A lot of the work we do doesn't result in a lawsuit or other formal measure.
For example, we receive a complaint from a concerned parent of a public school student, and we are able to resolve the issue with a formal letter to the school district. Another example, the RI Board of Elections proposes a new rule or regulation that may violate the U.S. Constitution, then reconsiders upon hearing our testimony on their proposal. Our "behind the scenes" work may not make it on the evening news or into your twitter feed, but these efforts are absolutely critical to protecting the rights of all in the Ocean State.
This letter was sent to the South Kingstown Town Council regarding an unconstitutional ordinance prohibiting political signage to be displayed more than 60 days before an election or 120 days total in a year — an ordinance which we already contacted them about two years ago.
November 18, 2024
This letter was sent to the Narragansett Building Official about municipal code violation citations issued to a number of landlords, relying on an now-unenforceable ordinance, asking the Town to immediately rescind any violation notices.
November 6, 2024
This is the ACLU of Rhode Island's testimony on a proposed University of Rhode Island policy that regulates the use of University property.
October 24, 2024 This letter was sent to the Interim Chief Executive Officer of RIPTA and the Providence Police Department Chief about an incident in Kennedy Plaza on October 16 where we believe two Rhode Island residents' First Amendment rights to freedom of speech were violated.
October 21, 2024 This letter was sent to the Barrington School Committee, urging them to reject a proposal to add an additional School Resource Officer (SRO) to the school district. The letter was signed by 18 organizations.
October 8, 2024 This letter was sent to the Newport City Manager, requesting that Newport resident Christian Winthrop, founder and publisher of the online media site Newport Buzz, be reinstated to the City's email distribution list.
October 8, 2024