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
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.
Our Values
Civil Rights and Liberties
We value civil rights and civil liberties for everyone, especially the most vulnerable members of our community who have been historically and systematically deprived of them.
Equity, Equality, and Justice
We value equity for all people, and equal justice under law.
Dignity
We value the inherent dignity of all people.
Inclusion
We value inclusion and the right of everyone to participate in our democracy, including those with unpopular beliefs.
Member and Community Engagement
We value our members and supporters, who make our work possible, and our community partners, who are our allies in doing our work.
Diversity and Teamwork
We value an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace characterized by honesty, excellence, respect, professionalism, and teamwork.
All Voices
We value the voices, knowledge, and leadership of those who have been historically and systematically excluded and disenfranchised.
WE DEFEND AND PROMOTE THESE CIVIL LIBERTIES AND VALUES THROUGH:
LITIGATION
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.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
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.
LOBBYING
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 26 June, 2020
OTHER INFORMATION
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