ACLU

When I was younger, and worked in an "old HP" test and measurement division, I sometimes sat at lunch in the cafeteria with a group of older co-workers who I grew to have immense respect for. They told great stories. I learned a lot of practical electronics from them... and other things too.

Each carried on their person a copy of the US Constitution and Bill of Rights, and most also had a "concealed carry" permit, which they would refer to as their "redneck license". I quickly learned that they weren't all gun fanatics... at that time, the vetting process for such a permit was a bit daunting, and having one was their way of "proving" that they were honest, law-abiding citizens. Citizens who knew their rights. Who enjoyed debating boundary conditions in those rights inspired by current events at the lunch table. I miss those guys and those conversations.

I mention this because it's one of those things that I realize now had a significant formative impact on my adult values and world view. Freedom matters. That's why, despite my long-standing appreciation for and support of the organization's activities, I'm embarrassed to admit that it wasn't until this week that I personally joined the American Civil Liberties Union and sent them a donation.