I just received an new action alert from the ACLU regarding the debate over ‘indefinite detention’ that’s going on in Washington right now. Apparently, it’s not so much over whether or not we SHOULD do it…rather, should it be by executive order, or legislation? I can hardly believe it.

I’m sending an action alert email thingie, from the ACLU’s website. I decided to copy the text here…I’m proud to send it. Note: this IS based on “suggested text”, but I’ve personalized it. I can provide a diff on request. *grin*

—BEGIN EMAIL—

It saddens me greatly that I have to send this email.

Unbelievably, there appears to be a debate over indefinite detention heating up in Washington, and I want you to know of my concerns. A debate. Over holding people without trial. Indefinitely. Some of whom we KNOW are not guilty of anything other than being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Indefinitely. Some of whom we have strong evidence against (which could be used, in perhaps…a trial). Some of whom we’ve tortured. (I say that without the ‘allegedly’ weasel word, because we’ve admitted we did so.)

I believe with all my heart that the administration is going down the wrong path in even considering a policy which would indefinitely imprison individuals without charge or the chance of a trial, beginning with the detainees at Guantánamo Bay. It’s wrong, plain and simple.

Indefinite detention is a violation of due process and the American principles of justice and fairness. It strikes at the heart of what makes us a great nation, and sets a terrible, terrible precedent.

Therefore, I urge you to reject any policy or proposal that would indefinitely imprison individuals without charge or the chance of a trial.

Those who disagree with me on this have every right to do so, though it concerns me greatly that it’s even an arguable point. I have little but contempt, however, for individuals that take this stance out of political expediency. There ARE things worth fighting for, and this is one of them. We are better than this. We have to be.

I realize the issues surrounding the closing of Guantánamo are difficult and complex, but we cannot afford to go down a path that violates our own Constitution. We simply cannot. If we do, we’ve done the terrorist’s job FOR them. Surely you understand that.

I respectfully ask that you do what is in your power to reject indefinite detention — whether through legislation or executive order.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

—END EMAIL—

Everyone should make their own decision on this, and I realize not everyone agrees with me. (It boggles my mind, but I accept it.) If you do agree, however, I encourage you to also share your views via this action alert form. If you disagree, I also encourage you to share your views, but I’d use a different form…you can’t change the subject line.

You can find your Senators and Representatives via this lookup form on the OpenCongress website, and the White House contact form is here. Whatever your opinion, communication with your elected representatives is a critical aspect of our form of government. Please reach out.