In the coming weeks, one of our nation’s most fundamental liberties is up for a vote on the floor of the U.S. Senate.  That’s why I need your help to ensure the Senate’s support for my Habeas Corpus Restoration Act.

Your efforts -- and those of thousands of other concerned citizens -- have made all the difference.  On July 18, the Washington Post lauded our efforts:

"...No government should be allowed to hold people indefinitely without affording them a chance to challenge that detention. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick J. Leahy (D-Vt.), ranking minority member Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) and others planned to introduce the Habeas Corpus Restoration Act of 2007 this week to recognize such due-process rights for detainees..." (Source: "Justice at Guantanamo", Washington Post. 7/18/07)

As the Iraq debate continues, I need your help to keep up our momentum and ensure that the restoration of habeas corpus remains at the top of the Senate's agenda this month. And once you have reached out to your home-state Senators, please multiply your impact by spreading the word.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

Last fall, Congress eliminated the fundamental right of habeas corpus when it passed the Military Commissions Act. I urge you to reverse this assault on our American legacy of liberty by supporting the Habeas Corpus Restoration Act when it comes to a vote in the coming weeks.

The elimination of basic legal rights undermines, not strengthens, our ability to defeat terrorists. It is from strength that America should defend our values and our way of life. It is from the strength of our freedoms, our Constitution, and the rule of law that we can prevail. We can ensure our security without giving up our liberty. We must restore the checks and balances that are fundamental to preserving the values that define us as a great Nation.

It is urgent that we restore our legal traditions and ensure there is a fair and independent check on the ability of any President to lock someone up illegally. I urge you to cast a yes vote for the Habeas Corpus Restoration Act this week and oppose any effort to filibuster it.

Signed,

Campaign Launched:
July 16, 2007