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The ACLU’s Role in Safeguarding Civil Liberties

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Statement on ICE detention in New Jersey since Trump took office.

Amol Sinha, Executive Director of the ACLU of New Jersey, joined us to discuss the work of the ACLU-NJ on civil rights, criminal justice reform, and other pressing issues, including women’s reproductive rights, free speech, and immigration. Below is Amol’s statement regarding ICE detentions in New Jersey since Trump took office.

With New Jersey set to elect a new governor in 2025, state policies are poised to shift—and polls have shown that immigration, ranked as the second biggest concern for residents after the economy, will play a significant role. As highlighted in our interview, some emerging policies targeting immigration not only affect immigrants but could also compromise YOUR personal information and rights.

Tune in to this important conversation to learn how the ACLU-NJ is fighting for justice for all—regardless of political affiliation.

ACLU New Jersey
ACLU NJ Know Your Rights
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[00:01:08] Free speech protection by ACLU.
[00:04:17] Growing up in New Jersey.
[00:09:07] Criminal legal reform in New Jersey.
[00:12:30] Decarceration during public health crisis.
[00:18:27-00:18:38] Immigrant Trust Act and protections.
[00:20:14] Gubernatorial candidates and immigrant protection.
[00:25:43] Nationwide abortion ban concerns.
[00:27:02] Right to an abortion.
[00:33:16] Join the work for justice.
[00:34:38] Civic engagement and activism.
[00:39:29] New Jersey’s unique grit and pride.

Amol Sinha Statement on Recent ICE Raids in New Jersey

1/28/2024

“Over the past several days, we’ve seen an increase in the number of reports of ICE in our communities, including a raid in Newark where several people were arrested. The Trump administration is threatening our fundamental constitutional rights, including equal protection under the law and due process, putting our families, friends, neighbors and communities in harm’s way. We cannot stand idly by while their protections are stripped away.

In the face of attacks on our rights and our communities, the ACLU-NJ is unabashed in our efforts to defend the most vulnerable among us by holding ICE accountable for any constitutional violations, advocating for humane policies from state and local leaders, and providing Know Your Rights resources for people who may come into contact with immigration officials. These resources are available on our website in English and Spanish.” – Amol Sinha, Executive Director, ACLU NJ

ACLU Suggested Ways to Get Involved

Participate in Know Your Rights Trainings: Organize or attend community events to learn about your rights and how to protect them.
Support Organizations: Donate to organizations that align with your values and support civil rights, such as the ACLU.
Engage in Activism: Call your lawmakers to express your support for progressive policies and civil rights initiatives.
Stay Informed About Legislation: Keep an eye on important bills, such as the Immigrant Trust Act, and advocate for their passage.
Volunteer: If you have legal skills, consider partnering with law firms on pro bono work or look for job postings at organizations like the ACLU.
Participate in Local Events: Get involved in community organizing and public education efforts related to civil liberties and rights.
Vote: Pay attention to gubernatorial candidates and their positions on civil rights issues, and make your voice heard at the polls.

Interview Summary

Exploring Civil Liberties in New Jersey: An Interview with Amol Sinha

Introduction

Hosts Janette and Rachel introduce the episode featuring Amol Sinha, Executive Director of ACLU New Jersey.
Overview of ACLU New Jersey’s focus areas:
Democracy and civil engagement
Gender, sexuality, and reproductive freedom
Immigration rights
Racial and economic justice
Speech, privacy, and technology
Criminal legal system reform

Free Speech and Bipartisanship

Discussion on ACLU’s commitment to protecting free speech for all, regardless of political affiliation.
Example: ACLU defended a New Jersey woman’s right to display a controversial sign against President Biden.
Emphasis on ACLU’s bipartisan approach, protecting rights for everyone.

Amol Sinha’s Background

Amol Sinha shares his role at ACLU New Jersey, leading a team focused on constitutional rights.
Personal background: Grew up in Lawrence, New Jersey, and has a history of working in legal reform and advocacy.

Growth of ACLU New Jersey

Significant growth in the organization since Sinha’s tenure began in 2017:
More than doubled in size and nearly tripled in budget.
Expanded teams in communications, policy, and legal departments.
ACLU New Jersey is now tackling more issues than ever before.

Criminal Legal Reform

ACLU New Jersey’s leadership in criminal legal reform, aiming to reduce mass incarceration by 50%.
Involvement in cannabis legalization as part of racial justice efforts.
Response to COVID-19: Advocated for the rights of incarcerated individuals during the pandemic.
Successful passage of the Public Health Emergency Credit, reducing prison population by over 9,000.

Clemency Project

Introduction of the Clemency Project to encourage Governor Murphy to use clemency as a decarceration tool.
Focus on specific categories for clemency, including survivors of domestic violence and individuals affected by trial penalties.
Recent success: Three women released from prison after decades due to clemency actions.

Immigration Rights

Discussion on the Immigrant Trust Act,, aimed at protecting immigrant communities from federal enforcement.
Importance of local law enforcement not cooperating with federal immigration actions.
Call for gubernatorial candidates to address immigrant rights in the upcoming election.

Challenges Ahead

Concerns about potential federal actions under a Trump administration, including mass deportation and attacks on civil rights.
ACLU’s readiness to challenge unconstitutional actions through litigation.

Importance of Civic Engagement

Encouragement for listeners to stay active in civic matters, including contacting lawmakers and participating in community events.
Emphasis on the need for public support for civil rights organizations.

Personal Insights from Amol Sinha

Sinha shares his stress relief methods, including family time and dance parties.
Expresses pride in working for an organization that aligns with his values.

Love for New Jersey

Sinha highlights the resilience and diversity of New Jerseyans.
Affection for New Jersey pizza, specifically recommending Pizza Terminal in Verona.

Conclusion

Our interview with Amol Sinha provided a wealth of information about the ACLU’s work and the importance of civil liberties in New Jersey. As we approach the upcoming elections, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed and engaged in the issues that matter most. We encourage everyone to support the ACLU and other organizations fighting for justice and equality in our communities.

Thank you for joining us in this important conversation, and we hope you continue to advocate for a more just and equitable society.