About the role#
The National Prison Project works to ensure that conditions in prisons, jails, juvenile detention centers, and immigration detention facilities comply with the Constitution and human rights principles. As an undergraduate intern, you will support our team in advocating for prison reform and litigation efforts. This role provides exposure to the legal and advocacy work necessary to address issues like overcrowding, health care, and solitary confinement.
What you'll do#
- Conduct factual research and writing on the rights of incarcerated people and legislative movements.
- Gather current data regarding prison and jail conditions.
- Document and track complaints from incarcerated people and provide them with informational materials.
- Assist with the production and distribution of advocacy materials.
- Provide direct campaign and litigation support to supervising attorneys.
What you'll need#
- You are a currently matriculated undergraduate student who has completed at least one year of your program.
- You have a strong interest in the rights of incarcerated people and a commitment to civil rights.
- You possess excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
- You are organized and able to work independently.
- You have strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word and Excel).
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, 10-week internship for Summer 2027.
- The role is based in Washington, D.C., with remote or hybrid work options available.
- The position pays $20 per hour.
- You must be based in the U.S. for the duration of the internship.
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.
