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 Aids the Enemy says Ashcroft ACLU Replies: Only Debate Strengthens U.S. Government Ashcroft Must Learn from the History of American Dissent |
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Statement of Laura W. Murphy Director, ACLU Washington National Office
While we feel as strongly as the rest of America that those who perpetrated the monstrous acts of September 11 must be brought to justice and our future safety ensured, we forcefully disagree with the Attorney General that domestic debate about the government response in any way harms the investigation. In fact, we believe debate only strengthens our government in this time of national crisis. The Attorney General swore an oath to guard the Bill of Rights and the Constitution, including the First Amendment. For him to openly attack as "aiding the enemy" those who question government policy is all the more frightening in light of his constitutional duty to protect each and every American's right to speak and think their mind.
Ashcroft should welcome a free and robust debate about the appropriateness and legality of his positions as a means of legitimizing his authority, not weakening it. American history demonstrates clearly that the search for truth tends to become muddied in times of crisis. Since the turn of the last century, America has seen each of its military conflicts prod the government into taking steps to stifle domestic dissent. Ashcroft's statement suggests that, if we are not careful, the tragedy of September 11 might be compounded by a repeat of this history. While we firmly support the Administration in its efforts to prevent another September 11, we cannot abide - nor can the American commitment to liberty and democracy support - any attempt by the Administration to dictate or coerce the thoughts we think or the opinions we hold. Thinking critically about government policy is the strongest shield against government excess. We will continue to voice our disagreement when we feel the government has stepped out of bounds and will do so with the conviction that one of the highest forms of patriotism is devotion to the Constitution and the freedoms guaranteed within, including the right to speak out in disagreement with the powers that be. |
