Promoting Equality
We should all be free to live openly as ourselves. The NYCLU challenges systemic racism, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia, and bias in state and local laws, policies, and practices, and we advance protections for communities being targeted.
By the Numbers
The median income of white households in New York is nearly 15 times that of Black households.
Over one million New Yorkers identify as LGBTQ+, with the largest population in the country residing in New York City.
Each night New York detains nearly 400 immigrants in local jails for civil immigration violations.
Campaigns
We’re challenging power in the courts, the state house, city hall, local offices, the streets, and more. Take action on some of today’s most important fights by exploring our major campaigns.
Know Your Rights
You have rights while protesting, attending school, accessing health care, voting, and more. Empower yourself by learning more about your rights, how to exercise them, and what to do when they are violated.
Ideas
Get the latest insights, analysis, and stories from our experts on the fight for justice in New York. Read our commentary, listen to our podcast, and explore our reports on the latest issues affecting New Yorkers.
Policy
Whether at the town council or the state capitol, we fight for laws and policies that advance justice and liberty. With offices across New York and a major presence in Albany, we push lawmakers and leaders, evaluate proposed legislation, and draft justice-forward bills. Explore our policy memos, testimonies, comments, and more.
Court Cases
When New Yorkers’ rights are under attack, we file suit. Our casework in state and federal courts delivers justice for our clients, advances legal understandings of civil rights and liberties in our state, and protects the most vulnerable New Yorkers. Explore our case history to learn more.