We the People is a blog series that features the stories of members, supporters, volunteers, and allies of the American Civil Liberties Union of North Dakota. Together we are accomplishing critical work in our state to protect and advance civil liberties across the Midwest and beyond.
“Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
Those wise words from Mr. Rogers are an enduring reminder of the good in the world. The presence of helpers offers calm hope in moments of chaos – no matter how big or small.
Sarah Goth doesn’t have to look far to find a helper. She just has to look in the mirror.
Being a helper, Sarah says, is her calling. And problem solving is one of her greatest skills. So it’s should be no surprise that she’s excelling in her new role as the office manager for the ACLU of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming chapter.
As office manager, Sarah is responsible for ensuring the chapter’s physical offices are running smoothly and efficiently while also managing the needs of remote staff across the three states. From managing the collection of administrative data and reports to collaborating on updating and maintaining chapter policies, Sarah plays a critical role in the operations of the office and the chapter’s overall work.
“Being a helper is my calling, and I can already see how my work will serve my team so they can do the important work in our community,” Sarah said.
When did you first hear about the ACLU and why is the work appealing to you?
I think I was ambiently aware of the ACLU but didn’t start paying closer attention until Anthony Romero’s election statement after the 2016 election. I know I wasn’t alone in feeling dispirited in the wake of the Trump election. Anthony Romero’s statement gave me hope. Not only hope, but it opened my eyes to the resources for continuing to show up for my community.
Which of the ACLU’s issue areas are you particularly passionate about and why?
I pay close attention to reproductive freedom and LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit rights.
What is your favorite way to get involved in your community?
I spent several years as an administrative assistant improving the management and policies of the beloved downtown Sioux Falls public art non-profit, SculptureWalk. I will continue to volunteer for this free, accessible public art program to keep it an enriching and diverse public program.
Do you have any advice for someone who might be interested in getting more politically involved in their community?
Please vote, please pay attention, and use your privilege to serve the most vulnerable in your community.
Which of the Constitution’s amendments are most important to you and why?
The First Amendment is important, as it contains the five critical freedoms: religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.
The Fourteenth Amendment claims equal rights for all! This includes equal protection of the law. I recently attended a naturalization ceremony and was reminded of the privilege of citizenship.
And then, of course the Nineteen Amendment, which gave most women and nonbinary Americans the vote! Not only that, but I think it has a broader implication today – that gender discrimination laws are unconstitutional.
What issues do you think are most important for North Dakotans to pay attention to?
I think we need to pay attention to decisions being made for us. We have seen house bills that only harm the most vulnerable communities based on sentiment/opinion. We need to hold our leaders accountable for misusing their positions and wasting valuable resources.
