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To the Editor: 

I am writing in an effort to provide balanced reporting in an article regarding the Berkeley City Council resolution titled: Oppose the P.A.T.R.I.O.T. Act, Justice Department Directives, and Executive Orders Preventing the Protection of Civil Rights and Liberties, a University of California professor who was quoted did not disagree with the Council's assertions that the Patriot Act is unconstitutional, he just said that “Once again the city of Berkeley is out of step with the rest of the nation.” 

For my fellow citizens, who are more concerned with our appearances to others than for their civil liberties, I want you to know that Berkeley has bravely joined 30 other cities nationwide in such condemnation. I would also recommend that all public servants who have taken an oath to defend the U.S. Constitution and California think of other expressions that will ultimately preserve our democracy from those who would steal it. 

Finally, to those Americans who are so afraid that they are willing to give up their own civil rights for “security,” please understand that you may not give up mine. 

Harry Wiener 

Berkeley