concerning the misuse of our name by a political action committee. As part of the settlement, the PAC acknowledged our rights to our name and agreed to discontinue their use of the name "Newton for Everyone PAC." 

Below is a joint statement from Newton for Everyone and the PAC that we agreed upon as part of the settlement.

We are glad to put this matter behind us and look forward to continuing our work advocating for more affordable and varied housing options in Newton.

Joint Statement:

Newton for Everyone, founded in August 2023 to promote housing opportunities for people of all ages, means, backgrounds and abilities in Newton, has reached a settlement with the Newton for Everyone PAC, a group formed in limited opposition to the City’s 2023 zoning reform proposal that began using the same name, “Newton for Everyone,” in October 2023.

As part of this agreement, the PAC will permanently discontinue all use of the name, Newton for Everyone Political Action Committee. The parties agree that the PAC’s adoption of the name, despite its prior use by the housing advocacy organization, created confusion among Newton residents that was harmful to public discourse. The PAC apologizes for causing this confusion. In turn, Newton for Everyone, Inc has agreed to end its infringement lawsuit.

Earlier this year, the PAC filed counterclaims against Newton for Everyone. The court determined that those counterclaims lacked merit and dismissed them. It also found that one of the PAC’s counterclaims targeted Newton for Everyone’s constitutional right to petition and ordered the PAC to reimburse Newton for Everyone’s legal fees. The parties have now resolved all remaining disputes.

Both organizations agree that constructive civic debate benefits the community. Ensuring clarity and reducing public confusion will help residents participate fully and meaningfully in discussions about Newton’s future.