The ACLU website shut down right after the election from all the people trying to donate
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) received an influx of donations within the 24 hours after Donald Trump became the president-elect of the United States. So many, in fact, that the site shut down for a while. The ACLU, whose mission is to preserve American citizens’ rights and liberties, reported their website crashing in the early hours of November 9.
Nearly 40,000 people donated to the ACLU in those 24 hours, bringing the organization’s total to a record $2.4 million.
Are you ready to fight for an America that believes in all of us? Join ACLU to fight for our rights: https://t.co/X3srfeWpeh
— ACLU (@ACLU) November 10, 2016
“The surge was an over 7,000% increase to our donate link,” Gabriela Melendez, spokeswoman for the ACLU, said. “It’s hard to say how long it was down for and we’re trying to pull dollars and gift numbers. Our system is extremely overwhelmed with all of the hits we’re getting.”
Website is up and running. Go to https://t.co/RjPcgH66kY. https://t.co/zMohwt0DLn
— ACLU (@ACLU) November 10, 2016
Several contributors made their intent clear on social media: They donated to the ACLU in order to ensure that any political changes don’t infringe on anyone’s individual rights and freedoms. Which is exactly what the ACLU is there for.
Executive Director Anthony Romero echoed these sentiments in a blog post directed at Trump yesterday morning.
We're going to need to be in this together. https://t.co/RjPcgGOuWo pic.twitter.com/DyOYA9vSQC
— ACLU (@ACLU) November 9, 2016
"These proposals are not simply un-American and wrong-headed, they are unlawful and unconstitutional. They violate the First, Fourth, Fifth, Eighth, and 14th Amendments," Romero wrote, referring to Trump's proposals on immigration, women's rights, torture, and freedom of expression. "If you do not reverse course and instead endeavor to make these campaign promises a reality, you will have to contend with the full firepower of the ACLU at every step."
Should President-elect Donald Trump attempt to implement his unconstitutional campaign promises, we'll see him in court.
— ACLU (@ACLU) November 9, 2016
The general public hasn’t been shy about their feelings towards the president-elect either. Thousands took to the streets in New York City, Chicago, and other major cities yesterday in protest of Trump’s election.
We encourage everyone to stay safe during these protests, and thank you for making your voices heard.
