The Choice Facing NJ Lawmakers: Uphold Democracy, or Dismantle It

In the past month, New Jersey elected officials have made it a top priority to roll back OPRA by fast-tracking a bill that would severely limit the public’s ability to access information.

By Sarah Fajardo, Joe Johnson

A line of people waiting to testify at the OPRA hearing wraps around the State House.

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.

New Jersey Enacted Legislation to Restrict Solitary Confinement – the DOC Must Ensure the Law Lives Up to Its Promise

The Legislature and Governor Murphy did their part by passing the Isolated Confinement Restriction Act four years ago. Now the DOC and county jails must ensure that the law lives up to its promise.

By Alexander Shalom

Mark Hopkins, a survivor of solitary confinement, stands next to the words "Torture is a Moral Issue."

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

How Our Pioneering Legal Practice Advances Civil Rights Before the State’s Highest Court

ACLU-NJ Director of Supreme Court Advocacy Alexander Shalom makes his 100th argument before the New Jersey Supreme Court.

Three people standing in front of ballons of the number 100 in an office conference room

Categorical Clemency: A Beacon of Hope in an Unjust Criminal Legal System

New Jersey has a moral responsibility to address its history of mass incarceration and racism by offering more opportunities for release. Categorical clemency offers a powerful way to do so.

Open doors in a prison.

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