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


News & Commentary
voting

Your Vote Is Your Voice – Make It Heard in November’s General Election

There is no more fundamental right in our democracy than the right to vote.
News & Commentary
ACLUTrentonRally

Defending Democracy Requires All Of Us

The second Trump administration has not just picked up where it left off – it is moving with greater speed, more aggression, and fewer constraints.  
News & Commentary
VRA

The Right to Vote is Protected in New Jersey – That’s the Law

The John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act expands access to the ballot box, fortifying New Jersey with some of the strongest voting protections in the country.
Press Release
Press Release ACLU of New Jersey

Voting Rights Advocates Urge Governor Sherrill to Reject Voter ID Laws in New Jersey

In response to recent statements from Gov. Mikie Sherrill, several voting rights advocates sent her a letter calling for her to firmly and unequivocally reject the notion of voter ID laws in New Jersey.

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation


Court Case
Apr 6, 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.