UUNEWS
political action

Civil liberties reexamined in 2005 Congress

By Rob Keithan

Civil liberties issues will again be central to legislative debate as the new Congress responds to the 9/11 Commission report and considers those provisions of the USA patriot Act that are set to expire December 31, 2005.

What you can do

• Urge your members of Congress to support legislation that restores and protects civil liberties, including privacy protections and due process. The Safety and Freedom Ensured Act ( safe ) and Civil Liberties Restoration Act are bills from the last Congress that are likely to be reintroduced in similar form. How-to resources on advocacy, as well as current information on the issues, are available on the Washington Office Web site.
• Form partnerships with other religious and secular groups in your area working on civil liberties--in particular with Muslim and immigrant groups. Being able to talk authentically about how policies affect constituents is one of the most effective forms of advocacy. The Bill of Rights Defense Committee, www.bordc.org, has excellent resources on getting involved in your community.

Are you someone with expertise on civil liberties issues, or do you know a UU who is? The Washington Office is building a civil liberties network. If you are interested in being a contact for your congregation, have stories or actions to share, or have specific skills or analyses to offer, contact Megan Joiner at mjoiner@uua.org, or (202) 296-4672 x12.

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Sign up for regular e-mail action alerts to learn about the UUA's advocacy efforts. Visit www.uua.org/uuawo for more information.

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