About Us
Why We're Here
The USA PATRIOT Act, passed on October
26, 2001, in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks, grants sweeping
new powers to law enforcement and intelligence gathering authorities.
Many of these powers can and are being used to undermine and otherwise
violate the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
Also adding to the problem are the Homeland
Security Act and a number of federal executive orders, which put aside
the rights of the people in the name of security. At times like this,
we must remember the words of Benjamin Franklin:
“Those who would give up essential
Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty
nor Safety.”
The USA PATRIOT Act and related acts and orders
passed since September 11th pose a real and serious threat to American
freedom and the American way of life. But this threat will not be
met without resistance. So far, over 100 towns, cities, and/or counties
have passed resolutions in opposition to the USA PATRIOT Act and in support
of civil liberties and the Bill of Rights.
Our Mission Statement
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee seeks to promote awareness and understanding of the civil liberties
and rights guaranteed by the Constitution to all people within the United
States.
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee seeks to provide information to the citizens and residents of
San Mateo County about the threats posed to their liberties by the USA
PATRIOT Act and related acts and orders.
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee seeks to protect the citizens and residents of San Mateo County
from infringement upon their civil liberties and rights.
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee seeks to pass resolutions for San Mateo County and its various
cities in support of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee seeks the repeal of the USA PATRIOT Act and related laws which
threaten liberty.
A List of Promises
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee will be an independent organization, and will not become part
of a larger, national organization.
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee will maintain focus on civil liberties issues and not get involved
in partisan politics.
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee will do its best to represent the interests of the citizens and
residents of San Mateo County, and will seek to build broad, public support
for our efforts.
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The San Mateo County Bill of Rights Defense
Committee will present truthful and straightforward information and will
not engage in politicking, fear mongering, brainwashing, lying, or other
such activities.