ACLU Supports Diocese of Bridgeport

As we have reported on the blog, the Diocese of Bridgeport is suing for an injunction against the State of Connecticut Office of State Ethics' attempt to have the diocese register as a lobbying organization. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has sided with the diocese, filing an amicus brief on behalf of the Church.

Bishop William Lori says, "The ACLU’s decision to join with the Diocese in this case demonstrates that this is a matter of fundamental civil liberties that threatens the Constitutional rights of all citizens."

He continues, "Holding a protest rally on the steps of the State Capitol and posting information on our diocesan website are not lobbying but an expression of our First Amendment rights of free speech. We welcome the support of the Nation’s leading civil liberties organization, and look forward to making our case against the misguided actions of the Office of State Ethics."

For more information, visit www.bridgeportdiocese.com/story_ACLUStatement.shtml