FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 3, 2009

CONTACT:
Brandon Hensler, Director of Communications, (786) 363-2737 or media@aclufl.org

ORLANDO, Fla. – The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida announces the reformation of its Central Chapter, covering the Greater Orlando area including Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Lake Counties. The Chapter will support the state and national agendas of protecting individual rights and personal freedoms through education, legislation and litigation.

Under the guidance of ACLU of Florida Central Region Director Joyce Hamilton-Henry, a new interim board was established by the ACLU of Florida State Board for the volunteer-run chapter, selecting individuals with proven leadership experience, credibility within the Central Florida community, and passion to support the mission and goals of the ACLU of Florida. The board reflects Central Florida’s diversity in many ways, including representation from law, government, industry, and community organizations.

“It is so wonderful to see a group of dedicated individuals step up to lead the Chapter forward and work closely with ACLU of Florida staff to advance civil liberties in the Greater Orlando region,” said Hamilton-Henry. “We are confident that this is the beginning of a solid working relationship for years to come.”

The interim Executive Chapter board is led by Heather Gupte, President; Susan Clary, Vice President; Dwight Slater, Treasurer; and Felix Felicier, Secretary. “We have a focused plan intended to create a sustainable and impactful ACLU of Florida Chapter in Central Florida. There are several opportunities for current and prospective ACLU of Florida members to get actively involved in this time of increasing challenges to civil liberties,” said Gupte.

The chapter conducts its monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. Information on location and time, as well as a full listing of the interim board and all the available activities can be found at www.aclufl.org.

Kicking off a line-up of exciting activities, the ACLU of Florida’s Central Chapter invites the public to attend a Constitution Day Celebration on September 12th at the Orlando Museum of Art at 6 p.m. This black-tie event will feature cocktails, live music, and a silent auction in support of the ACLU of Florida and preservation of the individual rights outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Further details are available at www.aclufl.org or by calling 407-340-3550.

About the ACLU of Florida
The ACLU of Florida is freedom's watchdog, working daily in the courts, legislatures and communities to defend individual rights and personal freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. For additional information, visit our web site at: www.aclufl.org.

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2009 Press Releases