What does the ACLUM do?
The ACLUM protects civil liberties. Civil liberties are things the government can’t do. It can’t tell you what to say, write, read, or think. It can’t tell you what to do with your body, or imprison you without fair trial.
To protect civil liberties, the ACLUM works across a wide range of issues, from racial justice, to economic reform, to reproductive freedom, to free speech. Recently the ACLUM has:
- Sued the City of Boston for withholding public records
- Sued the Federal government for the unlawful expulsion of asylum seekers
- Coordinated with activists to pass the Roe Act in Massachusetts, further protecting Reproductive Freedom in the Commonwealth
In addition to their direct work fighting in courts or in the State house, they compile resources for elected officials, journalists, and activists. They’ve created tool kits for local advocacy groups, civil rights documents for immigrants, and launched their “Data for Justice Project” aimed at providing data highlighting critical issues in the Commonwealth.
Their work is expansive. Check out their cases and projects here.
Why does it matter?
The ACLUM is the lead guard dog holding local, state, and federal governments accountable. They protect citizens by pushing back against government overreach, empowering activists, and pressing elected officials to enact meaningful change. Without them, we wouldn't know our rights have been infringed until it's too late.
How you can help
The ACLUM has the expertise. What they need is attention and money. It costs a lot to sue the government, and the weight of public attention helps the ACLUM pushback government overreach.
You can help this work by:
- Subscribing to updates from the ACLUM
- Donating what you can, even if it’s only $1
That’s it for us this week!
As always, we appreciate you helping us grow by sharing with your friends and family.
Best!
A Better Boston team