ACLU of the District of Columbia
LightNews LightNews
banner
aclu-dc.bsky.social
ACLU of the District of Columbia
@aclu-dc.bsky.social
1.4K followers 230 following 410 posts
We are devoted to ensuring free speech, equal rights, and other civil liberties in D.C. Press inquiries: media@acludc.org #DCStatehood
https://www.acludc.org/
Posts Replies Media Videos
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Judge Jia M. Cobb’s ruling yesterday to halt the president's deployment of National Guard troops to the District is just the start of restoring the power over D.C. where it belongs: with the people.

We will continue to fight for D.C. and we will continue to fight for democracy.
A quote graphic with a blue-green background and a statement in white text that reads: “President Trump’s effort to take over D.C. streets with National Guard troops is a brazen power grab that has created fear and eroded democracy in our nation’s capital.     Today's ruling helps defend simple, foundational principles of our democracy: the military should not be deployed against civilians, and We the People can govern ourselves. The over 700,000 people who live in D.C. are just like people who live in any other state, and we deserve local control over the officials who patrol our streets.    Judge Cobb’s ruling is not only about Washington, D.C. The Trump administration has been using D.C. as a testing ground to see what can be normalized here and implemented in other states. This ruling provides an important check on presidential power and makes it clear that when we defend D.C., we defend democracy.” 
November 21, 2025 at 9:39 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
We're building a District where people have an equal right to go about their lives without invasive, humiliating, or violent encounters with the criminal legal system regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, or disability.
A graphic with a light yellow backround and blue and red bold text at the top that reads: "Everyone deserves dignity, fairness, and an opprtunity to thrive." Below is a collage of a blue and white dual-tone image of a young girl playing with blocks set against a blue abstract shape. The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom left corner.
November 19, 2025 at 1:26 AM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Embodying public service, Deb Haaland has dedicated her career to building a more just and sustainable world. She's the very definition of a trailblazer—becoming the first Native American woman to lead a State Party, serve in Congress, and serve as a cabinet secretary.
A person stands in front of a van with the words “COLUMBUS WAS LOST” painted on the rear window. Below is a quote in large text: “It is Indigenous resilience and worldview that every government, country, and community can learn from so that we manage our lands, waters, and resources not just across budget years, but across generations.” Deb Haaland – 54th United States Secretary of the Interior. A Native American Heritage Month banner and ACLU logo appear below.
November 18, 2025 at 8:14 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Alice Wong dedicated her life to championing disability rights and building a more just and inclusive world. Her legacy will forever be an inspiration as we continue fighting for freedom, liberty, and justice for all in D.C.

Thank you, Alice. May you rest in peace and joy. 🕊️
A quote graphic featuring a photo of disability activist Alice Wong and light pink text overlayed a dark pink gradient that reads: "There is so much that able-bodied people could learn from the wisdom that often comes with disability." The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the top right corner.
November 17, 2025 at 9:55 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
The law might have tolerated government conduct of this sort a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. But in the here and now, the government doesn't get to decide if your protest is funny, and the government officials can’t punish you for making them the punchline.
November 14, 2025 at 9:19 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
“Building Safety Through Resources” recommends specific strategies and programs that D.C. lawmakers should implement to support families, youth, and people reentering communities after incarceration.
A quote graphic with a light yellow background and blue and red text that reads: “The safest communities are the ones with the most resources, not the most police. To keep people in D.C. safe during this presidential administration and beyond, our local leaders need to invest in reaching people with the resources they need when they need them most. —Alicia Yass, Supervising Policy Counsel, ACLU of the District of Columbia.” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom left corner.
November 13, 2025 at 3:02 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
NEW: Today, we released a report detailing how D.C. leaders can implement proven solutions that build safety and security through focusing on prevention and support, instead of over-relying on policing and jails. 🧵
A graphic with blue and white dual-tone photos of people in a garden and a family playing together side by side at the top. Below is white, blue, and red text against a light yellow background that reads: "New Report: Building Safety Through Resources: A Better Path to Public Safety in D.C. Published November 13, 2025." The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner.
November 13, 2025 at 3:00 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
President Trump's deployment of armed National Guard troops to D.C. doesn't make us safer. This blatant power grab is about creating fear and further eroding our democracy.

Let's be clear: if troops or federal agents violate our rights, they must be held accountable.
Dark purple graphic with an image of masked military troops and white text as a quote: "Us being out there is not sending a message other than clear provocation to our own populace." The quote is attributed to "An anonymous DC National Guardsman on President Trump's decision to deploy troops into the city."
November 13, 2025 at 11:23 AM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Our military relies on public trust that service members will uphold the Constitution and the rule of law, regardless of personal loyalties or political opinions. President Trump's deployment of troops to police civilians in D.C. and other major U.S. cities undermines that trust.
Blue graphic with white text that reads, "Military members swore an oath to defend the Constitution, not bend to the will of the president."
November 12, 2025 at 12:56 AM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
ICYMI: dissent is patriotic.
A graphic with a dark blue background and white and red text that reads: "Democracies don't function without dissent." Below is a collage of an image of a mass protest and a cut-out image of a bull-horn set against a red abstract shape. In the bottom left corner is the ACLU-D.C. logo.
November 10, 2025 at 10:39 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Sending troops onto American streets puts all our basic rights at risk. Sam O'Hara—a District resident who was handcuffed and detained after playing the "Imperial March" theme to protest troops in D.C.—has an important message to share during this critical moment: Stay resilient.
November 7, 2025 at 9:17 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Barbara Cameron dedicated her life to creating support networks for her Indigenous queer community in San Francisco. Her legacy inspires our work to build community safety and agency in D.C., protecting and advancing civil liberties and rights for everyone in the District.
Sepia-toned image of Barbara Cameron standing on a balcony, with quote: “It's important for us as Indian People, as we reclaim and revitalize our languages and traditions, to include the heritage and contributions of Indian lesbians and gay men.' Text identifies her as a two-spirit activist for Indigenous and queer rights. A Native American Heritage Month banner and ACLU logo appear below."
November 6, 2025 at 2:32 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
And despite the Trump administration’s attempts at fear and intimidation, make no mistake: everyone in D.C. has rights, regardless of who they are and their immigration status.
Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of ICE agents running horizontal across the top of the graphic. Below red and white text reads: “If you’re asked about your immigration status: Do not lie about your citizenship status, your name, or provide false documents. Generally, you have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status (or anything else). It’s important to note that if you invoke this right and/or do not have the proper papers, an immigration officer might detain you for longer to verify your citizenship status.” At the bottom of the image is the ACLU-DC graphic to the left and a red right-pointing arrow to the right. Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of an immigration visa running vertical along the right side of the graphic. To the left is white text that reads: “If you’re asked about your immigration status: If you are not a U.S. citizen, the law may require you to carry specific immigration documents for your specific immigration status and provide them when a government official requests your immigration papers. Official identification from a country besides the United States does not establish your right to be in the United States and may cause government officials to view you with greater suspicion.” At the bottom of the image is the ACLU-DC graphic to the left and a red right-pointing arrow to the right. Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of a client meeting with their lawyer running horizontal across the top of the graphic. Below red and white text reds: “If you’re asked about your immigration status: Carry with you evidence of having been in the U.S. for longer than two years, such as mail that you have received at your home address with a postmark or a signed lease as these may help reduce the risk of being put in a deportation process without the ability to argue your case. For more information about specific immigration statuses, and what documentation is required to be carried by a person with that status, you should consult an attorney.” The ACLU-DC is in the bottom left corner.
November 5, 2025 at 9:16 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
In deciding how to interact with law enforcement, federal agents, and military officers, make sure to prioritize your safety, even if you feel that you’re being treated unfairly or illegally.
Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of a National Guard troop in the DC metro running vertical along the right side of the graphic. To the left is white text that reads: “Always remain calm and never physically resist or obstruct law enforcement. Keep your hands visible. You may ask if you’re free to leave at any point in your interaction. Say, “Am I free to go?” If the answer is “yes,” you’re free to walk away. If the answer is no, you’ve been stopped and must remain where you are until you have been told that you’re free to go.” At the bottom of the image is the ACLU-DC graphic to the left and a red right-pointing arrow to the right. Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of a police officer stopping a woman in her car running horizontal across the top of the graphic. Below white text reads: “You don’t have to answer a government official's questions except if you’re stopped for certain traffic, parking, or pedestrian offenses, when you must provide your name and address if asked. If you don’t want to answer a question, say, “I want to remain silent.” Government officials cannot detain you without reasonable suspicion that you have or are about to commit a crime or are in the process of doing so.” At the bottom of the image is the ACLU-DC graphic to the left and a red right-pointing arrow to the right. Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of the tops of police cars running horizontal across the top of the graphic. Below white text reads: “Take mental notes about what’s happening—including on what occurred before you were stopped, what the official says and does while you’re stopped, and whether anyone is documenting what occurred—so you can tell a lawyer if you think your rights were violated. If an official asks to search you or your belongings, you have the right to say no, but do not obstruct access. The official may have lawful authority to conduct the search anyway. If the official begins conducting a search, say clearly: “I do not consent to a search.” At the bottom of the image is the ACLU-DC graphic to the left and a red right-pointing arrow to the right. Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of a person holding up their phone running vertical along the right side of the graphic. To the left is white text that reads: “Remember you don’t have to unlock your phone or give government officials your password without a warrant. For additional security, turn off biometric identification such as Face ID. No matter what uniform they wear, federal agents and military troops are bound by the Constitution, including our rights to peaceful assembly.” At the bottom of the image is the ACLU-DC graphic to the left and a red right-pointing arrow to the right.
November 5, 2025 at 9:13 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
With National Guard troops stationed in D.C. through at least February 2026, it's important to know your rights if you're stopped by law enforcement or military troops in the District. ⤵️
Graphic with black background and a red and black dual-tone image of a DC metropolitan police officer running horizontal across the top of the graphic. Below red and white text reads: “What to do when you’re stopped by law enforcement or national guard troops.” At the bottom of the image is the ACLU-DC graphic to the left and a red right-pointing arrow to the right.
November 5, 2025 at 9:11 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Poet and activist Andrea Gibson—like so many other LGBTQ+ people—understood intimately that existence itself is a political act, and carried that understanding into their writing, focusing on topics like on gender, queerness, social justice, life, and death.
Stylized black-and-white photo of poet and activist Andrea Gibson wearing a coat, t-shirt, and necklace. On the right side, in bold red and pink text, is their quote: “Personally, my process doesn’t look like me understanding my gender and then writing down what I understand. Instead I write about gender so I can understand who I am. It’s a constant exploration and I love that I don’t expect to reach a finish line with it, ever.” Below, in red text: “Andrea Gibson, Poet, activist.” The bottom right shows a red banner that reads “LGBTQ History Month,” and the bottom left features the red ACLU logo.
October 31, 2025 at 8:00 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
And remember: No matter what agency you’re dealing with—whether federal or local; whether law enforcement or the military—the Constitution constrains how government employees can treat you. 2/3
Bold black letters in all caps that read: “I want to remain silent” are highlighted in red and set against a black background. Below is white text that reads: “Remember: You have the right to remain silent in your home, in your car, at a checkpoint, at work, and anywhere else (though keep in mind the unique circumstances discussed in the prior slide, i.e., requests for your name and address in certain settings, and questions about your immigration status).” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner. Bold black letters in all caps that read: “I do not consent to a search” are highlighted in red and set against a black background. Below is white text that reads: “If you’re stopped by government officials while on the streets and they ask to search you or your belongings, you have the right to say no, but do not obstruct access. Specifically, you can say, “I do not consent to a search.” The official may have lawful authority to conduct the search anyway, but this statement will limit the officers’ authority to the greatest extent possible. If you’re stopped while in your car, whether at a checkpoint or in another circumstance, an official may ask to search your car. You can refuse by saying, “I do not consent to a search.” This will limit the official’s ability to conduct a search, though in some circumstances they may have legal authority to do so anyway.” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner. Bold black letters in all caps that read: “I want to speak with a lawyer” are highlighted in red and set against a black background. Below is white text that reads: “If you are under arrest, you may exercise your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer— no matter your citizenship or immigration status (though keep in mind the advice concerning questions about immigration status). If you want to invoke these rights, you should say “I want to remain silent” and “I want to speak with a lawyer” and then, refrain from answering any questions or signing any documents unless you have a lawyer present.” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner. Bold black letters in all caps that read: “I want to speak with a lawyer” are highlighted in red and set against a black background. Below is white text that reads: “The same principles generally apply if you are taken into immigration custody. However, unlike instances where you are arrested for a crime, if you are detained for an immigration violation, the government does not have to pay for an attorney to represent you. Still, the government must allow you to consult with an attorney if you can find one who will represent you; the government must also give you a list of low cost or free attorneys if you ask. If you are taken into immigration custody, you also have the right to contact your consulate or have an officer inform the consulate of your arrest.” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner.
October 29, 2025 at 5:08 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Encountering police, federal agents, or military troops in D.C.? At this critical moment, knowledge is power. Here are some phrases to use to exercise your civil rights in various situations. 1/3
Bold black letters in all caps that read: “Know Your Rights” are highlighted in red and set against a black background. Below is white text that reads: “Phrases to use.” At the bottom of the graphic is a black-and-white collage image of National Guard troops, a photo of a hand writing, a bullhorn, and a hand holding a protest sign with an open mouth, and white scribbles, all set against a red abstract shape. The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the top right corner. Bold black letters in all caps that read: “Am I free to go?” are highlighted in red and set against a black background. Below is white text that reads: “You can use this phrase if you’re on the streets or in public and you’re stopped by police, federal agents, or military troops. You may ask if you are free to leave at any point in your interaction. If the answer is “yes,” you are free to walk away. If the answer is no, you have been stopped and must remain where you are until you’ve been told that you are free to go. Government officials cannot detain you without at least reasonable suspicion that you have or are about to commit a crime or are in the process of doing so.” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner. Black letters in all caps that read: “I want to remain silent” highlighted in red against a black background. Below is white text that reads: “You don’t have to answer a government official's questions except if you’re stopped for certain traffic, parking, or pedestrian offenses, when you must provide your name and address if asked. If you don’t want to answer a question, say, “I want to remain silent.” There are additional considerations worth keeping in mind if you are not a citizen. Generally, you have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status (or anything else). If you are not a U.S. citizen, the law may require you to carry specific immigration documents for your specific immigration status and provide them when a government official requests your immigration papers. If you invoke your right to remain silent and/or do not have the proper papers, an immigration officer might detain you for longer to verify your citizenship status.”
October 29, 2025 at 5:07 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
When the U.S. accepted the Statue of Liberty 139 years ago, we also accepted her call to care for the tired, the poor, those yearning to be free. The ACLU-D.C. remains committed to this call by protecting the civil liberties and rights, and advancing justice for all in D.C.
A graphic with a light blue background and a dark blue and white dual tone image of the Statue of Liberty with dark blue text that reads: "Liberty and justice for all." A red line is underneath the word "all" to add emphasis. The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom left corner.
October 28, 2025 at 10:37 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Considered a founder of the Trans Rights Movement, Sir Lady Java was an LA-raised drag queen, comedian, exotic dancer, & so much more. A steadfast advocate for protecting trans rights & drag, she even went to court with the ACLU to fight to protect her trans & LGBTQ+ community.
Stylized black-and-white photo of Sir Lady Java, a Black transgender woman with voluminous hair, wearing a sparkly fringed outfit and choker necklace, holding one arm up. On the right side, in bold red and pink text, is her quote: “There was nothing to help us. No one cared. So I had to care, and I kept on, kept on and kept on.” Below, in red text: “SIR LADY JAVA, Transgender rights activist, drag icon.” The bottom right shows a red banner that reads “LGBTQ History Month,” and the bottom left features the red ACLU logo.
October 27, 2025 at 6:21 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Let's make one thing very clear: The right to read is protected under the First Amendment, and that right doesn't go away in prison.
Blue graphic with bold white and yellow text that reads: “Jails and prisons ban more books than all public schools and libraries combined. Incarceration shouldn’t strip us of our right to read.” The word “combined” is highlighted in yellow. The image includes two abstract shapes: one with red jail bars and another showing a stack of books in yellow and blue. The bottom left features the ACLU logo in yellow.
October 24, 2025 at 4:10 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
BREAKING NEWS: Today, on behalf of D.C. resident Sam O’Hara, we’re suing an Ohio National Guard member and four Metropolitan Police Department officers for violating his constitutional rights and D.C. law—simply for playing a song. 🧵
A graphic with a black background and two glowing lines running vertical from top to bottom, one blue and one red, to represent light sabers. A screenshot from a case filed on behalf of Sam O’Hara by the ACLU-D.C., suing an Ohio National Guard member and four Metropolitan Police Department officers for violating his constitutional rights and D.C. law. The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner. A graphic with a black background and two glowing lines running vertical from top to bottom, one blue and one red, to represent light sabers and white text that reads: “The government doesn’t get to decide whether or not your protest is funny.” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom right corner.
October 23, 2025 at 2:05 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Starting this week, Capital Area Food Bank is providing free food assistance to furloughed federal workers & contractors struggling to make ends meet because of the government shutdown. Simply show your government work I.D. & stock up on shelf-stable items & fresh produce.
A graphic with a light orange background and blue text that reads: "Where and when to pick up food: Tuesdays 12pm — 2 pm No Limits Outreach Ministries 7721 Barlowe Rd, Hyattsville, Maryland 20785 Wednesdays 10 am — 11:30 am So What Else 6116 Executive Blvd, North Bethesda, Maryland 20852 Fridays 11 am — 1 pm United Community 7511 Fordson Rd, Alexandria, Virginia 22306 11 am — 1:30 pm Urban Outreach 5343 C St SE, D.C. 20019 Saturdays 1pm — 2:30 pm LindaBen Foundation 10739 Tucker St, Beltsville, Maryland 20705" The ACLU-DC logo is in the bottom right corner
October 21, 2025 at 1:15 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
A key organizer of the Civil Rights Movement and activist for LGBTQ+ rights & economic justice, Bayard Rustin championed the importance of we, the people’s participation in forging a just democracy. We all have a duty to carry on the work of building a better world for everyone.
Black-and-white photo of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin seated at a desk in a suit and tie, looking contemplative. On the right side, in large pink text, is his quote: “When an individual is protesting society's refusal to acknowledge his dignity as a human being, his very act of protest confers dignity on him.” Below, in white and pink text: "Bayard Rustin, Civil rights activist, organizer for the 1963 March on Washington." The bottom right features a red banner reading “LGBTQ History Month,” and the bottom left includes the red ACLU logo.
October 20, 2025 at 5:40 PM
aclu-dc.bsky.social
Tens of thousands of people took to D.C. streets to reject Pres. Trump's abuses of power. Today, tomorrow & every day after we must all continue working together to make one thing very clear: power belongs to the people & we the people *will* hold the people in power accountable.
A graphic with a black background and a quote in yellow and white text from ACLU-D.C. executive director Monica Hopkins that reads: "“President Trump is abusing the power of the presidency. Federal agents and National Guard troops have flooded our streets, setting up check points, hauling away our neighbors, and disrupting everyday life. This power grab by the Trump Administration is not about safety – it’s about creating fear and further eroding our democracy.” The ACLU-D.C. logo is in the bottom left corner.
October 18, 2025 at 10:29 PM