National ACLU Director to Speak at Pittsburgh Annual Meeting
PITTSBURGH, PA (March 8, 2007) – Anthony D. Romero, National Executive Director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), will be the keynote speaker at the ACLU Greater Pittsburgh Chapter annual meeting on Sunday, March 18 at 2:00 p.m. at David Lawrence Hall at the University of Pittsburgh. The event is free and open to the public.
As part of this year’s theme, “Restoring America’s Freedoms,” Mr. Romero will address current issues such as the Patriot Act, abuse of presidential power, treatment of detainees held at Guantanamo, and warrantless wiretapping of Americans.
Mr. Romero assumed his ACLU leadership role in 2001, one week before the September 11 terrorist attacks. National membership has nearly doubled to more than a half million “dues-paying” members during his tenure.
“Pittsburgh has a reputation for addressing tough issues,” said Mr. Romero. “This chapter has played a lead role in cases involving racial profiling and displaying religious icons on government property, as well as protecting organizations’ rights for peaceful protests.”
ACLU-Greater Pittsburgh serves ten Southwestern PA counties and more than 4,500 members. Legal Director, Witold “Vic” Walczak oversees the ACLU’s litigation throughout Pennsylvania.
“We are thrilled to have Anthony attend our annual meeting and share the national perspective with us,” said Walczak. “We are excited to hear about the national impact of our local work and to learn how we can do more here in Pittsburgh to ensure that America stays safe and free..”
The Greater Pittsburgh ACLU annual meeting will also include a report of the year’s legal activities, election of new board members, and volunteer recognition awards. Former ACLU-Pittsburgh executive director and social justice advocate Marion Damick will be honored with the chapter’s lifetime achievement award. David Millstein, longtime ACLU supporter and volunteer attorney will receive the “civil libertarian of the year” award.
For more information on the meeting call 412-681-7736 or email info@aclupgh.org.
Mr. Romero will also host a leadership conversation at a dinner event from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the 20th Century Club. Tickets are $100.
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