Whistleblowers and Courage Advisory Board members Thomas Drake and Daniel Ellsberg discussed the recent passage of the USA Freedom Act (following the expiration of the Patriot Act’s Section 215), pointing out problems with the bill while praising Snowden for a “symbolic victory” and for generating the global debate that has led to legal and technological reforms, surveillance inquires and an increasing opposition to mass surveillance.
Drake said, “This is the first time since 9/11 that any publicly known legislation has changed. Mitch McConnell was unable as majority leader to push through what he wanted.” He added, “This vindicates Snowden, even if it’s only symbolic vindication.”
Snowden is “responsible for the Congress refusing to simply rubber stamp the program,” Ellsberg said, while noting that the Act is “in the right direction, but very minimal.”
Both whistleblowers will be in Berlin on Sunday 7 June for a Courage-sponsored discussion on the digital surveillance state, which also features Jesselyn Radack and Coleen Rowley, moderated by Courage’s Sarah Harrison.