MENDOCINO CO., 4/8/25 — Every summer, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) hosts the National Advocacy Institute High School Program, a week of programming in Washington, D.C. that concentrates on the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the importance of individual liberties and the safeguards that exist to protect those liberties.
The ACLU began defending citizens’ rights in 1920, during a time when the then-attorney general was rounding up “radicals” and deporting them without due process. The nonprofit has since defended American citizens’ rights to free speech, freedom of religion, rights to privacy and much more with 500 staff attorneys and thousands of volunteer attorneys. While the ACLU has sometimes defended unpopular causes, the nonprofit is widely regarded as the principle defender of individual liberties against the overreach of governmental agencies.
High school students who wish to apply still have time to get in an application. The regular decision application period closes on April 15, so apply soon if you want the best chance at admission.
Throughout the week-long program, students will learn about advocacy campaigns and how they work, meet ACLU lawyers, meet other policy-interested teens, and engage in conversations with policy experts.
The one-week programs are offered in July and August. Housing and meals are provided. Tuition assistance is available to qualifying applicants. Information on how to apply is available here.