What We Do
We make sure that Constitutional rights — to free speech, to privacy, to due process — don’t just exist on paper, but also in practice. The ACLU is the first line of defense against threats to civil liberties and we work to ensure these freedoms are guaranteed to every person in this country.
At a Glance
The ACLU Foundation of Northern California works with communities to make sure people are informed about their rights. When you know what the law says, you can better protect yourself, your family, and your community. View our updated "Know Your Rights" resources.
For decades, the ACLU Foundation of Northern California has used the courts to protect and expand the rights of all Californians. From fighting against the internment of Japanse Americans, to suing California Highway Patrol for targeting Black and Latinx drivers, the ACLU is building a more just state one lawsuit at a time. View our cases.
Every legislative session, ACLU California Action (formerly the ACLU of California Center for Advocacy and Policy) passes groundbreaking legislation that pushes our state and country forward. In Sacramento, our legislative advocates and staff collaborate with lawmakers and other organizations to draft bills, mobilize ACLU supporters, and work in partnership with impacted communities. View our legislative advocacy toolkit.