Interning at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is more than just a start into the world of law, public policy, or social justice. It’s an opportunity to be part of a historic, mission-driven organization that has spent over a century defending and advancing civil liberties in the United States.
For students and recent graduates who are passionate about protecting freedom, equity, and human rights, an ACLU internship can be a deeply meaningful experience—one that goes beyond tasks and resumes to touch real lives and real causes.
Glance at IHG Internships
A Mission-Driven Opportunity
The ACLU stands for the American Civil Liberties Union, and it has been at the forefront of critical civil rights movements since its founding in 1920. From fighting segregation and censorship to defending LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive freedom, immigrants’ rights, and the right to protest, the organization continues to play a pivotal role in shaping America’s legal and social landscape. Interning with the ACLU means actively participating in that ongoing mission.
Interns at the ACLU don’t just watch change happen—they help make it happen. The organization takes care to involve interns in substantive work, whether they are assisting with legal research, organizing community events, drafting communications, or supporting policy advocacy. There’s a strong emphasis on learning, collaboration, and contribution.
Different Internship Options
The ACLU offers a broad range of internships across different departments. These include:
- Legal Internships: Ideal for law students, these internships focus on constitutional law, litigation strategies, and case preparation. Legal interns may work on briefs, examine case law, or support ongoing lawsuits on issues like voting rights, freedom of speech, or criminal justice reform.
- Communications Internships: Interns interested in media, writing, and public outreach help craft narratives around key issues. This might involve drafting blog posts, press releases, or social media content that educates and engages the public.
- Advocacy and Policy Internships: Interns in this area help track legislation, research policy impacts, and support campaigns aimed at influencing lawmakers and public opinion.
- Technology and Privacy Internships: With a growing focus on digital rights, privacy, and surveillance, the ACLU also offers roles for those interested in how technology intersects with civil liberties.
- Operations and Administration: For those interested in nonprofit management, finance, or human resources, internships within the administrative backbone of the ACLU offer a view into how a large, nationwide organization is run.
Locations and Availability
The ACLU has a national office as well as many state-level affiliates. Internships are offered across both levels, depending on the needs of the particular office. The National ACLU is headquartered in New York City, but interns might also find positions in Washington, D.C., or in state affiliates like ACLU of Northern California, ACLU of Texas, or ACLU of Michigan.
Most internships are offered on a semester basis—Spring, Summer, and Fall—and availability may vary. Some positions are full-time, while others are part-time and can often be completed alongside academic schedules. Increasingly, the ACLU is offering remote internships, making it possible for students around the country to participate.
Paid and Unpaid Positions
The ACLU offers both paid and unpaid internship opportunities. While some positions may offer stipends or hourly compensation, others may be unpaid but eligible for academic credit. The organization is actively working to expand access by increasing the number of paid positions, aiming to reduce economic barriers for students who wish to enter public interest fields.
What the ACLU Looks For
Internships at the ACLU are competitive, and the organization seeks candidates who are not only academically capable but also deeply motivated by civil rights and justice. Passion, commitment, and curiosity often matter as much as experience.
Successful applicants typically have:
- A strong interest in civil liberties and public interest work
- Excellent research, writing, and communication skills
- A track record of advocacy, volunteerism, or leadership
- The ability to work collaboratively with people from diverse backgrounds
Law students applying for legal internships are often asked to submit writing samples and should have some understanding of constitutional law.
A Journey That Changed Everything
ACLU internships can be life-changing. Interns often describe the experience as empowering, eye-opening, and energizing. They gain not only skills and knowledge but also a deeper understanding of the systems that affect people’s rights and lives.
Beyond technical work, interns become part of a culture that values inclusion, equity, and resilience. They connect with mentors, participate in discussions, and often leave with a renewed commitment to justice, whether they pursue careers in law, public policy, education, or activism.
Official Website
Read more about it on the official website.