Un-American Surveillance in Md.
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It is shocking that undercover Maryland State Police officers conducted surveillance on antiwar protesters and death penalty opponents for more than a year ["Police Spied on Activists in Md.," front page, July 18]. Among the targets of this surveillance were Amnesty International meetings, events and activists.
Peacefully organizing and expressing dissent is a fundamental right. It is outrageous that such activity has been treated as criminal; the longevity of the program reveals a mind-boggling disregard for the rights of American citizens. The public deserves to know the full extent of this program, and those found responsible for any transgressions must be held accountable.
Amnesty International has a long, proud history of standing up to government-sanctioned intimidation in its mission of ensuring human rights for all. Such tactics will not derail our efforts. As this episode demonstrates, defending human rights at home is more important than ever.
LARRY COX
Executive Director
Amnesty International USA
New York
