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ACLU Launches National Ad Campaign on Treatment Of Immigrants in
Wake of 9-11
May 7, 2002
MIAMI ? In response to government actions following last year's terrorist attacks, the ACLU has launched a new national public service announcement (PSA) campaign to raise awareness about the deeply troubling treatment of immigrants in the wake of September 11.
The new advertising campaign, which targets print and broadcast media outlets, includes two public service announcements: one with a voice-over by film star Danny Glover and another with voices of actual immigrants being held in detention. The 30- and 60-second video spots ? with images of immigrants arriving to the United States by boat ? remind viewers about the need to enhance security without eroding "the liberties our country was built on."
"Our PSA advertising campaign focuses public attention on how the government's response to the tragedy of 9-11 not only threatens civil liberties, but is in danger of morphing into a war on our immigrant communities," said Howard Simon, Executive Director of the ACLU of Florida.
More than 1500 copies of the PSAs have been distributed to network and cable access stations across the country.
"While the ACLU recognizes the urgent need to reduce the risk of new terrorist attacks, we urge our government to act with deep respect for the constitutional values of our democratic nation," said National ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero. "Our PSA reminds viewers that even in the most difficult times, we must stay true to what we are ? a nation of people who cherish liberty."
The ACLU has been involved in responding to Congressional and Administrative actions following last year's terrorist attack. Earlier this year, the non-partisan civil liberties group filed the first post-September 11 challenge to closed deportation proceedings. The organization also filed a federal lawsuit against the government for its failure to disclose information about immigration detainees being held in New Jersey jails.
To view or obtain copies of the public service announcements, call (305) 576-2337 ext. 16.
Media Contact:
Alessandra Soler Meetze, ACLU-FL, Communications Director,
(305) 576-2337, ext. 16 (office) or (305) 773-8220 (cellular)
