Ira Glasser facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ira Glasser
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Glasser receiving the Richard J. Dennis Drugpeace award in 2015
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| 5th Executive Director of the American Civil Liberties Union | |
| In office 1978–2001 |
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| President | Norman Dorsen Nadine Strossen |
| Preceded by | Aryeh Neier |
| Succeeded by | Anthony D. Romero |
| Personal details | |
| Born | April 18, 1938 New York City, U.S. |
Ira Saul Glasser was born on April 18, 1938. He is an American activist who works to protect people's rights. From 1978 to 2001, he was the leader of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). This group helps make sure everyone's freedoms are protected.
His life story is even featured in a movie. It is a 2020 documentary called Mighty Ira.
Ira Glasser's Early Life and School
Ira Glasser was born in Brooklyn, New York. This happened on April 18, 1938. He grew up in a busy city.
He went to college and studied math. He earned a special degree in mathematics. This was from Ohio State University.
Ira Glasser's First Jobs
In the early 1960s, Ira Glasser taught math. He taught at two colleges. These were Queens College and Sarah Lawrence College.
From 1963 to 1967, he worked as an editor. He helped put together a magazine called Current.
In 1967, he joined a group called the New York Civil Liberties Union. He started as an associate director. By 1970, he became the main leader. He led this group until 1978.
Leading the American Civil Liberties Union
In 1978, Ira Glasser became the leader of the national ACLU. This is the American Civil Liberties Union. He helped make the ACLU much stronger.
When he started, the ACLU was smaller. It had offices in only about half of the states. Glasser helped it grow a lot.
By the time he left, the ACLU had offices everywhere. They were in all fifty states. They also had offices in the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
He also helped the ACLU get more money. In 1978, they had $4 million each year. By 1999, this grew to $45 million. This money helped them do more work.
The ACLU usually helps people through lawsuits. Glasser made the group do more. He added programs to teach people about their rights. He also worked to influence laws.
Ira Glasser retired in 2001. After him, Anthony D. Romero became the new leader.
