We the People is a blog series that features the stories of members, supporters, volunteers, and allies of the American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota. Together we are accomplishing critical work in our state to protect and advance civil liberties across the midwest and beyond.
Luke Alton Huber is from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, he joined the ACLU of South Dakota at a recent volunteer training. Read how Luke plans to use the skills he gained to improve his community by empowering others.
When did you first hear about the ACLU and why did you want to get involved?
A couple of years ago I travelled to the Standing Rock Reservation. Hundreds of activists marched down a gravel road in protest of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Along our march, there was a man standing outside of the crowd, wearing a vest and recording the entire thing. It wasn’t until later that I was told this man was there on behalf of the ACLU. His support as a Legal Observer was something that I and many others found to be comforting, and cannot wait to do myself.
How does the ACLU and our work relate to you personally? Are there any issues you feel most connected to?
As a gay man who grew up in a small town, I value diversity. Personally, I can relate to what it feels like to be insecure in your own identity. As I’ve grown to love myself, I’ve also developed compassion and a sense of companionship with others who feel that they are at a disadvantage for being who they are. My true passions lie in protecting the rights of the LGBTQ community and advocating for the well-being of senior citizens.
How do you plan on putting what you learned at the volunteer training into action?
I will empower those around me to vote, especially during local elections. Additionally, I’ll take it upon myself to include others when there are opportunities to take action. I will gladly lend my time to benefit the work of the American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota, whether that is driving voters to the polls or tabling at events like Sioux Falls Pride.
What would you tell someone who is considering joining the ACLU as a volunteer or member?
I would express my appreciation for what the ACLU accomplishes and encourage them to get involved and learn more by getting in touch with a staff person at their local affiliate.
What are you most looking forward to as an ACLU volunteer?
I am excited to meeting others who are just as passionate about people as I am! In the last couple of years, I’ve felt discouraged by the tremendous amount of hate that I have seen. Most recently, however, I have seen more love, and I firmly believe that love always wins.
Interested in sharing your ACLU story? Email Adam at: ajorgensen@aclu.org
