Immigrants’ Rights

Many New Mexicans experience discrimination, hostility and civil rights violations of because of their suspected immigration status. As a result, protecting immigrants’ rights is a top priority for the ACLU of New Mexico.

southern border

Many New Mexicans experience discrimination, hostility and civil rights violations of because of their suspected immigration status. As a result, protecting immigrants’ rights is a top priority for the ACLU of New Mexico.

The ACLU is one of the leading advocates for the rights of immigrants, asylum seekers, and non-citizens in the country, challenging unconstitutional laws and practices and countering the myths upon which many of these laws are based.

Regardless of one’s views on U.S. immigration policy, the fundamental civil liberties protections of the Bill of Rights and the U.S. Constitution protect every person in this country—including non-citizens. The government can legitimately control its borders, but the power to exclude and deport people must be exercised fairly and consistently, subject to our constitutional norms and U.S. obligations under international law.

Additionally, we joined forces with the ACLU of Arizona, the ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties, the ACLU of Texas, and our team at the national office to form the Border Humanity Project. Together, we advocate for rebuilding asylum and demanding an end to indiscriminate immigration detention and abuses at the border. Our team consists of advocates, litigators, community leaders, and experts who are deeply engaged in taking action to welcome people seeking asylum with dignity and respect and stop the horrors of abuse in immigration detention. We can fight for transparency, accountability, and humane treatment of people.

Know Your Rights: Immigrants' Rights Resources:

Stay informed about our latest work in Immigrants' Rights.

Learn about recent Immigrants’ Rights issues affecting New Mexico below.

The Latest

Press Release
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ACLU of New Mexico Applauds Passage Of Key Civil Liberties Bills in the 2026 Legislative Session

As the 2026 legislative session comes to a close, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Mexico applauds partner organizations, community advocates, and many legislators for their work advancing civil liberties in New Mexico.
Press Release
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Governor Signs Immigrant Safety Act into Law

New Mexico Becomes National Leader in Protecting Immigrant Families
Issue Areas: Immigrants’ Rights
Press Release
ACLU of New Mexico Breaking News

New Mexico Senate Passes Immigrant Safety Act, Sending Historic Legislation to Governor's Desk

The New Mexico Senate today passed the Immigrant Safety Act, House Bill 9, sending the landmark legislation to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's desk for her signature.
Issue Areas: Immigrants’ Rights
Press Release
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New Mexico House Passes Landmark Immigrant Safety Act

The passage brings New Mexico one step closer to ending its involvement in the Trump administration's mass detention and deportation system.
Issue Areas: Immigrants’ Rights
Legislation
Feb 13, 2025

Immigrant Safety Act

Status: Failed
Position: Support