Civil and Human Rights Coalition Condemns Congressional Subpoenas to Intimidate Advocacy Groups

WASHINGTON – Nancy Zirkin, executive vice president of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement on Texas Congressman Lamar Smith’s issuing of malicious subpoenas to several research, advocacy, and philanthropic organizations for information about their activities to combat climate change:

“Congressman Smith is abusing congressional power by issuing subpoenas to scare advocates from exercising their right to free speech. The American people expect elected officials to be responsible stewards of the power and authority of their offices.  By maliciously issuing subpoenas against those he disagrees with, Congressman Smith has shown disdain for that responsibility.  This strongman tactic is unbecoming of a legislator who has been in office for almost 30 years and violates fundamental American principles.

Congressman Smith’s behavior is a clear and unmistakable threat to the free speech of advocates: those who exercise their civil right to free speech do so at their own peril and risk the wrath of a congressional investigation into their activities. In a free and democratic society, this cannot be tolerated.”

Nancy Zirkin is executive vice president of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights is a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the rights of all persons in the United States. The Leadership Conference works toward an America as good as its ideals. For more information on The Leadership Conference, visit www.civilrights.org.