Our Work

The ACLU of Northern California makes sure that Constitutional rights — to free speech, to privacy, to due process — don’t just exist on paper, but also in practice. The ACLU is the first line of defense against threats to civil liberties and we work to ensure these freedoms are guaranteed to every person in this country.

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In the Courts

For decades, the ACLU Foundation of Northern California has used the courts to protect and expand the rights of all Californians. From fighting against the internment of Japanese Americans, to suing California Highway Patrol for targeting Black and Latinx drivers, the ACLU is building a more just state one lawsuit at a time.

Learn about our cases
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Know Your Rights

Everyone has basic rights under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws. We work with communities to make sure people are informed about their rights. When you know what the law says, you can better protect yourself, your family, and your community.

Know Your Rights Guides
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Publications and Reports

As part of our work, the ACLU of Northern California issues reports, position papers and advocacy materials that study and note developments in civil liberties.

Explore our Publications

Legislation

Each legislative session, ACLU California Action sponsors a legislative agenda that pushes our state forward by sponsoring bills that advance policy change on a broad range of issue areas.

ACLU California Action is a 501(c)(4) organization jointly formed by the ACLU affiliates in California. Its mission is to protect civil liberties and civil rights, advance equity, justice, and freedom, and dismantle systems rooted in oppression and discrimination. The organization uses rigorous policy analysis, advocacy, and strategic communications to achieve policy change on a statewide level. It advances this work through collaboration with organizations that have members directly impacted by policy decisions in Sacramento. Beyond legislation, ACLU California Action aims to build enhanced political power and influence for the ACLU and our collective movements statewide.

Visit ACLU CalAction's website
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