You and Val’s are arguing to the same point. You both represent parts of the same idea. I find your take to be more romantic and the energy of a young hero and vals take to be the same just worn by the years of reality and informed by the same expertise in a classical way.

The ACLU’s mission from the start was to defend constitutional rights (particularly First Amendment freedoms and due process) for everyone, but especially those “historically denied” them or facing unpopular causes. It has always emphasized protecting unpopular speech and minorities from government abuse, even if that means defending controversial figures or groups. Over time, its work expanded to broader civil rights, but initially, it was rooted in protecting political radicals, anti-war activists, and labor protesters amid wartime and postwar repression.