About Us

Founded in 1952 as the Minnesota Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Minnesota continues to promote, protect, and extend the civil liberties and civil rights of people in Minnesota through litigation, lobbying, and community engagement.

Our vision for our state and country is one that fulfills the promise of the Minnesota and United States Constitutions to protect the civil rights and liberties of everyone.

We are especially mindful of the need to protect the interests of people who are disfavored or marginalized. The ACLU of Minnesota is nonpartisan, defending the civil liberties of everyone, regardless of their politics.

Championing civil rights, civil liberties, and free expression, including the rights to dissent, religious liberty, and of a free press.

Committing to equity, equal justice, and addressing historical and current discrimination through a comprehensive understanding of history and ongoing inequities.

Recognizing the inherent dignity of every individual, approaching work with empathy, and actively serving the needs of clients, impacted communities, and allies.

Advocating for inclusive participation in democracy, emphasizing voting rights, equal access to political power, and respect for bodily autonomy and reproductive choices.

Valuing members, supporters, and community partners, prioritizing collaboration, and actively reaching out to historically and systematically excluded voices.

Embracing diversity, promoting teamwork and transparency, and valuing the unique lived experiences of everyone, especially those historically excluded and disenfranchised.

We protect your civil rights by selecting, negotiating, and trying cases with the potential to establish legal precedent, broaden interpretation, and strengthen your civil liberties. We are supported by volunteer attorneys who donate their time and expertise to our cause.

Educating and engaging the public is key to our mission. We seek to educate Minnesotans about their civil liberties by providing schools with educational materials, by speaking in public on civil liberties, and by mobilizing individuals to personally advocate for their rights.

By drafting effective legislation and testifying on bills with civil liberties implications, we ensure that the government does not succeed in infringing on your rights.

Updated March 18, 2024

American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota Foundation

501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization

EIN: 41-6050012

American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota

501(c)4 Nonprofit Organization

EIN: 47-4484602