About the role#
The Human Rights Program at the ACLU focuses on holding the U.S. government accountable to its international human rights obligations. The program works to strengthen democratic institutions and values while reinforcing the rule of law. Interns work under the supervision of the Program Director to support domestic and international advocacy efforts in areas such as immigrants' rights, criminal law reform, and racial justice.
What you'll do#
- Conduct legal and policy research.
- Draft memoranda, affidavits, and briefs.
- Research prospects for new litigation, including factual and legal claims.
- Draft materials for public education and human rights documentation.
- Prepare materials for advocacy before regional and international bodies.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a law school program, with 1L year completed before the start date.
- Strong research, writing, and communication skills.
- Organizational skills and the ability to work both independently and in a team.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word and Excel.
- Initiative to manage projects through to completion.
- A demonstrated commitment to the mission of the ACLU and to diversity within the office.
- Knowledge of the human rights framework, the international human rights system, or issues related to immigration and the criminal legal system is a plus.
Location & details#
- This internship is based in New York, NY, with remote or hybrid options available.
- The term is for Winter 2027, spanning 12 consecutive weeks.
- Candidates must be based in the U.S. for the duration of the internship.
- This position is unpaid and offered for course credit only.
About ACLU
The ACLU is a non-profit organization focused on the defense of civil rights and liberties. Founded in 1920, the group operates out of New York and Washington. It works on issues including voting rights, criminal justice reform, and freedom of speech. The organization employs over 1,200 people.
How to get in at ACLU
Securing an internship at the ACLU requires timing and persistence. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first, as early applicants get seen before the pile grows. This helps you avoid the frustration of submitting applications into a void. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves response rates. Connecting with a human recruiter often provides more clarity than a standard application portal.
