AUBURN - The U.S. constitution guarantees every person the basics of civil rights: the right to free speech, the right to not be discriminated against and even the right to gather in public places.

But do you know the exact rights you are given under the constitution?

According to Barrie Gewanter, chapter director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, public education is the best defense against the violation of these rights.

“Public education is key,” she said during a discussion titled “Civil Liberties in the Streets & Towns of Central New York” at Cayuga Community College Thursday evening. “People don't know how to protect or defend their civil rights if they don't know what those rights are.”

Gewanter said many people do not even know their civil rights have been violated.

“They just feel that something is wrong,” she said.

Hundreds of letters are sent to the ACLU each year.

“We are here to help, protect and defend the rights of everyone regardless,” Gewanter said.

Activist Kathleen Rumpf encouraged guests by saying that one individual can make a difference.

“We don't have to stand by and watch our civil rights erode,” she said. “Individuals can affect change. Sometimes it is just a matter of standing up for someone.”

Attorney Jo Piersma, president of the central New York ACLU chapter, said the old cliche, “that knowledge is power” is a true statement.

“It is not always about the Supreme Courts, or even large corporations,” she said. “It is about everyday life.”

“It is about bringing an end to the abuse of power,” said board member Dr. Joyce Hackett Smith.

“We may be small, but we are devoted,” said attorney Susan Griffith.