About the role#
The ACLU is seeking a Legal Intern for the Policy & Government Affairs team within the National Political Advocacy Department. This role focuses on racial justice and technology policy, including issues related to artificial intelligence, algorithmic decision-making, and surveillance. You will work with a team of attorneys and staff to protect rights to voting, free speech, and privacy.
What you'll do#
- Conduct legal and policy research and draft reports on state and federal legislation.
- Analyze advocacy efforts and monitor legislative developments in Congress and state legislatures.
- Prepare public education materials, memoranda, and correspondence.
- Support congressional outreach through briefings, meetings on Capitol Hill, and letters.
- Manage specific projects and assist with other duties as assigned.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a legal degree program.
- Knowledge of government, policy, technology and democracy reform, and impacted communities.
- Strong research, writing, analysis, and communication skills.
- Ability to craft messages for diverse audiences.
- Proactive and organized approach with the ability to prioritize tasks.
- Capacity to work independently and as part of a team while handling confidential information.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is preferred.
- A commitment to the mission of the ACLU and a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Location & details#
- Location: Washington, District of Columbia (Hybrid).
- Term: Winter 2027 (12 consecutive weeks).
- Start dates: January 11 or January 25, 2027.
- Commitment: Part-time (10, 15, or 20 hours per week).
- Compensation: $24 per hour for legal students.
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.
