Van Valkenburgh Doesn’T Shun Controversy

As executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho, Jack Van Valkenburgh has voiced positions on many controversial topics, including some in North Idaho. Here are a few of his notable comments.

Weighing in against a proposed position statement on how to teach Post Falls students about the origins of life: “I was a bit alarmed to read some of what was included in that statement, particularly a reference to intelligent design theory, which is a euphemism for creation science, which isn’t a science… There’s no place for that kind of a theory in public school.” Aug. 10, 1998.

Opposing a new Idaho law that essentially would ban abortions after the 13th week of pregnancy: “We are bringing this challenge quickly to protect women who won’t be able to get an abortion, especially a second-trimester abortion…The new law subjects Idaho doctors to criminal prosecution, loss of license and civil liability, all for violating a ban that has not been medically defined.” March 18, 1998.

On whether the Jewish Defense League had a right to counter-demonstrate during the Aryan Nations march in July in Coeur d’Alene: “We think the government needs to accommodate all kinds of expression…They don’t necessarily need to be at the same time if it creates logistical problems.” March 10, 1998

On opposing mandatory term limits for elected officials: “It’s like the government whispering in your ear in the ballot box as to how you ought to be voting.” May 7, 1997

On opposing a new law that would punish inmates for filing frivolous lawsuits: “It’s not going to save the state money by denying basic human rights to prisoners…While politicians love to trumpet the frivolous nature of many inmate lawsuits there are also many examples of lawsuits brought by inmates that were absolutely critical to protect their fundamental rights.” March 27, 1996

On opposing prayer at a high school graduation ceremony in Grangeville: “Any child can still pray or say grace on an individual basis…The court’s decision ensures that the religious liberty of all students - not simply the majority of students - is respected.” May 19, 1995

On plans to fight any anti-gay rights initiative filed in Idaho: “We should take them seriously, whether they talk of statewide or local antigay initiatives… Obviously they’re a serious threat to freedoms and they’re not going to just go away.” Nov. 11, 1994