Building a Budget that Prioritizes Racial and Social Justice for FY25

A state’s budget is a list of its most pressing priorities – here’s what the ACLU of New Jersey is urging government leaders to include for FY25.

A photo of the New Jersey State House in Trenton on a sunny day.

2023 in Review – And How We Can Achieve Even More in 2024

As we aim for greater progress in the new year, it’s important to take stock of this year’s accomplishments. Here’s our snapshot of the legislative wins, stalemates, and hopes for civil rights in New Jersey.

By Sarah Fajardo

Group of women with protest signs

A Conversation Guide on Building a More Perfect New Jersey in 2024

With the holiday season approaching, we know these topics might come up at the dinner table. Here’s a guide to help you talk about your rights in New Jersey, dispel misinformation, and organize your family and friends.

Mult-racial family enjoying thanksgiving dinner around a table

NJ Lawmakers Must Meet the Moment in Lame Duck and Advance Civil Rights and Liberties

With Election Day over, lawmakers must turn back to unfinished business in Lame Duck and advance racial and social justice before the conclusion of the current legislative session.

By Sarah Fajardo

New Jersey Statehouse in Trenton

On Book Bans and Censorship: a Q&A with Martha Hickson, 2023 NJ Librarian of the Year

Even though New Jersey has been a national leader in protecting and expanding civil rights and liberties, there have been censorship attempts across the state this year.

By Elyla Huertas

white Woman in a white and green tshirt holding a mircophone and a book addressing a crowd in a bookstore

A Student Q&A on Creating Change and Giving Back

When Roe v. Wade was overturned in June of 2022, one student was inspired to fight back by selling tie dyed canvas bags and donating the proceeds to the ACLU of New Jersey.

tie dye bags hanging over a railing in front of a white house

Action Needed for Expansion of Reproductive Rights – Your Ballot is the Key to Accountability

Ensuring that New Jersey prioritizes funding for abortion facilities and clinics is more crucial than ever.

By Sarah Fajardo

Protestors holding signs reading "abortion is healthcare. Abortion is a right"

Abortion must be accessible and affordable for all. Anything less is unacceptable.

In New Jersey, abortion is legal and the right to reproductive autonomy remains protected. However, legality does not ensure equitable access to this time-sensitive care. Many insurmountable barriers to accessing abortion remain.

By Alejandra Sorto

red text on yellow backgrond reading "Abortion Access for All"

Eating Breakfast Shouldn’t Result in Child Protective Services Coming to Your Home – But it Just Might if You’re Pregnant

Last year, two new moms in New Jersey needed legal help after they were drug tested during labor – without their knowledge or consent – at local hospitals. There was no medical justification for the hospitals to perform these tests; they did so only because the patients were pregnant.

By Molly Linhorst, Emma Roth

a woman cradles a baby in her arms, touching the baby's feet