Friend –

In times of crisis and societal disarray, government too often overreaches, or instead doesn't do enough to protect the most vulnerable among us.

In these challenging times, the ACLU of Iowa is pushing back. We're urging the government to respect our most fundamental rights and address the disproportionate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on already marginalized Iowans.

Some highlights:

• Filed successful emergency litigation to stop Governor Reynolds' attempted ban on essential abortion procedures during the COVID-19 crisis.
• Encouraged Iowa's jails and overcrowded prisons to release as many people as safely possible in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among those imprisoned, as well as among staff, law enforcement, and surrounding communities.
• Organized a push for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to release as many people being held in Iowa jails for immigration reasons as possible. Detention should not be a death sentence.
• Publicized gender and racial disparities among Iowans who would be evicted from their apartments or get their utilities cut off during this unprecedented economic disaster and urged state officials to continue moratoriums on eviction and shutoffs.
• Spoke out against Governor Reynolds' official government call to Christian prayer.
• Educating the public on how to register and vote in the June 2 primary in Iowa with absentee and curbside voting.

During these difficult days when we are all reminded of what matters most, I am especially grateful for our supporters who make our work possible. The future may be uncertain, but as we navigate this crisis and its impacts together, you can count on us to continue to protect civil liberties for all Iowans, no matter where and when. We won't let you down.

With appreciation,

Mark Stringer, ACLU of Iowa Executive Director