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The First Amendment Network is a network of diverse groups in Pennsylvania who share a common interest in ensuring that the right to free speech is protected.
Mission Statement
We affirm and celebrate dissent as a core American value and we stand together in defense of it. From our diverse backgrounds we uphold free speech as the backbone of democracy and a cherished constitutional right.
Background
Members of the First Amendment Network (FAN) came together in the wake of revelations in the fall of 2010 that the Pennsylvania Office of Homeland Security had contracted with the Institute of Terrorism Research and Response (ITRR), a private security firm, to monitor perfectly legal activities such as taxpayer protests and candlelight vigils. This information was circulated to hundreds of law enforcement and private entities across the state. (More about this issue at www.aclupa.org/tracked)
FAN is made up of groups who work on a variety of issues, including immigrants’ rights, civil liberties, peace, and the environment. They have come together to celebrate the right to dissent without fear of government surveillance or harassment. The group meets regularly in Philadelphia to plan events and other outreach about the importance of the right to free speech.
FAN Activities
In November 2010 we held a town hall on the War on Dissent, and in the spring we held a panel discussion on the history of FBI domestic spying and attacks on progressive groups and the Muslim community. We plan to launch an initiative this fall to do outreach on college campuses to educate students about the issue of surveillance of activists, both in the past and today.
What You Can Do
- Join the FAN listserve to keep current on all activities (email fan@aclupa.org to join).
- Ask your organization to become a member of FAN. It’s free!
- Tell your legislators to stand up for the First Amendment and free speech.
- Educate friends and neighbors about the issue.
- Volunteer with FAN. We need writers, graphic designers, public speakers, and people to table.
How to Get Involved
To join the FAN listserve or the FAN coalition, please contact FAN at fan@aclupa.org or 215-592-1513 x122.
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