Fall 2026 Legal Intern, Racial Justice Program

About the role#

The Racial Justice Program (RJP) at the ACLU is seeking a legal intern for the Fall 2026 term. This program focuses on challenging racial discrimination and policies that disproportionately impact communities of color, including work in health equity, education, housing, indigenous justice, and economic justice. This position is unpaid and must be completed for course credit.

What you'll do#

• Conduct legal and factual research to support ongoing litigation, investigations, and advocacy.
• Review and code discovery productions.
• Produce and edit memos, research reports, and drafts of briefing.
• Participate in team meetings.
• Embed values of equity, inclusion, and belonging into all work, policy applications, and organizational practices.

What you'll need#

• Current enrollment in law school, with completion of the first year prior to the start of the internship.
• Excellent research, writing, and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to public interest law, civil liberties, and racial justice.
• Initiative to see projects through to completion.
• Commitment to the mission of the ACLU.

Location & details#

• Location: New York City, New York (Remote or Hybrid options available).
• Term: Fall 2026 (12 consecutive weeks).
• Time Commitment: Part-time (10, 15, or 20 hours per week).
• Start Dates: September 8 or September 21, 2026.
• Compensation: Unpaid; must be tied to formal education via academic credit.