Free Speech

Stylized image of a group of people at a protest or rally.

Freedom of speech is protected under the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights and is guaranteed to everyone living in the United States. Since 1920, the ACLU has been committed to the defense and preservation of this fundamental right.

Recently, ACLU-NM represented clients whose right to speak was suppressed in open city commission meetings, filed suit against sheriff’s deputies who coerced false confessions from witnesses and represented anti-war demonstrators who felt that the police suppressed their right to protest government actions.

Though many of us take this right for granted, free speech comes under attack on a daily basis making the work ACLU-NM does to protect free speech vital and ongoing.

Learn more about our recent cases related to free speech below.

The Latest

News & Commentary
Photo of Leon Howard

A New Phase in Civil Liberties Advocacy: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going

For decades, the ACLU of New Mexico has worked alongside communities to defend civil liberties and expand the promise of the constitution. Today, with fundamental freedoms under intensifying attack and the stakes for our democracy higher than ever, that work has never been more urgent.
Resource
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Press Release
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Peaceful Protester Sues City of Moriarty and Torrance County for Unlawful Arrest and Detention

A 70-year-old woman, unlawfully arrested and detained at Torrance County Detention Facility (TCDF) for 72 hours after peacefully protesting outside a gun show at Moriarty Civic Center, sued the City of Moriarty and Torrance County Monday morning.
Issue Areas: Free Speech
News & Commentary
A photo of Rita Padilla-Gutiérrez standing in front of her sign that reads: "Trump, racist, rapist, not my president"

More Than a Yard Sign: Fighting for Free Speech in Tomé, New Mexico

When Rita Padilla-Gutiérrez posted anti-Trump signs in her yard, Valencia County threatened her with criminal prosecution at the urging of a pro-Trump county commissioner.
Court Case
Nov 19, 2021

Clifton White v. Padilla, Catanach, Langston, Herrera, Tafoya Lucero, Liddel, Ortiz

Court Case
Aug 29, 2016

Mackie v. New Mexico Public Education Department

Court Case
Apr 27, 2016

Seymour v. Albuquerque