"Why I'm proud to help sustain the ACLU"

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October 30, 2006

Dear Voices of the ACLU:

On September 11th 2001, I watched as Anthony Romero, on what was only his second week on the job as the ACLU's new executive director, gently informed a room full of major donors from around the country of the tragedy that had just struck the nation.

Anthony proved his leadership that morning and throughout the following months and years of civil liberties challenges as he guided the ACLU into high gear and worked tirelessly to secure our rights and liberties.

Working with Anthony was always invigorating. He appropriately pushed the staff and institution to rise to the challenges of the day. And did so always respectful of the principles the ACLU seeks to defend.

Having worked as a reporter for The New York Times and then in the communications department at the ACLU's national headquarters and Washington Legislative Office, I know firsthand the uphill battles an advocacy organization must fight to get its views into the media. It is highly distressing to see coverage of the ACLU diverted from the organizationÕs critical mission of forwarding the struggle for our rights.

Although I no longer work at the ACLU, I continue to be a proud sustaining member. I am confident that my monthly investment in the ACLU is in good hands with Anthony and his senior leadership team at the helm.

Phil Gutis

Director of Communications, Natural Resources Defense Council (2005 - present)*
Director of Legislative Communications, ACLU Washington Office (1995-2005)
Media Relations Director, ACLU National Office, New York (1990-1995)
*Listed for identification purposes only

 

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