The Minneapolis – St. Paul Lawyer Chapter film screening of Soul of Justice: Thelton Henderson’s American Journey on January 17, 2007 was a success! The event was co-sponsored by the American Constitution Society for Law and Policy, the Hennepin County Bar Association and the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers. The film examines the inspiring work of one the first African-American federal judges in the United States and chronicles the impact of his decisions on the lives of millions. In addition to the screening, attendees heard remarks by Judge Michael J. Davis, U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota; Judge John R. Tunheim, U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota; and Abby Ginzberg, Soul of Justice Filmmaker/Director. The reception was generously provided for by Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi L.L.P.

Al Franken delivered remarks at a January 26th reception in Minneapolis organized by the Minnesota Lawyer Chapter. Mr. Franken spoke on “The Threat to Civil Liberties in the War on Terror,” and argued that national counter-terrorism and defense policy has caused numerous violations of rights and liberties. He took particular issue with the Administration's domestic surveillance program, and the Department of Justice's citation of General George Washington’s interception of mail during the War of Independence as a supportive precedent. Franken rejected that analogy, observing that “we weren’t a country yet.” Over 120 people attended the event, which was hosted by the law firm Fredrikson & Byron.  (Photo courtesy of Matt Klaber)