In case you missed it, our summer 2025 newsletter is now live! Enjoy this excerpt, and read the entire newsletter online.
As we emerge from another grueling Montana legislative session while simultaneously navigating the harsh and chaotic realities of a second Trump Administration, one enduring truth stands out: We are all in this together.
Not only are our futures inextricably linked, but our ability to defeat emerging threats to our rights and democracy rests on our ability to effectively work together, using the talents and tools at our disposal. To repeat a refrain I am sure you hear everywhere: These are unprecedented times. This moment calls us to put aside our minor differences and come together, pooling our collective power to firmly protect our civil rights, while continuing to build the fairer and more just future we envision. As Wael Ghonim wisely said, “The power of the people is much greater than the people in power.”
Amidst these challenging times, we continue to make progress in defending and advancing Montanans’ rights and liberties. Our summer 2025 newsletter provide a peek into the ACLU of Montana’s integrated advocacy approach to maximizing our impact in protecting civil rights. You will learn about the legislative work of our Advocacy, Policy, and Organizing Department, which successfully defeated many bills attacking our most fundamental freedoms— from bills criminalizing life-saving care for minors, to attempts to politicize and denigrate our courts. You will also learn about the swift actions our legal team took filing legal challenges to respond to unconstitutional federal actions and state laws, ensuring that the most marginalized among us can safely exercise their rights. In the face of outrageous abuses of power and outright discrimination, our team remained undeterred in advancing the ACLU’s mission to protect our civil rights, while leading with grace, integrity, and care.
No matter the challenges that lie ahead, the ACLU of Montana will continue to hold the line. But we need you by our side. We implore you to exercise your rights and do so loudly. Speak out against unjust policies and abuses of power. Continue to protest. Speak up for our shared Montana values, recognizing that “the dignity of the human being is inviolable.” Stay informed on local issues and get involved in local school board elections and city council ordinances. Together we will meet the day with courage, resilience, and people power.
I leave you with this final reminder: “When a group of people comes together, their collective energy, ideas, and resources can accomplish what might seem impossible alone.” - Delores Huerta.
Onward,
Akilah Maya Deernose
Executive Director of the ACLU of Montana