LGBTQ and HIV Advocacy

The ACLU of Illinois firmly believes that rights should not be limited based on a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. We stand in support of inclusive policies that strengthen rights for LGBT individuals.

Women's and Reproductive Rights

The ACLU of Illinois is committed to ensuring that all women are treated with fairness and dignity in every aspect of society — never as second-class citizens.

Criminal Justice Reform

Decades of politically motivated “tough on crime” policies have failed to reduce crime and have instead overcrowded our prisons and jails with individuals who pose little threat to society.

First Amendment Advocacy

Freedom of speech, freedom of the press, the right to peacefully assemble, and religious liberty are fundamental cornerstones of our democratic society. The ACLU of Illinois has a long history of defending these values.

Police Practices and Racial Justice

The ACLU of Illinois has a long history of challenging policing practices and attitudes entrenched in many municipalities that lead to reprehensible and unconstitutional racial bias.

Voting Rights

The ability to vote is the cornerstone of America’s representative democracy and essential to preserving our system of self-government.

Institutionalized Persons

The ACLU of Illinois believes that persons in government institutions or for whom the government is responsible deserve a fair and constitutionally appropriate level of care.

Immigration

The ACLU of Illinois advocates for an immigration system that upholds the American ideal of being a welcoming nation for newcomers and refugees.

Government Accountability and Personal Privacy

The ACLU of Illinois believes that our constitutional system requires the government to be accountable to the public. It must operate with openness and transparency, ensuring that the public is informed about how our tax dollars are spent and what actions are taken in our name.