The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas works with communities, at the State Capitol, and in the courts to protect and advance civil rights and civil liberties for every Texan, no exceptions. From Amarillo to Brownsville and Beaumont to El Paso, we believe in a Texas that works for all of us — a Texas where each person has an equal say in the decisions that shape our future and everyone can build a good life.

The ACLU of Texas is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization with offices in Houston, Austin, Dallas, El Paso, and Brownsville.

The ACLU of Texas harnesses the power of arts and culture to boldly advance civil rights and civil liberties for every Texan. We invite Texas-based artists or artist groups working in any medium to apply for a 10-month residency to lead an arts-based project that advances strategic advocacy goals.

Priority Issues for 2026

• Free Speech and Pluralism: Protecting students’ rights in K-12 public schools.
• LGBTQIA+ Equality: Centering Black trans and intersex Texans.
• Reproductive Freedom: Highlighting the human impact of attacks on reproductive rights.

Projects addressing other ACLU of Texas issues will also be considered, but priority will be given to the themes above.

Residency Details

• Duration: April 2026 – January 2027
• Location: Project can take place anywhere in Texas. The artist may use the ACLU of Texas’ Houston office for workshops or rehearsals. No studio space is provided.
• Lodging: The ACLU of Texas will provide lodging accommodations for up to one week during the production or launch of the artist’s project in the community where the work takes place.
• Stipend: $30,000 to cover labor and materials. Additional grant support may be pursued collaboratively but is not guaranteed.

Learn more about current and past artists-in-residence.

• Check in at least twice per month with ACLU of Texas staff. Attend stakeholder meetings as needed.
• Develop and implement a project with community input and organizational guidance.
• Submit drafts and deliverables for review.
• Manage project budget and logistics.
• Participate in public promotion, including media interviews and social media.
• Grant the ACLU of Texas permission to use artwork and documentation to advance its mission.
• Assist in recruiting future artists-in-residence.

• Funding and organizational support to produce a large-scale, civil rights-focused arts project.
• Media training and communications support to elevate your profile.
• Access to legal, policy, and community engagement expertise.
• Documentation and endorsement for future opportunities.

• Quality of Work: Strong portfolio demonstrating technical skill and social engagement.
• Vision for Residency: A project concept aligned with ACLU of Texas’ mission and scaled appropriately.
• Commitment to Texas: Demonstrated connection to Texas communities.

Complete this form by Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT.

Applicants must have work authorization in the U.S.

The ACLU is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The ACLU encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, previous criminal conviction and veteran status.