Police Practices

Every Californian who has an encounter with the police deserves to be treated with dignity and fairness. But too often police officers violate individuals’ constitutional rights. The ACLU of Northern California works to hold law enforcement accountable. We advocate for victims of police misconduct and support reforms that make our communities safer, while also reducing the role of police.

Outline of the state of California overlaid with pictures of a protestor holding a sign that says "I can't breathe" and the lower bodies of police in protest gear

Gold Chains: The Hidden History of Slavery in California

Gold Chains highlights California’s slavery past which is not taught in schools.

Through narratives, public records, archival material, and images, this project exposes California’s hidden history and the ways in which its legacy persists in the state’s courts, culture, and conscience.

Explore Gold Chains
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The Latest

Press Release
Collage of images from Siskiyou County

Siskiyou County Settles Claims Over Race-Based Traffic Stops, Agrees to Major Reform

Sheriff’s Office to follow new traffic stop reforms and comply with independent oversight
Press Release
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ACLU Renews Call for Transparent Investigation of Alleged Misconduct by Vallejo City Attorney 

News & Commentary
person on cell phone, eyeball, and surveillance camera

Mass Surveillance in the Trump Era

The Trump administration is weaponizing technology to build a mass-surveillance state.
News & Commentary
the feet of walking military troops

Be prepared. Know your rights.

On Thursday, the Trump administration sent federal immigration agents to the Bay Area. They fired flash bangs at peaceful protesters.
Campaign
Mar 2024

The Campaign to End California's Prison to Deportation Pipeline

Learn about the campaign to stop the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation from funneling people into the federal deportation machine.
Campaign
May 2023

Police Decertification in California: How it Works

Learn how to report police officers for decertification under a new California law.