“When I came to this country, I had this idea of freedom that America represented. But when RIGHTS the Patriot Act passed both houses in Congress within 24 hours, I felt anxiety and fear.” – Ismael Basha REVIEW Get the whole story on page 2 WINTER 2010

It’s not a An American Fired for crime to be Journey: A rich history being 2 homeless. 3 4 Celebrating of grassroots pregnant? activism Defending 50 Years of the Not any ACLU in in more. liberty for Michigan years to come 6 7 SCHOOL MUST ALLOW SERVICE DOG ACLU BLOG ROLL TO ACCOMPANY KINDERGARTNER WITH CEREBRAL PALSY If you haven’t already, it’s time to check out the ACLU of Michigan’s Ehlena Fry is a bright kindergartner at Ezra Eby Elementary blog and learn more about how we School in Napoleon. Because of her spastic quadriplegic cerebral are protecting your rights. Go to palsy, a severe form of cerebral palsy that affects her legs, arms www.aclumich.org/blog and hear from and body, Ehlena needs assistance with many of her daily tasks. our staff, clients and cooperating at- In October 2009, Ehlena found the answer to her indepen- torneys on the issues that affect you. dence in Wonder, a specially trained, certified mobility assis- Here’s a sample of what you’ve missed. tance dog, who can help her retrieve items she drops, balance, open and close doors, and turn on lights. However, after spend- ing the time and money training Wonder, her school rejected her After a judge affirmed the right parent’s request to have Wonder accompany her to class. of the First Baptist Church in After seeing media reports about Ehlena, the American Civil Ferndale to house the South Liberties Union of Michigan got involved and wrote a letter to the Napoleon Community Schools urging them to respect her right Oakland Shelter, Rev. Cathi Feldpausch to bring her doctor-prescribed service dog to school. In its letter, wrote: “So often the ACLU comes under the ACLU warned that the district’s actions violate the Americans fire, but I for one want to say how much with Disabilities Act. It’s not clear whether the district will change we have appreciated their support. It its position, but the ACLU is ready to take action if it doesn’t. has been wonderful to feel as though According to the ACLU’s letter, prior to registering Ehlena someone really understands that this for school, the Frys advised the school of their decision to pur- is what the church universal is called chase a service dog. At no point did the school district suggest that Wonder would not be allowed. Nonetheless, in January, the to do – feed the hungry and cloth the district rejected the Frys’ request to bring Wonder to school in a der’s training and bonding.” naked – and then is willing to stand with specially convened Individualized Education Plan meeting. In its 4-page letter, the ACLU explained that the Americans with Dis- the church to see that justice is done. “Denying Ehlena the right to have her service dog affects abilities Act provides that public institutions, such as schools, must make What a Christmas gift this has been for our whole family and the community that helped us raise the reasonable modifications to their policies and practices to avoid discrimi- me and for our church.” money for Wonder,” said Stacy Fry, Ehlena’s mother. “In the nation on the basis of disability including allowing the use of a service short time that we have had Wonder we have seen her grow animals on school property. Following oral arguments in our more self-reliant. The smile on her face when she is able to do Since October, Wonder has been accompanying Ehlena to Sunday things on her own without my help is priceless and the more school, Girls Scout Daisy meetings, and other school and community case defending affirmative -ac she is able to work with Wonder and command him, the more functions without complaint and without distracting other participants. tion, legal fellow Avani Bhatt confident and independent she becomes. Separating them con- Wonder is hypo-allergenic and has been trained to get out of the way reflected: “I was – like many other Michi- sistently for several hours a day could prove disastrous for Won- when he is not working. gan graduates – incredibly disappointed when Michigan voters passed Prop 2, amending our state constitution to ban affirmative action. The vote against af- Shortly before 2 a.m., a team of officers pen again,” said Jennifer Thompson. “We’ve firmative action signified a vote against SETTLEMENT REACHED IN from the Flint Area Narcotics Group stormed been waiting for this moment for a long time opportunity and a fundamental mis- UNCONSTITUTIONAL STRIP the licensed nightclub and detained, strip and my only wish today is that the lessons understanding of how affirmative -ac searched, and, in some cases, body cavity learned here will go beyond the City of Flint.” searched and charged everyone in the club During the raid, the dance club pa- tion works. More importantly though, it AND CAVITY SEARCH with the crime of “frequenting a drug house” trons were handcuffed and divided into two amended our state constitution to dis- simply because they were present at the groups, females and males. Women were tak- criminate against people of color. That Agreement Includes New club. The raid was conducted after undercov- en into a bathroom and searched by police is why we sued.” Policies, Police Training and er officers bought drugs from a few individu- officers, at times in the presence of others. $900,000 Payment als at the club; however the vast majority of Some were told to lift their shirts and bras in In reaction to the Lansing may- the club patrons were not involved in any il- view of male officers. An officer commented legal activity. to one woman about the size of her breasts or’s announcement to ask for When 117 young men and women The American Civil Liberties Union of and asked if they were “real.” an investigation into the release walked into Club What’s Next in Flint on Michigan came to the defense of the young Most of the men were taken into a men’s a Spring night in 2005, they had no idea of the HIV status of a man arrested in men and women, and in December, a settle- bathroom and told to raise their shirts, drop that their lives would be forever changed. a sex-sting operation, Jay Kaplan, ACLU ment was reached in the their pants and underwear, and to bend over of Michigan LGBT Project staff attorney ACLU’s class action lawsuit and cough. Some were told to put a finger wrote: “Lansing’s decision to deploy un- against the City of Flint and into their anus. Those who were still hand- dercover police officers pretending to Genesee County. Under the cuffed had their pants and underwear pulled be in an effort to encourage men agreement, the police depart- down to around their knees by police offi- ment has agreed to institute cers. One man was stripped on the side of to engage in illegal behavior in the park new policies and training the road after he had left the club. should raise some eyebrows as well. The to prevent unconstitutional “This has been a long journey for the fact is that indecent exposure and sex searches and arrests from innocent young people who have dealt with in public are illegal. However, there are happening again. Flint and the emotional and physical toll of being strip more effective ways for police to deal Genesee County also agreed searched and cavity searched by the very with this problem if, in fact, it does ex- to pay the victims of the un- individuals who have taken an oath to serve ist. Police departments can deploy uni- constitutional searches and and protect them,” said Michael L. Pitt, ACLU arrests a total of $900,000. of Michigan cooperating attorney whose law formed officers to patrol the parks and Thompson was strip firm Pitt McGehee Palmer Rivers & Golden post signs indicating that parks are be- searched, cavity searched, led the effort on behalf of the ACLU. “We ing patrolled to deter individuals from and unlawfully arrested. “I are confident that this settlement will send engaging in these activities.” became a part of this lawsuit a strong message to all law enforcement in not only to have my voice Michigan – police abuse comes at a cost; it is heard, but also to help make illegal and must not be tolerated.” sure that this doesn’t hap- VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ACLUMICH.ORG 1 ACLU as well as various national and local organizations, is the former chairman of the American Muslim Council; he BASHA BROTHERS FIGHT FOR Yahya and Ismael have dedicated themselves to fighting went to Europe in 2007 as a “citizen diplomat” for the U.S. discrimination of Muslims and Arab-Americans while pro- State Department to discuss and debate immigration and in- LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL moting the causes of dignity and equality of all people. tegration and to provide a bridge between the Muslim world “To take democracy for granted is very, very danger- and the . Yahya also sits on the boards of the ACLU founder Roger Baldwin once said, “No fight for ous,” said Ismael. “I value my liberty and want to extend my Arab American Institute, American Arab Anti-Discrimination liberty ever stays won.” Dr. Yahya Basha and his brother Is- liberties to others.” Committee and Arab American Chamber of Commerce. Is- mael Basha understand this principle all too well. The broth- As a way to combat these injustices, the brothers en- mael is an active board member of the Muslim Unity Center. ers became supporters of the ACLU of Michigan following courage Arab Americans and Muslims to get more involved For more information on how to get involved with the the tragic events of 9/1 1 because they understood the im- with the ACLU of Michigan. ACLU, or to make a contribution, please contact Mia Axon at portant role the ACLU plays in protecting democracy during “ACLU was one of the few organizations that stood (313) 578-6815 or [email protected]. challenging times. up during a time when others were silent,” Yahya added. “ACLU is the guard for American values, ensuring our “There is no clash between religious beliefs and ACLU’s liberties and protecting all people,” said Yahya. “No other stance because the ACLU pro- organization does this as well as the ACLU.” tects an individual’s right to Yahya and Ismael were born in Hama, Syria in a family live the life that is suitable to of eleven children. In 1972, Yahya was the first member of them. Those who can partici- his family to immigrate to the United States. He arrived with pate, should participate.” an M.D. from the University of Damascus Medical School, A respected expert and and in the U.S. his medical and business careers flourished. advisor for the Muslim com- He is president of Basha Diagnostics, a multi-site diagnostic munity, Yahya has been a imaging company in Southeastern Michigan. Yahya helped board member, advisor, con- several of his siblings immigrate to the U.S., including his tributor and representative of brother Ismael, who came in 1983. Ismael is the founder and numerous cultural, religious, owner of TSS Inc., which manufactures car wash fixtures. professional and political or- “I know how it feels to be living in tyranny stripped ganizations. He was appointed from basic rights as a human being,” Ismael explained. “De- by Governor John Engler to mocracy, human rights, and equality are humanity’s great- the 1999-2003 Michigan Civil est achievements and ought to be guarded by all of us and Rights Commission. He was shouldn’t be taken for granted. When I came to this country, named to the Council of Presi- I had this idea of freedom that America represented. But dents for the United States when the Patriot Act passed both houses in Congress within Conference of Religions for 24 hours, I felt anxiety and fear.” Peace and board member of It is this passion for fairness and human rights that the World Elijah Interfaith make the Bashas involvement in the ACLU vital. Yahya and Academy, based in Jerusalem. Ismael are not just mere supporters of the ACLU; they are Yahya is the founder of the goodwill ambassadors who sit on many boards and commit- Ismael (left) and Dr. Yahya Basha Muslim American Coalition and tees for the organization. Through their many roles in the

gal, outreach, and education programs and come Retirement Plan (IRA), Keogh plan, 401(k), 403(b), or WAYS TO GIVE: IT’S NOT TOO LATE with a charitable income tax deduction. other qualified pension plan. You may name ACLU as beneficiary for part or all of what remains in your re- TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Gifts of stocks and bonds can cost you less than an tirement account. equal gift of cash. When you give long-term appreci- For many people philanthropy has become the most ated securities, not only do you receive an income Life income gifts allow you to transfer assets over practical way to make long-term changes in America. The tax deduction equal to the market value of the secu- to the ACLU now and yet continue to receive the in- ACLU of Michigan – with its deserved reputation as the lead- rities, but you also avoid capital gains taxes on the come from the cash, stock, or other property con- ing civil rights organization in Michigan – is an incredible transfer. A gift of stock that you have owned for a tributed. resource that contributes significantly to our well-being as numbers of years can be particularly tax-wise. Americans. You personally make a difference, your support eBay contributions enable you to donate to the ACLU of ACLU is vital to the organization’s long-term stability. Matching gifts take advantage of programs offered by in two ways: by checking the box marked “this mon- Your memberships and contributions fund ACLU’s legal, many employers and can leverage your gift to a higher ey goes to ACLU-MI” or by using Pay Pal and direct- legislative and education programs. As you think about how level. ing either the full amount or a percentage of a sale ACLU fits into your 2010 plans, please consider the follow- to the ACLU of Michigan. ing gift vehicles: Through your Will, the ACLU can be listed as a direct beneficiary of specific assets, of a portion of your Thank you for your ongoing support. For more infor- Membership upgrades are a wonderful way to in- estate, or of your residual estate after payment of mation about making a planned gift or for questions about crease your support of the ACLU and fund our leg- other bequests. Bequests to ACLU can offer substan- making any type of contribution to the ACLU, please con- islative work. tial estate tax savings. tact Mia Axon, Director of Development, at (313) 578-6815 or [email protected]. ACLU Fund contributions above and beyond your Retirement plans are wonderful gift vehicles. You annual membership provide vital funding to our le- may name ACLU as a beneficiary of your Individual

We recognize the members of the DeSilver Society whose bequests and other planned gifts will keep the ACLU a strong and capable A LEGACY OF defender of liberty for years to come. For questions regarding planned gifts or the DeSilver Society please contact Mia Axon at 313.578.6815. Michael and Suzan Alexander Janet Cooper Elizabeth W. Kaufman Haskell Rothstein Paula Allred and Richard Mehl Candace Crowley Joanne Kelly Crossland Helen Rutledge LIBERTY C.R. Andree May and Morris Davidson William Kirby Elizabeth Schrauder Jean Andrews Gilbert and Patricia Davis Jeanne Korsh Paul Sears Robert Andrews William and Kathleen Davis Gary Kuehnle Claudia and Martin Seldon Peter and Glenna Armstrong Julie Dean Smith and Robbie Ashlyn Kuersten Florence Shaber Lyndon and Betty Babcock Wingett Norris and Nancy Lee Robert Shecter June Baker Carr Joachim Doehler Micki Levin and John Grenke Eileen and Martin Shedleski Judith Baran Judith Donnelly and Mehmet Tulu Leon Levitt Dorothy Sheets Victoria Barclay Moira Donnelly Steven Lukacs Maggie and Paul Simon Sandra Bartky John and Carol Ducat Carolyn MacAdam Coral Sist Algird Barvicks William Easton Raymond Makowski Carol Slater Daniel Baumhardt Elaine Ethridge Dolores Mazurek Donald Smith William Beachler Kurt Falk Trisha Mead Sheldon and Rita Stark Penny Beardslee Marcia and Gene Feingold Helen Metzner Bruce and Christy Chuang Stein Walter Bergman Alice Felton Michael Miller Daniel and Elayne Steinhardt Sidney and Kathleen Berkowitz Gunther Fonken and Anges David Moran and Kris Olsson Martha Tholman Hughes Norman and Nancy Berkowitz Elizabeth and William Norris George Thornton, Esq. Harold Ford Edna Bick and John Helsom Horatio Parmalee Donald Thurber Helen Francis Ron Bishop Lucile Patrick Susan Titus Dion and Marissa Frischer Art and Betty Blair Russell and Carrie Peebles David Uozumi John Fritz Jeffrey Bloomer Laura Perreault Edgar Vaughan Beverley and Gerson Geltner Ron Blum A. Scott Petersen Jacquelin Washington Carol Glass Paul Boatin Bob Pettapiece Sanford Waxer Martin Gold John Boaz Edith Phillips Aron Weiner Salvador Gonzales Henry and Barbara Bodzin Irene Piccone Elizabeth Wentworth Priscilla Greenberg William Booker Mardy Polaner Susan Whittenmore Audrey and Leonard Grossman Gary Bouwkamp and Mary Pollock Michael and Gail Whitty Christopher Hamilton Dorothy Sheets Nelson Prins Thomas Wieder and Susan James Hansen Paul Breyer Jeanne Raisler Schooner Marilee and James Harrison William Byrnes Mary Rave Kenneth Winter Bill Hayden Jay Carr William Rittenberg Diane Worden J. Theodore Hefley Gerald Carter James Rodbard and Mary Root Joanne Wright Jean Holtzman Norma and Rexford Clark William Root Carole Youngblood and Amos Mary Hurd Williams Thomas Clinton Judith Rose Leslie Johnston Linda Ziesmer Angelos and Katherine Frank Ross Constantinides John Joseph Marjory Cooper Rosa Kaplan 2 VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ACLUMICH.ORG Appeals Court Throws Out Artist’s tion, Michigan law still required him to register as a sex offender which interfered with his ability to get a job. The IN THE COURTS Conviction for Michelangelo Mural ACLU filed an amicus curiae brief in the Michigan Court of Appeals arguing that placing Robert on the sex offender In this summary of legal updates and highlights, registry under the circumstances was cruel and unusual you will see a mix of clients — ranging from a punishment. In November, the appeals court issued a groundbreaking decision agreeing with the ACLU. People church that seeks to serve the poor to prison- v. DiPiazza; Cooperating Attorney Christine Pagac. ers in the Saginaw and Eaton County Jails. Despite their differences, all of our clients have Denial of Medical Treatment In The two things in common: (1) they are victims of Eaton County Jail government overreach, and (2) the ACLU has David Bogle, who has Crohn’s Disease, was convicted of a misdemeanor and sentenced to the Eaton County Jail. stepped forward to vindicate their rights. Although he brought his doctor’s notes about the need for narcotic prescriptions to treat the excruciating pain caused by the disease, the jail told him it had an absolute no-narcotic prescription drug policy. The jail also records Naked Detention In The Saginaw confidential phone calls between him and his attorney. In November, the ACLU filed a lawsuit challenging both poli- County Jail cies. Bogle v. Raines; Cooperating Attorneys Daniel Man- Multiple lawsuits challenging a Saginaw County Jail policy ville and Patricia Selby. of stripping inmates and placing them in a cell naked were Edward Stross is a Roseville artist who painted a mural on the resolved in September. Altogether, the county paid more outside wall of his studio that included a depiction of Michel- Wal-Mart Can’t Automatically Disqualify than $1.5 million in verdicts, settlements and fees for cal- angelo’s “Creation of Man” from the Sistine Chapel. Because lously disregarding the basic human dignity of individuals one of Eve’s bare breasts appeared in the mural, the City of Job Applicants with Criminal Records awaiting trial. From 1999 until a judge ordered Saginaw Roseville charged and convicted Stross of violating a vari- The Michigan and National ACLU warned Wal-Mart in a let- County to stop in 2005, jail personnel forced detainees ance provision that prohibited “genitalia.” After a judge sen- ter that a blanket ban on hiring ex-offenders is illegal. The to remove their clothes and enter a cell called “the hole” tenced Edward to 30 days in jail, the ACLU appealed on free ACLU sent the letter in December after receiving a complaint where they could be viewed naked by jail personnel and in- speech grounds and secured his release during the appeal. In about Wal-Mart’s hiring policy at the new Pittsfield Town- mates of the opposite sex. If the prisoner declined to strip November, following appeals to the Michigan Supreme Court ship store. on her or his own, guards forcibly removed the clothing, and back, the Michigan Court of Appeals finally threw out Blanket bans often by spraying chemicals in their faces, forcing them on Edward’s conviction for the simple reason that breasts don’t on hiring ex- the ground and cutting off their clothing. Rose v. Saginaw meet the definition of “genitalia.” City of Roseville v. Stross; offenders — no County Jail, Brabant v. Saginaw County Jail, Whittum v. Cooperating Attorneys Mark Kriger and Carl Marlinga. matter how Saginaw County Jail, and Abner v. Saginaw County Jail; At- old or how torneys Michael Pitt, Peggy Goldberg Pitt, Stephen Wasing- Illegal Home Entries And unrelated the er, Christopher Pianto and conviction is to Loyst Fletcher, Jr. Searches In Leelanau County the job sought In October, the ACLU sent a letter to the — violates fed- Ferndale Church Leelanau County Sheriff demanding that eral employ- he put an end to the practice of police offi- ment law be- Has Right To Help cers entering homes without warrants and cause of its impact on racial minorities. Wal-Mart asked for Poor People forcing college-age students to submit to a meeting with the ACLU and suggested it would review its breathalyzer tests. We wrote the letter in policy. ACLU Staff Attorney Jessie Rossman. The ACLU successfully rep- response to several complaints about po- resented the First Baptist lice abuse, including one instance where the Church of Ferndale in its Mandatory Single-Sex Education In police barged into the bedroom of a young quest to fulfill its religious woman at 3:30 a.m., woke her up and made Algonac mission of serving the her take a breath test. Within a few weeks, After learning that fourth graders at Millside Elementary poor. Initially, we wrote a the Sheriff met with an ACLU lawyer, ack- School in Algonac were involuntarily separated into two letter to the Zoning Board owledged the problem, disciplined two of- single-gender classrooms, the ACLU of Michigan sent a of Appeals explaining that ficers and, at the ACLU’s request, held a letter warning that these sex-segregated classrooms are the board must permit the training for deputies about illegal searches. illegal, discriminatory and ineffective. Despite court rul- church to provide services Cooperating Attorney Steven Morse. ings to the contrary, the school district claimed that they to homeless at the church were not violating the law because parents who did not in order to avoid violating the federal Religious Land Use like single-sex education could move their kids into a dif- and Institutionalized Persons Act. After the permit was Terminally Ill Medical Marijuana Patient ferent school. We are exploring litigation options. ACLU granted and certain neighbors sued the zoning board, Fights Eviction Staff Attorney Jessie Rossman. the ACLU filed a friend-of-the-court brief on behalf of the church. In December, the court ruled in favor of the church. Lori Montroy is a 49-year-old Elk Rapids mother with ad- Ashmore v. City of Ferndale; Cooperating Attorney Marshall vanced terminal brain cancer. In order to treat the excruciat- Right To Appellate Counsel For The Poor Widick and Staff Attorney Dan Korobkin. ing pain, depression and nausea caused by the cancer, Lori’s doctor recommended medical marijuana as allowed by the In 2009, the Michigan Court of Appeals, relying on U.S. Su- Michigan Medical Marijuana Act. Based on this recommenda- preme Court precedent set by the Michigan ACLU, ordered Schools Sued Yet Again For Illegal tion, the State of Michigan issued her a medical marijuana a Saginaw County judge to appoint counsel to an individ- Mass Searches card, allowing her to grow a limited number of plants for per- ual who pleaded guilty so he could appeal his sentence. sonal use. However, when her public housing landlord learned Following the decision, the ACLU worked with Saginaw of the plants, he issued an eviction notice shortly before County to notify thousands of individuals that they were Christmas. The ACLU wrote a letter explaining that as long as wrongfully denied their constitutional right to counsel. As tenants like Lori comply with the state medical marijuana law, a result of this effort, more than a hundred will now re- public housing landlords are not required to evict. The land- ceive counsel to appeal their sentences. People v. Holden; lord is currently reconsidering the decision and Lori is still Cooperating Attorney Terence Flanagan. living in her apartment. ACLU Staff Attorney Dan Korobkin. Man Charged With Terrorism For Biting More Medical Marijuana Cases Neighbor Despite the passage of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act, police in some communities are seizing marijuana from indi- viduals with state-issued cards that give them permission to grow medical marijuana. Other cities are passing ordinances that conflict with the state law. The ACLU has already stepped In 2006, a federal judge issued an order barring Detroit in to prevent police abuse of patients and their caregivers in Public Schools from conducting mass searches of their some cases. In one instance, after the ACLU wrote a letter to students without reasonable suspicion. Despite this court the Wayne County Prosecutor’s office about the seizure of a order, we’ve learned that the school has resumed its illegal car from a medical marijuana patient, the car was returned. In searches. In December the ACLU filed both a motion to hold January, the ACLU filed a friend-of-the-court brief in a Mont- the Detroit Public Schools in contempt and a class action calm County case asking for the dismissal of criminal charges lawsuit to vindicate the students’ privacy rights. Wells and against two medical marijuana patients who were certified by McBurrows v. Detroit Public Schools; Cooperating Attorney their doctor as individuals who would benefit from the use of Amos Williams and Staff Attorneys Mark Fancher and Dan marijuana to treat their illnesses. People v. Patricia and David Korobkin. Rempp; Cooperating Attorneys Nadav Ariel and Shaun John- son and Staff Attorney Dan Korobkin. It’s Not A Crime To Be Homeless Caleb Poirier is a homeless man Young Man With No in Ann Arbor who lives on public Conviction Placed On Sex property near the highway with other homeless people. Caleb was Offender Registry Daniel Allen is accused of biting his neighbor during a arrested during a police sweep of When Robert Dipiazza was 18 years old, he physical altercation. In addition to being charged with as- the area and charged with tres- had consensual sex with his then-girlfriend sault and battery, the Macomb County Prosecutor charged passing. The ACLU filed a friend- (and now wife) Nanette Trowbridge, who him with terrorism because he is HIV-positive. The ACLU of-the-court brief arguing that was underage at the time. Although Na- is preparing a friend-of-the-court brief arguing that the it is unconstitutional to arrest nette’s parents supported their relation- charges are founded on baseless assumptions about how a person for sleeping on public ship, a teacher reported the relationship HIV is transmitted and that the Michigan terrorism statute land when there is no place else to police and Robert was charged with was not designed to punish this sort of behavior. People v. for him to sleep. Soon after the criminal sexual conduct. The judge put him Allen; Staff Attorney Jay Kaplan. brief was filed, the prosecutor in a diversionary program for youthful of- dismissed the criminal charges. fenders and after a successful probation- People v. Poirier; ACLU Staff At- ary period, Robert’s criminal charges were torney Jessie Rossman. dismissed. Although Robert had no convic-

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ACLUMICH.ORG 3 AN AMERICAN CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF THE ACLU OF MICHIGAN JOURNEY:

Ortheia Barnes-Kennerly sings Co-chairs Eric Jirgens (Right) and Rollo O’Hare with Arianna Huffington “America the Beautiful”

The 2009 Annual Dinner drew a sell-out crowd of more than 540 people to the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit on November 7, 2009, for a celebration of the 50th anni- versary of the ACLU of Michigan. Co-chaired by Eric Jirgens and Rollo O’Hare, the eve- ning was featured in Ambassador Magazine, Hour Detroit and the Detroit Legal News. They came to support the ACLU. They came to spend time with friends. They came to honor our founders. They came to be part of a magnificent history. And though it certainly was a gathering of old friends, a celebration of victories past, the evening also encompassed the new: first-time hosts and table sponsors; nov- ice volunteers; brand new members; an elegant though untried venue; and the first Twitter posting at an ACLU event. Yes, keynote speaker Arianna Huffington, co-founder and editor-in-chief of the Huffington Post, tweeted about the dinner in real time to avid followers. “The dinner is always a fun and inspiring way to get people engaged in the issues,” said Eric Jirgens, ACLU of Michigan Annual Dinner co-chair. “Although we took a look back at our history, the focus of the dinner was sustaining the work for the next 50 years. We have a great legacy that we must celebrate, but we also have a very impor- tant future. This future will be driven by an expanded statewide presence including an The Hon. Dennis Archer and Reginald Turner, Chair of the United Way for new office in Western Michigan and an increase of our dedicated members across the Southeastern Michigan state all while mentoring the next generation of civil libertarians.” Other highlights included a 50th anniversary video, popular Detroit vocalist Ort- heia Barnes-Kennerly singing “America the Beautiful,” the Maples Elementary School Drum Ensemble and Huffington’s remarks. Introduced by Ambassador Magazine Publisher Denise Ilitch, who described her as “the most upwardly mobile Greek since Icarus,” Huffington, a naturalized American

ACLU of Michigan Western Advisory Board Member Bette Sebastian poses with Arianna Huffington

University of Michigan Regent Libby Maynard (right) and Atty. S. Olof Karlstrom with Arianna Huffingto

Maples Elementary School Drum Ensemble usher guests into the ballroom

4 VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ACLUMICH.ORG CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF THE ACLU OF MICHIGAN

THANK YOU SPONSORS & HOSTS Constitution Champions Gil and Pat Davis Eric Jirgens and Allan Gilmour Leslie Desmond Eugene Driker VIP Reception Sponsor Dykema Gossett PLLC (Heidi Naasko) Denise Ilitch Henry Grix and Howard Israel Imad Hamad (ADC-Michigan) Media Sponsor Hammond & Associates Hour Detroit H. Lynn Jondahl & Judy Martin From left to right, Regent Denise Ilitch, Senator Carl Levin, Mark L. Kahn Arianna Huffington and ACLU of Michigan Executive Director Kary L. Moss Founders Tribute Table Sponsors Betsy & Joel Kellman Gary Boren Peter Kobrak Rick and Pat Drabant Deborah LaBelle James Hoogstra and Clark Heath Michigan CAP Department, UAW International citizen, spoke about the ACLU of Michigan’s 50-year fight for civil liberties protections Life for Relief and Development Micki Levin and John Grenke as an American journey. David Moran and Kris Olsson Sheldon & Mary Lois Levy “It’s not just the ACLU’s journey in Michigan, it’s part of the great journey of Amer- Michigan Department of Civil Rights Daniel Little, Chancellor, U-M Dearborn ica towards a more perfect union,” Huffington said, “with liberty and justice for all.” Michael & Peggy Goldberg Pitt Olivia P. Maynard and S. Olof Karlstrom William and Elizabeth Rands Sandra and Douglas McClennen She emphasized the need for Americans to set aside labels and party distinctions Sachs Waldman, P.C. Dr. Henry D. Messer and Carl House and to seek common ground. UAW-Ford National Programs Center Rolland & Fay O’Hare “It’s so important for all of us to fight the perception that somehow the ACLU is Dr. Bob Pettapiece liberal, or to want to fight for gay rights is liberal, or to want to protect children from Honorary Hosts Thomas C. Platt, M.D. being unduly incarcerated…is liberal. I keep fighting the battle that these things are not ACCESS James Rodbard & Mary Root left versus right, they are right versus wrong.” Joshua and Judith Lowitz Adler Pamela and Krishna Sawhney And she urged continued engagement. AFT Michigan Faye Schuett and Linda S. Burnett The Hon. Dennis Archer Robert and Rozanne Sedler “In the end, our lives do not have meaning if they are not about something beyond Peter Armstrong Claudia Seldon ourselves,” Huffington said, “if they are not about giving back to something larger than Mark Bernstein & Rachel Bendit Jack & Elsa M. Shartsis ourselves, which is why so many of you are engaged with the ACLU. And which is why Cornelia Bradford Michael Shubeck and Nancy Monsour so many of you that I met here tonight are doing such amazing work.” Mark Brewer Gus Teschke Executive Director Kary Moss spoke of founders past and future. Stacey Cassis and Dr. Arianna Morales Susan Titus “Just like our founders, we are not content with the status quo,” she said. “We are Clark Hill (Daniel J. Bretz) UAW Region I, Joseph Peters, director intent on growth. You are our founders for our next 50 years. As we move forward, Norton J. Cohen UAW Region 1-A, Rory L. Gamble, director throughout this great state, and expand our presence and work, the ACLU of Michigan Rev. Harry T. Cook Dr. Orian Worden will be stronger than we are now. We will honor our founders by remaining faithful to Margaret A. Costello their vision of a state in which every person can live freely...” Annual Dinner photos can be viewed on the ACLU of Michigan Facebook page. SILENT AUCTION DONORS Andiamo Novi Theatre Locher-the-Artist (Jeanette Locher) Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase Luigi Bruni Salon, Birmingham Astrein’s Creative Jewelers, Birmingham Lynn Portnoy Inc., Southfield Atlas Global Bistro, Detroit Meadow Brook Theatre, Rochester Avalon International Breads, Detroit Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit Marléne Burk Neferene.com (Augusta Simmons) Hedgie Cartwright (Celebrating Home) Neiman Marcus Troy Chateau Chantal, Traverse City Gwen Patrick Chizzy The Artist (Mike Chisholm) Phoenicia Restaurant, Birmingham Clara Clark Naomi and Robert Prince David Wachler & Sons Jewelers (Paul Maki) PRP Wine, Madison Heights Detroit Historical Society Purple Rose Theatre Company, Chelsea Detroit Princess Riverboat Howard and Rheta Rubenstein Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Troy Detroit Repertory Theatre Elsa Shartsis Detroit Symphony Orchestra ShopSarahScott.com English Gardens, West Bloomfield Lynn E. Simons From left to right, Atty. Joel Kellman, ADL Michigan Executive Director Betsy Fred Astaire Dance Studio, Bloomfield Hills Simply Wine, Birmingham Kellman, Detroit Branch NAACP Director Heaster Wheeler and Jennifer Wheeler Gem & Century Theatres, Detroit Ralph C. Simpson Grinstein Jewelry & Design, Birmingham Sweet Lorraine’s Cafe & Bar, Southfield Marian Hamilton The Heidelberg Project The Heidelberg Project, Detroit The Majestic Café, Detroit Hour Detroit, Royal Oak The Townsend Hotel, Birmingham Doretha Hunter The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit Hyatt Regency Dearborn Tiffany Florist, Birmingham Shirley Kelly Wayne Walma Audrey Lester WSU Theatres Lily’s Seafood Grill & Brewery, Royal Oak

From left to right, ACLU of Michigan Interns Jen Coleman, Clark Knudtson and Katherine Carlton

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ACLUMICH.ORG 5 AT THE GRASSROOTS METRO DETROIT BRANCH CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF GRASSROOTS ACTIVISM ATTORNEY AMOS WILLIAMS AND BILL OF RIGHTS DAY Though the ACLU has always been viewed as powerful, few people know that just a handful of brave and outspoken activists around the state of Michi- The 218th anniversary gan are responsible for the organization you know today. Long before there of the Bill of Rights was the was an ACLU of Michigan, there were all-volunteer committees working tire- perfect date to honor De- lessly around the state to confront government abuses of power. troit-area attorney Amos The stories of our formation are fascinating. Those of you who lived Williams. Williams was pre- through the McCarthy era, the civil rights movement, Vietnam, etc., remem- sented with the Bernard ber that it was no small feat to stand up to government power during these Gottfried Award, which is decades. To do so meant taking a level of personal risk that many don’t face given annually to remem- today. In 1960, speaking out against police abuse meant you and your family ber this area’s civil liberties could be followed home by squad cars. Fighting city ordinances that banned champion. Amos, who is a Atty. Amos Williams accepts the African Americans from buying homes meant facing ostracization or hostile good friend to the ACLU, Bernard Gottfried Award attacks from your neighbors. The fact that activists in Detroit, Lansing and has had a long career in the other Michigan cities not only persisted in their fight for constitutional rights law and in law enforcement and worked to establish a state office while winning tremendous victories and has been the ACLU’s go-to attorney on cases related to unconsti- along the way is nothing short of remarkable. We owe a tremendous debt of tutional behavior of police in Detroit Public Schools. The branch also gratitude to these many women and men who we call our founders. awarded three students who won this year’s Civil Liberties Creativity Contest for their written and lyrical works tackling civil liberties issues of greatest importance to them. The 2009 winners were Sajeda Ahmed, Flint Branch Marshaie Jones and Daniel Skierski. Our deepest thanks go to Michigan Then: In 1975, the Flint Branch was successful in getting the Shiawassee First Credit Union for generously sponsoring this year’s contest. Intermediate School District to reinstate an emotionally impaired student it had expelled unjustly despite Michigan law guaranteeing a free education and availability of federal funds for disabled students. GAY RIGHTS, STUDENT RIGHTS IN Now: In 2009, the Flint Branch, working with cooperating attorneys and staff from the state office, won relief for over 100 men and women who were unlaw- NORTHERN MICHIGAN fully strip-searched by Flint area law enforcement at a licensed dance club. Our Northwestern Michigan Branch participated in two know-your- rights events as they wrapped up 2009. November featured an update on the state of gay rights in Northern Michigan with ACLU Staff At- Lansing Branch torney Jay Kaplan. And in December, a packed room heard from attor- Then: In 1990, the Lansing Branch successfully argued that poor people facing neys Brenda Jones Quick and Al Quick on student rights to privacy, free jail time in a civil contempt proceeding for not paying child support have the speech and more. right to a court-appointed attorney. Now: The Lansing Branch convinced Bath Township officials in 2008 that the Township’s political sign ordinance limiting sign size was unconstitutional. It DON’T READ THIS BOOK! cleared the way for a Bath Township artist, who had been forced to take down The Southwestern Michigan Branch joined with the Kalamazoo his sign, to put it back in its place on his property. Public Library and the Art Hop to host a rousing reading of frequently Metro Detroit Branch banned and challenged books as part of the national week recognizing the Then: From 1952 to 1978, members of the Metro Detroit Branch waged a dangers of censorship. Local celebri- remarkable campaign to force the state to repeal all provisions of the Trucks ties read from banned or challenged Act. The Trucks Act, which was Michigan’s version of the federal Smith Act, books including The Kite Runner, intended to contain members or sympathizers of the Community Party and Animal Farm and Harry Potter. The other “subversive” groups. Restrictions or requirements for those suspected branch also awarded local artists in of belonging or associating with the Communist Party included having to reg- their first Banned Books Art Contest. ister with the state police, being prohibited from running for office, and being Leah Nicole Runchey won first prize banned from public employment. for her graphite and charcoal draw- Now: Leading up to the historic election of 2008, Metro Detroit Branch mem- ing: Censorship at Hogwarts; Anna bers educated hundreds of voters at welfare offices about their rights at the Barnhart won honorable mention for polls. her mixed media work: By Animals for Animals; and Katrina Slater won Northwest Branch honorable mention for her ink draw- ing: Family, inspired by children’s Then: In 1973, the Northwest Branch began a court-watching program to moni- book And Tango Makes Three. tor whether those accused of crimes were accorded all of the constitutional guarantees to which they were entitled. Now: In 2009, working with the state office, the Northwest Branch success- fully challenged the Leelanau County Sherriff’s Department to stop conducting unlawful home invasions in order to breathalyze minors. SAVE THE DATE! Oakland County Branch Then: In 1972, the Oakland County Branch obtained a Court of Appeals ruling To get the details about these events or agreeing with the ACLU that Rochester Schools could not ban Kurt Vonnegut’s purchase tickets, visit our website at classic book, “Slaughterhouse Five.” www.aclumich.org Now: The Oakland County Branch convinced the Ferndale Police Department in 2001 to put an end to a plan to breathalyze patrons at area bars and restau- February 2, 2010 – March 26, 2010: Southwest Branch rants without probable cause. Civil Liberties Film Fest, Saffron Indian Restaurant, Kalamazoo February 2, 2010: “American Violet” Southwest Branch A true story about race, the war on drugs and “confidential Then: An anti-war group was able to rally in Kalamazoo’s Bronson Park follow- informants.” ing the intervention of the Southwest Branch in 1971. The group was initially February 26, 2010: “People vs. Larry Flynt” denied their right to demonstrate in the park by a city commission after being Woody Harrelson stars as one of America’s most controver- quizzed about their attitudes toward society and their political views. sial figures in the fight for the First Amendment. Now: In 2002, the Southwest Branch defended the rights of an ordained minis- March 12, 2010: “Twelve Angry Men” ter to conduct baptisms in a public park. The classic film examines the concept of “reasonable doubt” in a murder trial. Stars Henry Fonda. Washtenaw Branch March 26, 2010: “The Lives of Others” Then: In 1968, the Washtenaw Branch took on “police-counselors” in local high This Academy Award winning foreign language film follows schools. The actions of the branch succeeded in keeping law enforcement from East Germany’s notorious Stasi secret police eavesdropping having access to student records or being able to question students without a on a playwright and his actress girl friend. A stark explora- parent present. tion of the effect of surveillance on the watched and the Now: In 2003, the branch succeeded in getting the Ypsilanti Housing Commis- watcher. sion to halt the use of their “one-strike” eviction policy against tenants who March 10, 2010: “Milk” screenwriter Dustin Lance Black dis- were victims of domestic violence. cusses the art of inclusiveness. Detroit. April 2, 2010: Lansing Branch theater fundraiser, Western Branch “The Exonerated.” Tickets, $25 includes refreshments and talk- back with the cast. Then: In 1984, the Western Branch worked with the Michigan Migrant Legal Assistance Project to obtain an injunction against warrantless searches of April 17, 2010: Northwest Branch Annual Dinner, Elks Lodge, vehicles containing persons of “Hispanic or Mexican origin” by the Immigration Traverse City. Speaker TBA. and Naturalization Services (“INS,” as it was called at the time) and U.S. Border April 20, 2010: A discussion of the ACLU’s gene patent Patrol. litigation and Southwest Branch Annual Meeting at the Fetzer Now: The Western Branch, as part of an area coalition, convinced the Grand Center, WMU Campus, Kalamazoo. Rapids City Commission to adopt a resolution protesting the overzealous and unconstitutional provisions of the post-9/11 USA Patriot Act. The branch orga- April 29, 2010: Author and minister Rob Bell speaks as part nized hundreds of community members to sign petitions to the City indicating of the ACLU’s 50th Anniversary Legacy Lecture series and the their opposition to the Patriot Act in 2005. Western Branch Annual Meeting. Grand Rapids.

6 VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ACLUMICH.ORG AT THE CAPITOL

• Giving women affordable 2009 LEGISLATIVE VICTORIES access to birth control • Promoting honest, medi- The ACLU of Michigan can look back with cally accurate sex education some pride at the good work we accom- • Guaranteeing that women who survive rape or sexual plished in Lansing during 2009. Victories assault are offered informa- are relative, and they can come in de- tion about, and access to, grees of magnitude, but we certainly had emergency contraception • Ensuring insurance cover- more victories than disappointments this age for birth control past year. • Expanding family-planning services • Ensuring that pharmacists Decriminalizing Medical Marijuana fill birth-control prescrip- tions Let’s start with the biggest – 63 percent of Michigan • Supporting teen-pregnancy voters, and at least 50 percent in every county, approved prevention efforts the decriminalization of medical marijuana in our state. All but two bills, both deal- The ACLU of Michigan was instrumental in shaping the fi- ing with infertility treatment, nal guidelines developed by the Department of Community passed the committee and will ACLU of Michigan attorneys and clients in the pregnancy discrimination lawsuit Health to administer Michigan’s Medical Marijuana Act. Our go for a full vote of the House against the DPD with Rep. Coleman Young, Jr. after a hearing on HB 4327 work is not over as we now need to defend the core protec- in 2010. This victory is a little tions of the law against abuse by some law enforcement sweeter because the ACLU agencies and from local municipalities that seek to subvert reached out to Right to Life of Michigan and secured their Ending Workplace Discrimination Of the fundamental rights granted under the voter approved “low-key” support on the bills that would require emergency initiative. In Lansing, the ACLU is proactively working with care facilities to inform and offer emergency contraception to Pregnant Women our legislators to effectively implement the Medical Mari- survivors of sexual assault. Another hard-fought victory for women of Michigan juana Act according to the will of Michigan voters. was realized on December 21, 2009, when Governor Gra- Advocating For LGBT Equality nholm signed into law HB 4327, now PA 190 of 2009. This Protecting Reproductive Freedom law increases protection in Michigan’s civil rights laws for The ACLU saw victories for the LGBT community this past pregnant women in the workplace. Our persistent work on While a battle rages across the country over further year, as well. Representative Rebekah Warren introduced HB this legislative victory stems from an ACLU legal challenge restrictions on a woman’s right and access to an abortion 4192 to amend the Elliott- Larsen Civil Rights Act to add sexual to the Detroit Police Department’s policy that prohibits a through the proposed health care reform, the Michigan orientation, gender identity or expression as protected class- pregnant employee from working during her pregnancy. legislature is on the verge of enacting several bills that es. After an informative hearing before the House Judiciary This policy clearly violates the Pregnancy Discrimination promote smart policy on reproductive rights issues. HB Committee, the bill passed and was reported to the full House Act under Title VII. 5155-5165, HR 118 -120 and HCR 23 support informed and of Representatives where it awaits a floor vote. Also in Novem- Representative Coleman Young Jr. introduced a bill responsible health care decisions regarding family planning ber, Representative Pam Byrnes introduced bills to overturn amending our civil rights law that would clearly prohibit while addressing the need to reduce sexually transmitted the constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage or discrimination based on pregnancy. With this amendment, diseases and unintended pregnancies. The package ad- similar union for any purpose in Michigan. a woman who is pregnant must be treated like any other dresses numerous reproductive rights and family planning After Representative Roy Schmidt introduced HB 4583, disabled worker in the organization. issues, including: a bill that would have re- With the continued influence and support of our Michi- moved the requirement for gan ACLU members, we expect we will realize more victo- informed consent upon HIV ries as we enter the last year of Michigan’s 95th Legislative testing, the ACLU of Michi- Session. 2010 is an election year and the Legislative Office gan formed a small coali- will, once again, prepare and publish a Voter’s Guide cover- tion with the Department ing the candidates for the Michigan Senate, the Michigan of Community Health, the House and for the Governor’s office. AIDS Partnership of Michi- gan and other HIV aware- ness groups to convey the importance of informed consent in HIV testing. STAFF Through our diligence and outreach, we expect the fi- Kary L. Moss Executive Director nal bill will pass through the Mary Bejian Deputy Director House and Senate. By doing so Michigan will ensure that Mia Axon Development Director patients are provided with Marie Burke Director of Finance and the information they need Administration to make an informed deci- Rana Elmir Communications Director sion regarding their HIV testing and potential treat- Michael J. Steinberg Legal Director ment. Shelli Weisberg Legislative Director Brenda Bove Paralegal Melissa Combs Major Gifts Officer Mark Fanche Staff Attorney Racial Justice Project ACLU OF MICHIGAN Paul Jeden Development Associate Jay Kaplan Staff Attorney LGBT WELCOMES MIA AXON AS Project Dan Korobkin Staff Attorney DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Roland Leggett Field Organizer The American Civil Liberties Union of Isela Patiño Office Manager Michigan is happy to welcome fundraising vet- Deborah Patrick Special Events Manager eran Mia Axon as development director. Jessie Rossman Staff Attorney In her role at the ACLU of Michigan, Mia manages and coordinates the organization’s development operations. Mia brings 18 years of development and OFFICERS leadership experience to the position. Most recently, she held the position of lead major Ralph Simpson President gift officer at the University of Michigan’s De- partment of Surgery. Prior to that, she was Jacquelin Washington President Pro Tem the regional major gifts officer at the Environ- Joe Tuchinsky Treasurer mental Defense Fund in Boulder, Colorado and William Fleener Secretary the Director of Development at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Wyoming. Mia also Jessica Hermann-Wilmarth Executive VP ACLU of directed the capital campaign at The Nature Michigan Fund Conservancy in Wyoming. In addition to her successes in develop- ment and fundraising, Mia is an accomplished RIGHTS REVIEW musician and professional rock climber. Be- fore Mia entered the development profession, OUR STRENGTH IS IN OUR Rana Elmir, Editor she served as the principal harpist for the Every voice is needed to help pro- Colorado Ballet Orchestra. Also, Mia was the NUMBERS tect and preserve civil liberties. Published by the national climbing champion in 1993 and 1994, American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan / Join our Action Alert Network and let your voice be heard. was fourth-place finisher in the 1994 World ACLU Fund of Michigan Sign up at www.aclumich.org and make the ACLU of Cup in Austria, and third-place finisher in ES- 2966 Woodward Avenue PN’s 1995 Extreme Games. Michigan a powerful voice in Lansing. This free, easy-to- Detroit, Michigan 48201 Mia graduated with a master’s degree use online service allows you to send emails to your state www.aclumich.org from the New England Conservatory of Music legislator with a click of a mouse. (313) 578-6800 and a bachelor’s degree in harp performance ACTION ALERT from the University of Michigan. VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.ACLUMICH.ORG 7 CREATING INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Spring Legacy Lectures explore the meaning of tolerance and the impact of artist/advocates in a new political era

In the East: Dustin Lance Black, artist/advocates and the new Legacy Lecture - East political class “Activism and the Creative Class” The ACLU of Michigan is excited to bring another national speaker to Detroit. Dustin Lance Black, the Academy Award-winning writer of the screenplay, “Milk” (about the life and tragic death of Harvey Milk) will Wednesday, March 10, 2010 speak at the spring Legacy Lecture on Wednesday, March 10, 2010, at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit @ 6 p.m. on the topic of “Activism and the Creative Class: The Art of Building Inclusive Communities.” As Michigan works Museum of Contemporary to build more inclusive communities – communities that will enliven the economy, enhance understanding Art Detroit and cooperation, and provide new opportunities for social and political engagement – artist/advocates are emerging as a voice for change and accord. We hope to continue the dialogue through this event. 4454 Woodward Avenue Black, 36, will share his personal experiences as an artist who has become a strong advocate for LGBT Featuring rights. The gay son of devout Mormon parents who grew up in Texas, Black, inspired by the example of Dustin Lance Black Milk, dared to come out, be himself and pursue his dreams. In addition to “Milk,” Black has won acclaim for Tickets: his work as a writer and producer of the HBO series, “,” about a modern Mormon family in Utah $30 members practicing polygamy, and for his screenplay, “Pedro” about the late AIDS activist . He won the $40 non-members 2009 Writers Guild of America-West Paul Selwin Award for work celebrating civil liberties and the 2009 Best $15 students Screenplay Academy Award for “Milk.” His success and advocacy now inspire others. $100 VIPs* The evening also will include a strolling reception that is perfect for networking. Sponsors helping to make this event possible are ACLU of Michigan LGBT Project Leadership Committee; Between the Lines; Bureau of Urban Living, Cooley Law School; Michigan Roundtable for *VIP tickets include Diversity and Inclusion; MSU College of Law; Rachel’s Place, Slows Bar BQ and The Whitney. To become admission to a private a sponsor, call special events manager Deb Patrick at (313) 578-6827. Sponsorships range from $250 to reception $5000 and include benefits at every level. Tickets are available online at www.aclumich.org, and by phone at (313) 578-6827, or you may use the form below.

Legacy Lecture - West Out West: Rev. Rob Bell, an Annual Meeting and a Civil “The True Meaning of Tolerance” Libertarian of the Year Thursday, April 29, 2010 On Thursday, April 29, 2010, the Western Branch of the ACLU of Michigan will hold its Annual 6 p.m. Meeting and Civil Libertarian of the Year Presentation at the Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids. Wealthy Theatre The featured speaker, drawn from our ongoing Legacy Lecture series, will be the Rev. Rob Bell, 1130 Wealthy Street founding pastor of the Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville, Michigan. His topic: “The True Meaning Grand Rapids of Tolerance.” Known for his “fresh take on Christianity that emphasizes inclusiveness, flexibility, love and Featuring the forgiveness,” Bell, 39, is the author of “Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith,” among other Rev. Rob Bell notable texts. His unconventional views draw thousands to Mars Hill and to speaking engagements Tickets: across the country and around the world. In the last three months, Bell has drawn audiences to $20 members college campuses, cathedrals and other venues in California, the United Kingdom and Australia. $40 non-members Tapping into a keen interest in religious liberty in the Grand Rapids area, the ACLU invited Bell to $10 students share his perspectives at the Legacy Lecture there. $100 VIPs The evening also will feature a reception and post-lecture book signing. VIP ticket holders will the opportunity to meet Bell in a more intimate setting at a private afterglow. *VIP tickets include admission to Tickets are available online at www.aclumich.org, at the Wealthy Theatre Box Office, 1130 the private afterglow Wealthy Street, S.E. in Grand Rapids; or by calling (313) 578-6827.

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Rob Bell on April 29 in Grand Rapids

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Advocate ($250) Benefactor ($500) Champion ($1000) Defender ($2500) Guardian ($5000) For more information contact Deb Patrick at (313) 578-6827. Send check with RSVP to ACLU of Michigan, Attn: Special Events Manager, 2966 Woodward Avenue,

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