WELCOME BRENDA LEE GREEN

The American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia is pleased to announce the hiring of their new Executive Director, Brenda Lee Green.  She comes to the ACLU of WV after having served for three years as the Executive Director of the Philadelphia based organization Concern for Health Options: Information, Care, and Education (CHOICE) and previously as Director of Community Development and Vice President for Education at Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania, Inc.  Having facilitated discussion on First Amendment issues, immigrant's rights, post 9/11 government surveillance, and due process concerns, Brenda is well versed in the issues of the ACLU.  With her sincere devotion to both the issues and organization, Brenda is sure to lead the ACLU of WV to new heights.  

CALLING ALL HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Are you a college-bound high school senior with commitment to civil liberties?  We want to hear from you! 

The ACLU of WV Foundation is offering $1,000 Youth Activist Scholarships to high school seniors devoted to civil liberties.  A wide varitey of efforts can represent your commitment.  If you have started a GSA, taken a leadership role in programs aimed at addressing women's rights or racial profiling, organized a protest against censorship, or have otherwise promoted civil liberties in your area, apply today.

In addition to demonstrating a strong commitment to civil liberties, each scholarship applicant must be a high school senior planning on entering an accredited college or university full-time.  Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 at the time of graduation.  Demonstrated financial need will increase a student's chances of qualifying.

Interested applicants should contact Nancy Hill at (304) 345-9246 or e-mail her at nhill@acluwv.org.  Application deadline is April 30th, 2012.

ACLU of West Virginia in Partnership with Fairness WV Launch WV Bully-Free

UPDATE: 12/14/2011 West Virginia's Board of Education voted to include bullying protections for students based on sexual orientation and gender identity.  This is the first time in West Virginia that a statewide policy includes such provisions.  With this passage we are one step closer to both safe schools and equality.  Thanks to all those who've spoke up and showed your support!

Because we believe all children are entitled to be themselves while attending school in a safe and supportive learning environment, ACLU of West Virginia in partnership with Fairness WV has officially launched WV Bully Free, a campaign for safe schools. 

WV Bully-Free is a statewide anti-bullying campaign which takes a stand against bullying by documenting stories of harassment based on perceived sexual orientation and gender identity in order to raise awareness.

The campaign encourages individuals to add their voices to the conversation and take an active role in ending bullying. We encourage you to listen to their stories and pledge to make West Virginia schools safe for all students. 

For more information on the campaign efforts learn the facts.

 *Note the campaign website is maintained independently of the ACLU of WV's webpage.