Fusion center encourages investigations of anti-war activists

[G_j]

http://theglobalreport.org/print.php?news_id=6372

Fusion center encourages investigations of anti-war activists

Feb. 26- A Texas fusion center's "Prevention Awareness Bulletin" made public last night is the latest example of police intelligence operations targeting political, religious and social activists for investigation. The North Central Texas Fusion System bulletin states that it is "imperative for law enforcement officers to report" the activities of lobbying groups, Muslim civil rights organizations and anti-war protest groups in their areas.

"This memo is not a plea for legitimate intelligence, and seems to endorse discrimination against Muslims," said Caroline Fredrickson, Director of the ACLU Washington Legislative Office. "The idea that the tolerance advocated by the groups being targeted would be treated as a menace to American security demonstrates a disregard for civil liberties and a disdain for democracy itself. The kind of indiscriminate and unlawful investigations this bulletin calls for always results in a chilling effect on free speech and association."

The federal government has facilitated the growth of a network of fusion centers since 9/11 to expand information collection and sharing practices among law enforcement agencies, the private sector and the intelligence community. There are currently 70 fusion centers in the United States.

"It should be obvious with the constant news of increased violence in Mexico that Texas needs law enforcement to focus on real criminal threats instead of targeting religious minorities and groups with unpopular political opinions." Rebecca Bernhardt, ACLU TX Policy Director said, "The North Central Texas Fusion Center should be reviewed to determine whether it can contribute to the serious public safety mission of Texas or not."

Proponents have claimed all fusion center personnel receive civil rights training, and that this training is sufficient to protect the privacy and civil liberties of Americans living in the communities where fusion centers operate, but this is obviously not the case. The ACLU has long warned that ambiguities regarding who controls these fusion centers and a complete lack of oversight over their intelligence activities would lead to violations like this.

..more..

[tularetom]

1. I don't want to appear stupid but I really have to ask

What the fuck is a fusion center?

And should I be concerned if somebody wants to build one next door?

[Terran]

3. I had no idea either, but lo and behold:

http://www.dhs.gov/xinfoshare/programs/gc_1156877184684.shtm

Kind of weird how they toss this term around casually. I think it's creepy.

[tularetom]

4. Should've known the Dept. of Fatherland Security had somethin to do with it

Thanks for the enlightenment. I will indeed be concerned if somebody proposes putting one in next door.

[G_j]

6. yep

and it's amateur hour...

[southasiawatch]

2. yes!

all your base are belong to us!

[leveymg]

5. This is what happens when small town Sheriffs are deputized as Junior G-Men to sniff out "terraists"

It's the kind of abuse of basic civil liberties that occurred during the Red Scare period of the Palmer Raids following World War One. In 1919 it was Commies and Wobblies - today the target is Terra and PETA people.