News & Commentary

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New Mexico Must Keep Its Promise on Civil Rights

Five years ago, New Mexico made a promise. When our state passed the New Mexico Civil Rights Act, we declared that the rights guaranteed by the New Mexico Constitution meant something.

Latest Press Release

Jul 1, 2026

Billboards Celebrate NM Civil Rights Act Fifth Anniversary

To commemorate the five-year anniversary of the New Mexico Civil Rights Act (NMCRA), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Mexico has placed five billboards praising the landmark law across Albuquerque.
A billboard that says "The NM Civil Rights Act turns five. Justice never gets old" with a "Welcome to New Mexico" sign on it.

More from the Press

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Stay informed on civil rights issues. Discover our latest actions and updates in the Press Release section.

A graphic showing hot air ballons, a person holding their arms out towards a sunrise, and a sunset with painted clouds behind a silhouetted road sign.

The Case for Investing in New Mexico's Youth

The ACLU of New Mexico, along with partners, is prioritizing holistic solutions in juvenile justice — because we know these are the approaches that are safest and most effective for our communities.

Oct 17, 2017

Smoke, Mirrors and Very High Profits: For the bail bond industry, crime often pays

The only thing the bail industry protects is its bottom line. Bringing in about $2 billion a year nationally, its wealth and political influence is vast.

By Paul Haidle

Photo of the outside of a bail bond office at night time
Sep 22, 2017

Photo Essay: Changing the conversation around incarceration through art

We partnered with local artist Eric Martinez and Warehouse 508 to bring renowned muralist Emanuel Martinez to Albuquerque to paint in 508 Mural Fest. Both formerly-incarcerated artists collaborate on a mural that seeks to reduce the negative stigma around incarceration and inspire hope for change .

Art Show
Jul 20, 2017

How Misdemeanor Charges Turned into a Death Sentence for One Army Veteran

Douglas lost his freedom because he lacked the money to post bond. He lost list life because Cibola County Detention Center didn’t think his life was worth the cost of a hospital bill.

By Katie Hoeppner

Fellow inmates tend to Douglas Edmisten as he lays on the ground in pain.
Jun 07, 2017

Sessions and Martinez: Cut from the Same Cloth

Preaching Public Safety While Putting Our Communities in Harm's Way

By Katie Hoeppner

Photo of Attorney General Jeff Sessions next to New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez