Prisoners' Rights

The ACLU of Hawai‘i works to ensure fair and equal treatment is consistent in Hawai‘i's incarceration system.

Prisoners' Rights Banner

The population in American prisons and jails has tripled in the past 15 years. Prison facilities are overcrowded; medical systems overwhelmed; work, education, and treatment programs are inadequate; and prisoner idleness and stress has lead to greater levels of violence within our criminal justice system. The ACLU of Hawai‘i works to ensure fair and equal treatment is consistent in Hawai‘i's incarceration system.

The Latest

Press Release
Dr. Amy Agbayani of The Legal Clinic shares a statement at the ACLU-HI Press Conference on January 12, 2026.

ACLU of Hawaiʻi Highlights Immigration, Criminal Justice, and Gender Equity Reforms for Upcoming 2026 Legislative Session

HONOLULU, HI – On January 12, the ACLU of Hawai‘i (“ACLU-HI”) held a press conference to announce its 2026 legislative priorities, which include criminal legal system reforms, increased protection for Hawai‘i’s immigrant communities, and stronger efforts to defend gender equity and LGBTQ+ rights.
News & Commentary
Placeholder image

Confessions could be thrown out because of new Hawaii Supreme Court ruling

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A decision by the state’s highest court means changes are coming for criminal investigations in Honolulu.
News & Commentary
hawaii protest.png

Law Enforcement Officers Should Explain Why Arrests Are Necessary

A state Senate committee killed a bill to have cops explain why they make warrantless arrests for petty misdemeanors and violations.
News & Commentary
Screenshot 2025-03-03 at 5.49.57 PM.png

$1 Billion Superjail Is No Solution For Reform, Housing, Public Health

Our criminal justice issues are primarily driven by an affordable housing and public health crisis.