Press Releases

ACLU-VA's Statement on Gov. Youngkin's Actions on Facial Recognition Technology

The governor amended a controversial bill that would lift the ban on the use of facial recognition technology without a warrant by local law enforcement agencies. The governor’s amendments did nothing to address the many concerns voiced by a broad range of advocates.
Issue Areas: First Amendment Rights

ACLU-VA Statement on Gov. Youngkin’s Signing of Classroom Censorship Legislation

Gov. Youngkin signed into law Senate Bill 656 (SB 656), which would give parents the authority to prevent their children from learning material deemed “sexually explicit content.” While the bill is lauded by some as parental choice, its true intent and impact is classroom censorship.

ACLU-VA Sends Joint Letter Opposing Facial Recognition Technology

In principle, we oppose any use of facial recognition software by law enforcement. When used by police in criminal investigations, facial recognition technology can, and has, led to wrongful arrests and civil rights violations.

Settlement Agreement Reached in Religious Freedom, Solitary Confinement Lawsuit Against Virginia Department of Corrections

The ACLU of Virginia announced today that a settlement agreement was reached in Burke v. Clarke, a federal lawsuit on behalf of Randy Burke, a practicing Rastafarian who was put in solitary confinement for over five years for refusing to cut his hair.

ACLU-VA Urges Removal of Fencing Around Lee Monument

The ACLU of Virginia has significant concerns that the fencing erected around the Lee Monument grounds is unnecessarily infringing on the public’s First Amendment rights while these legal battles play out in the courtroom.
Issue Areas: First Amendment Rights

Court Fails to Hold Richmond Police Accountable for Violence against Protesters

The court dismissed the lawsuit to hold police accountable for violating protesters' rights, denying the protesters a trial on this matter.