Racial Justice

The ACLU of Maryland aims to preserve and extend constitutional and statutory rights to persons who have historically been discriminated against on the basis of race. We have also assumed the additional charge of helping Maryland overcome the stains of a history of legal segregation that manifests itself in structural and institutional racism that still exists. That legacy expresses itself in rural areas like the Eastern Shore as well as in Baltimore City, where historic racism has contributed to a concentration of people with low income within a densely populated urban setting now undergoing economic transition.

Freddy Gray mural

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Because Black Lives Matter, the ACLU of Maryland works to end racism and oppression against Black people.

The ACLU of Maryland knows that Black people deserve to always have their whole selves and voices considered and valued in the laws, policies, and practices of our institutions, particularly in our government.

Read our statement


REPARATIONS FOR SLAVERY NOW

We will never achieve racial justice in America if this country does not examine the impact of slavery and its legacy – and make strides toward achieving reparatory justice.
Reparations are about acknowledging the damages inflicted on Black Americans through enslavement and post-emancipation exclusionary polices; repair, healing, respect, and restoring Black dignity and reconciliation, so that we can walk together to create a more just and humane society.

The Latest

Press Release
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Community Leaders and Advocates to Host Press Conference Urging Fair Redistricting in Baltimore County

The coalition is calling on the Commission to adopt a legally compliant and community-driven “3-1-5” map that ensures fair representation for Black and Brown residents across the county.
Press Release
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Family Members, ACLU Hail Maryland Audit, Urge Governor to Include Community in Medical Examiner Task Force

Audit confirms decades-long pattern of evidence suppression by Maryland Office of Chief Medical Examiner in police killings of Anton Black, Tyrone West, and others.
Press Release
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Maryland Enacts Second Look Act, Offering a Path to Reconsider Long Prison Sentences

Maryland officially enacted the Second Look Act (HB 853), an important step to giving incarcerated individuals sentenced as emerging adults a meaningful opportunity to seek sentence modification after demonstrating their rehabilitation and transformation.
Press Release
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ACLU of Maryland and Advocates Urge Senate to Pass the Second Look Act (HB 853)

The ACLU of Maryland is calling on state legislators to vote in favor of the Maryland Second Look Act (HB 853)
Court Case
Jul 03, 2025

Wicomico County NAACP et al. v Wicomico County et al

Court Case
Jul 03, 2025

Justice for Korryn and Kodi Gaines

Court Case
Jul 03, 2025

Caroline County NAACP et al v Federalsburg

Court Case
Dec 21, 2022

Baltimore County NAACP et al v. Baltimore County et al

A group of Baltimore County voters filed a federal lawsuit, Baltimore County NAACP et al. v. Baltimore County et al., challenging the racially discriminatory and unlawful redistricting plan approved by the Baltimore County Council.