ACLU's Historical and Ongoing Efforts in Defending Civil Liberties

What's Happening?

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) was formed in 1920 in response to the 'Palmer Raids' during the Red Scare, which targeted suspected radical leftists. The ACLU has since been involved in numerous landmark cases, including the Scopes Monkey Trial and Brown v. Board of Education. The organization defends free speech, even in controversial cases such as the Skokie march by a neo-Nazi group. Today, the ACLU continues to address issues like affirmative action, gay rights, and mass surveillance under the Patriot Act. It takes on approximately 6,000 court cases annually and has over 1.6 million members.

Why It's Important?

The ACLU's work is vital in maintaining the balance between government authority and individual freedoms. By challenging unconstitutional actions and advocating for marginalized groups, the ACLU ensures that civil liberties are protected. Its involvement in high-profile cases and policy debates shapes the legal landscape and public discourse in the U.S. The organization's efforts to uphold the First Amendment and other constitutional rights are essential in preserving democratic values and preventing government overreach.