News & Commentary
Mar 30, 2016
ACLU Offers Legal Representation to Warwick Media Outlets Threatened with Libel Suit
Addressing a brazen attempt to chill freedom of speech, the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island today announced it has agreed to provide legal representation to the Warwick Post and the Warwick Beacon, both of which have been threatened with a defamation suit if they write stories about the contents of a public document.
Feb 09, 2016
In Response to Advocate Concerns, City of Providence Halts Enforcement of Anti-Panhandling Ordinance
In a major step towards reducing the criminalization of the poor in Rhode Island, the City of Providence has advised the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island that it would halt enforcement of an anti-panhandling ordinance that has led to the harassment and arrest of homeless individuals. The ACLU had called for this action in a letter delivered to Mayor Jorge Elorza two weeks ago, in which it pointed out the ordinance's dubious constitutionality and its impact on the rights of the poor and the homeless.
Jan 06, 2016
Providence Street Musician Can Perform Without Interference In Settlement of Free Speech Case
The City of Providence can no longer stop musician Manuel Pombo (left) from performing or soliciting donations on city streets as part of a settlement reached today in a First Amendment lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island.
Dec 16, 2015
ACLU Files Suit To Challenge Cranston Ordinance Barring Roadside Solicitations
It may be the season of giving, but in some Rhode Island communities, those seeking the kindness of others often face punishment simply for asking for help. That dichotomy is being challenged by the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island today in a federal lawsuit on behalf of a disabled person summoned to court and threatened with arrest for holding a handwritten sign seeking donations as he stood on the median of a Cranston roadway.
Dec 03, 2015
Religious Freedom Isn't A Seasonal Issue
By Johanna Kaiser, Communications & Development Associate
Nov 05, 2015
ACLU Settles Suit on Behalf of ACI Inmate Retaliated Against for Criticizing Prison Policies
The American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island today announced the settlement of a federal lawsuit on behalf of Jason Cook, an ACI inmate who, the suit alleged, was the victim of retaliation by prison officials for publicly criticizing RI Department of Corrections’ (DOC) mail policies and seeking legal assistance from the ACLU. Under the settlement, the DOC, while denying any liability, has agreed to pay a total of $7,500 in damages and attorneys’ fees.
Oct 15, 2015
ACLU Statement In Response To Reports Of Police Actions in Pawtucket
The ACLU of Rhode Island released the following statement today in response to reports of police actions yesterday at William E. Tolman Senior High School (VIDEO) and during the resulting protests this morning in Pawtucket:
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