Racial Justice

The ACLU of Maryland aims to preserve and extend constitutional and statutory rights to persons who have historically been discriminated against on the basis of race. We have also assumed the additional charge of helping Maryland overcome the stains of a history of legal segregation that manifests itself in structural and institutional racism that still exists. That legacy expresses itself in rural areas like the Eastern Shore as well as in Baltimore City, where historic racism has contributed to a concentration of people with low income within a densely populated urban setting now undergoing economic transition.

Freddy Gray mural

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Because Black Lives Matter, the ACLU of Maryland works to end racism and oppression against Black people.

The ACLU of Maryland knows that Black people deserve to always have their whole selves and voices considered and valued in the laws, policies, and practices of our institutions, particularly in our government.

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REPARATIONS FOR SLAVERY NOW

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We will never achieve racial justice in America if this country does not examine the impact of slavery and its legacy – and make strides toward achieving reparatory justice.
Reparations are about acknowledging the damages inflicted on Black Americans through enslavement and post-emancipation exclusionary polices; repair, healing, respect, and restoring Black dignity and reconciliation, so that we can walk together to create a more just and humane society.

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The Latest

Press Release
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ACLU Maryland Statement on Governor Moore Signing Emergency Legislation Banning Formal 287(g) Agreements in Maryland

Today, Maryland’s leaders showed courage. In the face of rising authoritarianism and a national agenda rooted in fear, our state chose values over intimidation and community over cruelty.
Issue Areas: Immigrants' Rights, Racial Justice, Due Process
Press Release
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Advocates And Community Members Hold Emergency Rally for Immigrant Rights in State Capitol

Emergency rally & vigil urging lawmakers to pass legislation limiting state collaboration with federal immigration enforcement, arguing that increased policing and surveillance make communities less safe.
Issue Areas: Immigrants' Rights, Civil Rights, Racial Justice, Due Process
Press Release
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Ahead of Key Hearings, Advocates and Lawmakers Urge General Assembly to Advance Maryland Voting Rights Act, Pro-Voter Reforms

The Maryland Voting Rights Act (SB 255/HB 350 and HB 219) and companion pro-democracy legislation matter to Marylanders’ lives and futures. These measures will empower Marylanders by ensuring every vote equally counts, make voting more accessible, and root out intimidation and suppression tactics that silence voices.
Issue Areas: Voting Rights and Elections, Racial Justice
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Federal Appeals Court to Hear High-Stakes Challenge to ICE “Bait and Switch” Tactic Targeting Maryland Immigrant Families

Oral arguments before United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in challenge to cruel ICE “Bait and Switch” entrapment tactic
Issue Areas: Immigrants' Rights, Racial Justice, Due Process
Campaign
Feb 2024

Free Speech for Speakers in Support of Palestine

The ACLU of Maryland will oppose unlawful efforts to shut down and chill non-discriminatory speech by Marylanders who are supportive of AMEMSA and other BIPOC communities whose views do not align with the government’s political stance on Gaza, Palestine more generally, and/or Israel.
Campaign
Aug 2022

Accountability for Police Killing Anton Black

Police officers on Maryland's Eastern Shore killed Anton Black, a 19-year-old, on the afternoon of September 15, 2018.
Campaign
Jan 2022

Uphold the Voting Rights Act in Baltimore County

Despite outspoken community concerns, in late December 2021, the Baltimore County Council passed, by unanimous vote, an unfair and racially discriminatory election plan. The Council plan clearly violates the Voting Rights Act.
Campaign
Mar 2021

Free the Vote: Let People Who Are Incarcerated Access the Ballot