Protecting the rights of all Rhode Islanders since 1959.

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News & Commentary
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ACLU of RI Statement on the Need to Protect Free Speech

"The ACLU has a long history of defending free speech — not just when it’s easy or agreeable, but also when it’s difficult and divisive. Core political speech must be defended most fiercely when it is controversial, because that is precisely when it is most at risk."
News & Commentary
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Court Blocks Trump-Vance Administration’s Unlawful Housing Grant Restrictions

Rhode Island judge grants temporary restraining order in federal housing funding case.
Action | Send a Message
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Tell Providence leaders: Protect our privacy from surveillance!

The Providence Police just announced the "Real Time Crime Center" – a new surveillance system, combining feeds from cameras (including privately owned cameras, if the owner opts in) and other technologies located across Providence, so law enforcement can see what's happening in real time all over the city. The issue: Regardless of what the police say their intention is in using the system, there are no guardrails in state law or city ordinance protecting our privacy rights, our data, or government transparency. That's why we need your help. Fill out this form to contact the Providence City Council and urge them to pass a city ordinance that strongly protects our privacy rights, and defines how our data can be collected, stored, and shared. We've given you a template below, edit the middle paragraph to explain why privacy is important to you!
Know Your Rights
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: What You Can Do as a Bystander During Immigration Enforcement Actions

It’s easy to freeze when you see immigration agents (ICE) detaining someone, especially if the officers are acting quickly or aggressively. This FAQ is intended to give some suggested actions you can take as a bystander in this situation.

Issues We're Monitoring

Criminal Justice Reform First Amendment Government Transparency Immigrants’ Rights LGBTQ+ Rights Privacy & Technology Racial Justice View All Issues

Banned Books Week Event: Discussing "1984" and How We Protect Our Freedoms

Join us for a discussion of the historically-banned book 1984 by George Orwell. A speaker will read excerpts from the novel, we will have a group discussion of the common themes between the book and current threats to our rights, and then ACLU staff will explain ways you can help protect our freedoms in Rhode Island. You’ll leave the event with a packet of resources and tools to take action! This event is free and open to all, registration is required.

Explore Event
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Featured Case

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National Alliance to End Homelessness v. Scott Turner, et al.

This case suit challenges new funding restrictions on federal housing grants. Under the new funding application rules, service providers and communities are blocked from applying for federal housing funds for new permanent supportive housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness if they operate in jurisdictions with policies the Trump-Vance administration disfavors. This includes cities and states, like Rhode Island, that the Trump Administration deems to be “sanctuary protections” for immigrants; that provide services considered “harm reduction” services for drug users; and that have inclusive policies for transgender people.