April 24, 2009

In new book, Wendy Kaminer describes ACLU censoring itself

Why does this not come as a total shock?

As described by John Leo in his "Bookshelf" column in today's Wall Street Journal, reviewing Wendy Kaminer's new book, "Worst Instincts: Cowardice, Conformity, and the ACLU" --
In 2006, the ACLU descended into self-satire by drawing up a gag order to cover its own board members -- no public criticism of policies or personnel, because speaking out might hurt fund raising. When word got out, a storm of ridicule forced the withdrawal of the plan. But Ms. Kaminer notes that only six of the 53 ACLU affiliates protested the no-dissent policy; the ACLU apparently couldn't be bothered to defend its own right to free speech.
I especially like that last sentence.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

If I could find the best comedy writer in this country (and have them use a false name so he/she wouldn't alienate all of their lefty limo-lib friends), I don't think any written joke could be funnier than the truth of this.

Jack Coleman said...

As I recall, Ed, I laughed out loud when I read about it.