News & Commentary

In February 2026, The University of North Texas abruptly censored an exhibition by artist Victor “Marka27” Quiñonez — a Neo-Indigenous and Dallas-raised Mexican American artist. Leaked transcripts later indicated that the university shut down Marka27’s exhibition due to “the political and public response [and] scrutiny across the spectrum” related to “anti-ICE messaging.”

When I received my letter of admission, I believed I was joining a university committed to free speech and student activism. But by the time I arrived on campus, higher education in Texas had become a political battleground.

From protests and journalism to social media and campus speech, explore how the First Amendment safeguards everyone — including immigrants — and what it actually covers.

Together, we can build schools where all students — regardless of their background — feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn.

From defending free speech to organizing locally, ACLU experts explain what actions actually work to hold the Trump administration accountable and protect democracy.

From Arkansas to Oklahoma, politicians are pushing religion into public schools. The ACLU is fighting back to defend church-state separation and students’ rights.

Khalil, who was unlawfully arrested in retaliation for his advocacy, details this violation of his free speech rights.

Extremists are working to dismantle long-standing anti-discrimination protections and statutory mandates by targeting what they broadly refer to as diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA).

The laws, systems, and structures that support racial equity in America will stand strong in the face of inordinate pressure, but only if we band together to protect this vital civil rights infrastructure.