Democracy & Civic Engagement

The ACLU-NJ advocates for a government that is accountable to the people and for access to the tools that will allow people to participate fully in public life.

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A government by the people, for the people can only exist when members of the public are able to freely participate in civic life and make their voices heard. Democracy requires transparency from our officials, unrestricted voting rights, the freedom to dissent, and the ability to meaningfully obtain information about and weigh in on important government decision-making.

The ACLU-NJ advocates for a government that is accountable to the people and for access to the tools that will allow people to participate fully in public life.

The Latest

Press Release
Press Release ACLU of New Jersey

ACLU-NJ and Partners File Brief in Support of Rep. LaMonica McIver

The ACLU of New Jersey, the National Women’s Law Center, and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund have filed an amicus brief in support of U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver, who is facing federal charges stemming from a congressional oversight visit of Delaney Hall.
Issue Areas: Democracy & Civic Engagement, Immigrants' Rights, Racial & Economic Justice
Court Cases: United States v. McIver
News & Commentary
Voting booths

Here’s Everything You Need to Know About New Jersey’s CD-11 Special General Election

New Jersey is holding a special general election to fill the seat representing the 11th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. We compiled a list of FAQs to make sure you have all the information you need going into this special general election. 
News & Commentary
No kings

In America, There’s Still No Place for Kings

Over sixty No Kings demonstrations took place here in New Jersey with thousands showing up in support of democracy and to condemn the Trump administration's horrific abuses of power.
News & Commentary
vyv

New Jersey’s CD-11 Special Election is Coming Up – Here's What You Need to Know

New Jersey will be holding a special election to fill the seat representing the 11th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. We compiled a list of FAQs to make sure you have all the information you need going into this February special primary election.
Court Case
Apr 06, 2026

United States v. McIver

Amicus brief arguing that the Indictment against Congresswoman LaMonica McIver stemming from her oversight visit to an immigration detention center in Newark should be dismissed and the decision below reversed because she is entitled to legislative immunity and the charges represent improper political retribution.
Court Case
Nov 12, 2024

Jersey City United Against the New Ward Map v. Jersey City Ward Commission

This case centers on whether the redistricting maps for Jersey City Council Wards complies with the Municipal Ward Law and the Free Speech, Free Association, and Equal Protection Clauses of the Constitution.
Court Case
Jul 10, 2023

In re Tom Malinowski, Petition for Nomination for General Election

Amicus brief challenging New Jersey's anti-fusion voting laws.
Court Case
Mar 11, 2024

Kim v. Hanlon

Amicus briefs arguing that New Jersey’s system for designing primary ballots violates voters’ constitutional rights.