Message from the Executive Director

The year 2021 began with the promise of change. But just six days in, it became clear that cynical forces intent on damaging the integrity of our elections, maintaining racial injustice, and rolling back reproductive autonomy were gaining momentum in our country.

These threats to our democracy and liberty highlight the importance of the ACLU. Together with you, the ACLU is on the frontlines of the movement to defend, restore, and strengthen civil rights and civil liberties across the country—starting here in Massachusetts.

As you’ll see and hear in this report, your ACLU is a strong and steady force for equal justice under the law. Using our powerful combination of strategic litigation, legislative advocacy, and people power, we fight for law and policy reforms that advance our vision of a world in which all people are safe and free. In Massachusetts, we have expanded voting rights, secured and improved abortion access, and protected the privacy rights of Bay Staters—and we’re just getting started.

Please join us on this journey: Learn more about our recent civil rights successes, meet our remarkable staff and partners, and join our work to make 2022 a historic year for civil rights and civil liberties in Massachusetts and across the nation.

Carol Rose, Executive Director, ACLU of Massachusetts
2021 Highlights
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In Communities

Working with grassroots partners and communities across the Commonwealth, the ACLU harnessed the power of We the People to effect change and advance the cause of justice.

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In the State House

Last year, we celebrated the passage of major new bills on police reform and abortion access, and pressed lawmakers to go further in protecting and expanding civil liberties.

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In the Courts

In 2021, we secured major legal victories in areas such as immigrants' rights, racial justice, and criminal legal reform.

Protecting Immigrants' Rights

Q&A

Defending Free Speech

Q&A with Ruth Bourquin, senior and managing attorney at the ACLU of Massachusetts.

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Fighting for Reproductive Freedom

Q&A with Nicki Nichols Gamble, chair of the board of directors at the ACLU Foundation of Massachusetts and Jessie Rossman, staff attorney at the ACLU of Massachusetts.

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Keeping People Safe and Free

Q&A with Kevin Prussia, chair-elect of the board of directors at the ACLU Foundation of Massachusetts.

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Protecting Privacy

Q&A with Kade Crockford, director of the Technology for Liberty Program at the ACLU of Massachusetts.

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Securing Democracy

Q&A with Gavi Wolfe, legislative director at the ACLU of Massachusetts.

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Funding Our Future