Susan Goering, the former executive director of the ACLU of Maryland, passed away on June 21 after a battle with cancer. She was 73 years old and is remembered for her tireless advocacy for civil rights, particularly for Black Marylanders and women.
Born on November 12, 1952, in Kansas, Goering was the eldest of five children raised in a Mennonite family that instilled in her a strong sense of social justice. Her childhood experiences, including a fascination with nature and a pivotal moment inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, shaped her commitment to activism.
Goering earned her political science degree and law degree from the University of Kansas, later moving to Baltimore in 1986 to lead the ACLU's legal efforts. Over her 32-year tenure, she focused on civil rights cases that challenged systemic inequalities, including the landmark "driving while Black" case, which prompted a nationwide reevaluation of police stop-and-search policies.
Her work also included significant lawsuits regarding funding disparities in Baltimore public schools and housing discrimination against Black residents. Colleagues praised her for her visionary approach and her ability to execute complex legal strategies with a spirit of optimism.
In 1996, Goering was appointed executive director of the ACLU of Maryland, a position she held until her retirement in 2018. Throughout her career, she became a prominent figure in the media, advocating for various social justice issues, including the rights of pregnant women, LGBTQ+ marriage equality, and prison reform.
Goering was also a devoted mother to her son, Austin, who recalls her passion for public service and the life lessons she imparted. Her legacy continues to inspire those who knew her and those who benefit from her lifelong commitment to justice.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
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