TOPIC: ARE WE FIGHTING TERRORISM AT THE EXPENSE OF OUR CIVIL LIBERTIES? THE PASSAGE OF THE USA PATRIOT ACT HAS TAKEN US IN THIS DIRECTION
Come and learn how this new law may affect your life and learn about the proposed “Domestic Security Enhancement Act” (AKA Patriot II). Find out what each of us can do to protect our constitutional rights, at a forum sponsored by the Social Action Committee of the UUCFM on Sunday, May 4th, 2003.
To quote first amendment scholar Charles C. Haynes, “Since the fight against terrorism appears unending, new powers granted to the government today may become permanent tomorrow. History teaches that once given, sweeping powers of search and surveillance will be difficult to take back, and once employed to combat an immediate threat, such powers may be subsequently used in unanticipated ways to suppress legitimate dissent.”. Already signs are being posted in public libraries around the country warning patrons that a record of the books you borrow may end up in the hands of the FBI and librarians are prohibited by law from telling you about it.
Speakers are: Howard Simon, Executive Director, ACLU of Florida
And Samar Jarrah, Instructor in International Relations at
University of South Florida, Tampa, and former news
editor/reporter for Jordan Television and CNN World Report.
There will be a complete copy of the proposed “Domestic Security Enhancement Act” available for review and other written materials and resources to help you learn more and to take action if you wish..
The Forum begins at 12:45 p.m. in Hobart Hall following a sandwich lunch ($5) served at 12 noon. The lunch requires prior sign-up (deadline May2nd) with payment at door. THERE IS NO CHARGE OR PRIOR RESERVATION REQUIRED FOR THE FORUM AND ALL ARE WELCOME!
Questions: Call Phyllis Brewer at 489-0889 or the church office at 561-2700
