One of the founders of the ACLU of Delaware has died. Joan Rosenthal (nee Langer) died on January 11, 2020. She was 85 years old.

Joan was a great mentor to all she worked with at the ACLU. Her knowledge was deep, her passion strong, and her willingness to help quick.

She was the Administrative Director from 1978 to 1982 and the Executive Director from 1982 until 1986. She also served on the ACLU national board. She and her husband, Joseph (Joe) were among our most deserving Kandler Award recipients, receiving the award in 1996.

She received the Delaware Bar Association’s Liberty Bell Award in 1985 for her commitment to civil rights and justice. It is the highest award given by the Bar to someone who is not a lawyer nor a judge.

We at the ACLU of Delaware honor her memory, wish comfort for her family and friends, and are very grateful for the years of gracious and hardworking service she provided.

A fuller obituary is available HERE.