The American Civil Liberties Union is once again defending the right to protest in Louisiana. And it may not be for the reasons one may automatically assume when the ACLU is mentioned. The Associated Press reported Friday that the ACLU filed a lawsuit on behalf of Edwin Crayton. Crayton was standing in front of Wal-Mart on Oct. 4 with a sign that read, “Christians: Wal-Mart Supports Gay Lifestyles And Marriage. Don’t Shop There.” While we do not agree with Crayton’s message, we support the ACLU’s efforts to protect his right to protest. Some might find it surprising the ACLU, an organization which receives much criticism about its actions from conservatives across America, would defend a man of Crayton’s views. In fact the ACLU has repeatedly shown a willingness to defend the rights of those with conservative views, even here in Louisiana. On Oct. 29, 2002, the ACLU challenged the constitutionality of New Iberia’s parade permits. This challenge came after police threatened to arrest Ernest L. McGee in 2001 after he protested outside a Kmart when the store decided to temporally stop selling guns and ammunition after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. As reported by The Advocate, McGee’s sign read, “Kmart refused to sell guns to the elderly, women and to you.” Anti-gun control efforts are often associated with conservative platforms. We have said before in this space that a person’s right to express his or her beliefs should be protected no matter what those beliefs may be. Despite the criticisms of some pundits, including Bill O’Reilly who called the organization a “terrorist organization” in 2005, the ACLU is an organization dedicated to protecting the freedom of Americans, regardless of what views they carry. It is comforting to know there is an organization dedicated to giving unpopular opinions the protection they deserve. The minority viewpoint needs to be protected. Otherwise this country – founded upon the ideal that a free and open dialogue can only better society – will have lost one of its key components. Liberal and conservative are two labels that most likely forever be applied to political topics, whether they be one candidate or a vast organization. We urge students to look past labels before trying to understand the viewpoints of a person or organization. This past week Collins Phillips announced that he will no longer be active in fighting for the rights of students. We understand his desire to focus on graduating, especially after the University attempted to silence him for voicing his criticisms openly. Though the student body has lost one leader, we all should continue standing up for our right to speak freely. Even if you disagree with the ACLU’s execution of its mission to protect the civil liberties of U.S. citizens, take up their ideal and refuse to let any opinions – even unpopular ones – be stifled.
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