Maine Civil Liberties Union:

Because Freedom Can't Protect Itself.

We did it!!

Today Senator Collins joined 3 other Republicans and the Democrats on the Armed Services Committee in voting down a White House proposal that would have gutted the Geneva Conventions and due process rights in the trials of prisoners in United States military custody.

Please call Collins and thank her for voting against the White House military tribunal bill.

After meeting with Collins staffers last week, we were unsure that she would go the right way on this legislation. We asked for your help, and you answered. Your calls, e-mails and letters convinced Senator Collins to oppose this legislation that would have set the dangerous precedent of allowing secret evidence to be withheld from defendants in terror trials, using coerced testimony and protecting U.S. interrogators against prosecution for using methods that violate the Geneva Conventions.

The fight isn’t over. As this bill moves to the floor, you can be sure that the White House will attempt to amend it to have their way. When you call to thank Senator Collins, urge her to continue her leadership on human righst issues by opposing any legislation that doesn’t honor the Geneva Conventions.

Senator Collins: (202) 224-2523

This issue is bound for the Senate floor. So, while you're at it, call Senator Snowe and tell her join with Senator Collins in opposing any legislation that allows military commissions that admit secret evidence or evidence obtained through cruel and inhuman tactics, or that bars prisoner from attending their own trials.

If we validate cruel and inhuman treatment of prisoners in U.S. custody, how can we expect that captured American soldiers will be treated any better? If America is to be a leader in human rights, we must lead by example- not only with our words but with our actions.

Call today.
Senator Snowe: (800) 432-1599

As always, thanks for what you do. I can say without a doubt that it truly makes a difference.

Rachel

Rachel L. Myers
Field Organizer
Maine Civil Liberties Union
www.mclu.org

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There are many opportunities to join us in our efforts. Please contact us at volunteer@mclu.org to find out how you can help.