News & Commentary

Criminal Law Reform

Ending Indefinite Solitary Confinement for the Vast Majority of People with Death Sentences in Oklahoma

After years of working collaboratively with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, we are proud to announce the end of indefinite solitary confinement for the vast majority of people incarcerated with death sentences in Oklahoma.

By Travis Handler

Latest Event

Voices Uncaged: Hispanic Heritage Art and Activism

This event is in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month with the purpose of bringing together artists, organizers, and community members to explore the powerful intersection of art and activism. We aim to uplift the voices, experiences, and resilience of immigrant communities – particularly those impacted by detention, deportation, and harmful immigration policies.

The event will take place at a local art gallery in the Paseo Art district of OKC near Flora Bodega, a community hub. Attendees can come-and-go anytime from 6-9pm on Friday, September 4 during the Paseo District's First Friday gallery walk.

Hispanic woman and man looking to the left.

More from the Press

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Stay informed on civil rights issues. Discover our latest actions and updates in the Press Release section.

Jun 18, 2026

2026 Pride Parade

We’re so excited you’ll be joining ACLU of Oklahoma for the 2026 Oklahoma City Pride Parade on Sunday, June 28th in downtown OKC!

We the People with a rainbow flag
Jun 10, 2026

Help Wanted: Oklahoma’s Immigration Crisis and the Urgent Need For Habeas Counsel

Oklahoma has a growing immigration enforcement crisis.

By Travis Handler

Two signs are held up during the May Day March In Manhattan, New York on May 1, 2025. The largest of the signs is in the foreground and reads"We Are a Nation of Immigrants," while the smaller in the background reads, " WE ARE ALL (EXCEPT NATIVE...
Jun 02, 2026

The 250th Year of the American Experiment: Power, Democracy, and 2SLGBTQ Rights in Dynamic Tension For Pride Month, 2026

This blog reflects on the 250th anniversary during Pride Month to ask: What does this moment mean for civil rights and civil liberties, specifically for 2SLGBTQ populations?

By Sage Mauldin

A Pride supporter (whose face cannot be seen) holds an Intersex-inclusive Pride Flag in their hair while facing the Supreme Court.
May 19, 2026

Senate Bill 904 FAQ

S.B. 904 restricts the use of state resources for gender-affirming medical care for minors and adults.

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May 04, 2026

287(g) in Oklahoma: How Local Police Become Immigration Enforcers

The 287(g) program was created by the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigration Responsibility Act of 1996. Participation in the program is completely voluntary, meaning local officials choose whether they wish to enter into a cooperative agreement with ICE.

By Camree Bennett-Cox, Travis Handler

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Dec 16, 2025

Getting to Know Kendrick Simpson on Death Row

I’ve had the opportunity to get to know the next man Oklahoma plans to kill, Kendrick Simpson. Kendrick and I have visited down on death row many times as I’ve worked with my colleagues and with Kendrick to improve conditions for all the guys on death row. It’s been a privilege to get to know Kendrick and, since you don’t have the same opportunity, I’d like to share my experience with you.

By Randy Bauman

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Sep 09, 2025

Open vs. Closed: The Battle for the Future of Language Models

Will Language Models Foster Freedom or Authoritarianism? (part 4 in a series)

A view of the stacks of an open research library
Sep 08, 2025

Revisiting the NEA Four: Free Speech Battles in the Arts

From the “decency” fights of the 1990s to today’s “gender ideology” rule, the NEA’s funding shifts are sidelining queer voices. The ACLU is pushing back to protect artists.

A photo of the the NEA Four at the supreme court.
Sep 04, 2025

Lawmakers Can't Turn Classrooms Into Sunday Schools

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

Two street signs at an intersection on a pole reading Church St on one and State St on the other.