Friend –

I started at the ACLU as the National Legal Director nine days before Trump first took office in 2017. In that first term, I saw firsthand how crucial the ACLU's work is to fight back against attacks on our civil rights and liberties.

One thing I've learned is that these fights are never over. But at no time in my life has it been more necessary that we stand together in defense of basic principles like democracy, liberty, equality, and the rule of law. As I told "The Nation," I believe the courts work best when the American people are standing up for our rights and for the values that we believe in. The Constitution is made meaningful by our actions that defend the country's best principles of justice.

That's why I hope you'll join me on Tuesday, May 13, to support the vibrant ACLU-D.C. community as it continues to fight for our rights in deeply challenging times. It's a night to come together, honor incredible activists, and recommit to the fight for justice here in D.C. and across this country.

It would mean so much to me if you could be there when I accept the Arthur B. Spitzer Lifetime Achievement Award. At a time when rights and freedoms are on the line, we need to take a moment to come together and strengthen our movement. And yes, we'll have some fun while we're at it.

It's up to all of us to make the Constitution's promise a living reality. No organization does that more effectively than the ACLU. So let's resist, fight back, and win together. I hope to see you on Tuesday, May 13.

David Cole
Former National Legal Director at ACLU