First Amendment

Protecting First Amendment rights, including the right to protest, freedom of the press, free speech, and religious liberty, remains a cornerstone of the mission of the ACLU of Ohio.

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Protecting First Amendment rights, including the right to protest, freedom of the press, free speech, and religious liberty, remains a cornerstone of the mission of the ACLU of Ohio. We are here to defend against government intrusion into our personal, political, and religious lives. The framers of our Constitution underscored the importance of personal liberties and expressions, no matter a person’s social class or position in society. The ACLU of Ohio is committed to preserving the right for all people to examine or criticize our government, practice religion with political overreach, and exercise their ability to think and speak freely. These liberties have been and will always remain critical to our democratic principles.

The Latest


News & Commentary
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Community and Conversation Through Banned Books Bingo

Banned Book Bingo has turned into one of our most popular events.
News & Commentary
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Reviving Ohio’s Democracy, Together

Let's work together to restore what we've lost and revive our democracy ahead of the 2026 Midterms.
Know Your Rights
Protesters Know Your Rights

Protesters: Know Your Rights!

Protesting in Ohio
Press Release
Background of someone writing with chalk with the words Press Release

ACLU of Ohio Sends Letter to Ohio State University Demanding Rescission of “Flatly Unconstitutional” Campus Chalking Ban

OSU's Chalking Ban silences an entire medium of speech in order to discriminate against one political viewpoint; it must not stand for another school year.

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation


Court Case
Dec 11, 2025

Christensen v. Carter, et al.

Court Case
Dec 11, 2025

Netchoice, LLC v. Yost (amicus)

Campaign
Apr 2026

Engaged Democracy

We envision an Ohio where every eligible person can fully participate in a vibrant democracy—where every vote counts, every voice matters, and fair representation is the norm.
Court Case
Dec 11, 2025

Parents Defending Education v. Olentangy Local School District Board of Education, et al. (amicus)