Loss of civil rights atty Julian, immigration hearing

Here are some bits of liberty news from today...

Civil Rights Attorney Percy Julian
Here's a nice article that notes the passing of Madison civil rights and liberties attorney, Percy Julian. The article points to both the leadership and progress that Julian made, but also notes the PBS special on Percy's father, a race barrier-breaking chemist. You can check out the documentary on the PBS website which includes a recording of Julian Jr. talking about his father's example and his love of tulips. Something to think about as Madisonians look for signs of spring.

Immigration hearing
The State Journal printed a wrap-up of a hearing on immigration with the Dane County Sheriff's office on Monday night. Another Cap Times article points out how moving the hearing to a bigger room made for less than perfect conditions. There was also video coverage by WKOW (ABC), Channel 3000, and NBC 15 which was the only story to mention that a Dane County ordinance was passed in 2002 that prevents law enforcement from asking people about their immigration status. Reports from people who attended the hearing said that the two speakers who were featured in the news reports were the only ones who spoke in favor of greater reporting of immigration violators. The overwhelming majority of attendees where opposed to it.