About Us

About

The ACLU of Massachusetts protects and expands civil rights and civil liberties while fighting for a more equitable tomorrow. We are working to create a society where all people enjoy freedom, opportunity, and dignity, with equal protection under the law.

A group of people in ACLU gear rallying together at the third Boston No Kings March on March 28 2026

Defending Democracy

We’ve been defending democracy as a nonprofit, nonpartisan legal advocacy organization for over a century. Our doors first opened in 1920 — the same year the national ACLU was founded. We were the first state affiliate in the ACLU network, which now has offices and advocates in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C.

We are tireless advocates in the courts, in the legislature, online, and in the streets.

Mission

For more than 100 years, the ACLU of Massachusetts has worked toward a more perfect union. Our goal is to uphold the promises of our state and federal constitutions while expanding the reach of their guarantees so that everyone in the Commonwealth and the nation may enjoy the privileges and responsibilities of a democratic society.

Volunteer and other observers in a courthouse

Safeguarding Rights

As a nonpartisan organization, we are dedicated to operating without fear or favor — putting principle over popularity. We safeguard everyone's rights by taking legal action in the courts, advocating for law reform at the Massachusetts State House, and providing public education and civic engagement opportunities directly in our communities.

We are fighting for a world where our laws and our courts work in the best interests of the people. And we know that it takes all of us to make democracy a reality. For this reason, we hope you will support our mission by learning your rights and getting involved in local advocacy today.

Values

We’ll say it again: we believe in democracy, a governing system built “of the people, by the people, for the people.” We are strong advocates of People Power and celebrate that it takes everyone to create a more just society.

SEIU Immigrants Rights Rally on June 9 2025 with people holding ACLU Massachusetts and Hands off Our Neighbors signs

Holding Government Accountable

We proudly hold our government to the highest level of public accountability. To maintain our independence, we never accept government funding. We also never charge our clients for legal representation.

Generous support from individuals like you makes it possible for us to keep fighting for everyone’s rights.

Education is also central to our values. We firmly believe that everyone has a right to nonpartisan resources that will allow them to participate fully in civic life. That’s why we offer free Know Your Rights materials and Advocates Academy trainings, and why we partner with community organizations to bring free civic education directly to Massachusetts neighborhoods.

We are deeply committed to advancing equal rights and equitable treatment for all people in the Commonwealth. Check out our Issues page to see this principle in action!