Examine civil liberties

Overview: Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the U.S. government has shifted its focus to homeland security and the fight against terrorism. However, some lawmakers and libertarians say the federal government is trampling on individual rights in the name of anti-terrorism. Have students investigate and identify examples of when Congress has curtailed civil liberties to protect national security.

Have students read the story "Attacks alter government's mission, makeup" and answer the following questions:

1. How has the focus of the U.S. government changed since the 9/11 terrorist attacks? What action has the government taken to enhance security in Washington, DC? What are the responsibilities of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency? According to the article, what measures are these agencies taking to fight terrorism?

EXTRA INFORMATION In-Depth: America Remembers    RESOURCES • Families and Work Institute: 911 As History  • Turner Learning: Educational Materials Archive for 9/11  • AOL@school: 9/11 One Year Later  • AOLTW 9/11: Family Discussion Guide  • Holt, Rinehart and Winston: A Day that Changed the World

2. What new Cabinet-level department has President George W. Bush proposed? What is the status of the Department of Homeland Security legislation? Teachers: For additional information and a teaching activity on Bush's homeland security proposal, go to: "Bush's homeland security proposal"

3. Remind students that, "Homeland security and the fight against terrorism are now the concern of virtually every government agency." Ask students: Why are some lawmakers and libertarians concerned about the government's "aggressive posture" in its antiterrorism efforts? Challenge students to brainstorm a list of different government agencies and the measures they are taking to promote homeland security and combat terrorism. If necessary, send students on an online scavenger hunt to access this information. List students' responses on the board. Then ask: What do you think of these measures? Could any of these measures impinge upon individual rights? Explain. If so, at what point, if any, should civil liberties be curtailed to enhance security?

4. Group students and assign each group a time period between 1798 and the present. Direct groups to their textbooks and other resources to identify examples of when Congress has curtailed civil liberties to protect national security. Have students research the history and circumstances surrounding these legislative actions. Following each presentation, ask: Did the legislative action achieve its goal? Why or why not? What civil liberties were sacrificed? Do you think it was necessary for these liberties to have been sacrificed? State your rationale.