News & Commentary

‘It’s about voices’: Hawaii organizations launch reading initiatives during Banned Books Week

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Organizations in Hawaii and across the country are observing Banned Books Week by calling attention to the dangers of censorship.

Latest Press Release

Oct 31, 2025

Hawaiʻi Federal Court Rules that FDA’s Restrictions on Medication Abortion are Unlawful

HONOLULU, HI – In an October 30 ruling, U.S. District Judge Jill Otake held that the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) imposition of medically unnecessary restrictions on the medication abortion pill, Mifepristone, violated federal law.

More from the Press

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

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.

Hawaiʻi Matters | 105.9 The Wave FM: Salmah Rizvi on ACLU of Hawaiʻi

Salmah Rizvi on ACLU of Hawaiʻi, Know Your Rights, Finding Resources, the 60th Anniversary People's Fair in November.

Apr 29, 2025

Honolulu EMS Chief Says Medics Aren’t Safe In Oʻahu Prisons

Recent incidents at two state facilities prompted a letter to state prison officials telling them medical crews won’t be going inside the jails and prison anymore.

Apr 26, 2025

Legal Status Of Many International Students Across U.S. Reportedly Being Restored

Salmah Rizvi, ACLU Hawaii Executive Director speaks to KITV Island News.

Apr 21, 2025

Watered Down Property Seizure Bill Moves Forward

House Bill 126 was intended to require a conviction before property forfeiture is allowed.

Apr 10, 2025

Transgender Discrimination Concerns Rise At Maui Prep

The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii is taking action against Maui Preparatory Academy, challenging a policy that allegedly discriminates against transgender students.

Apr 10, 2025

ACLU Demands Maui Prep Rescind Anti-Transgender Policy

The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii has issued a formal legal demand to Maui Preparatory Academy in Lahaina, alleging the school has adopted a discriminatory policy targeting transgender students in violation of state anti-discrimination laws.

Apr 09, 2025

Maui Prep Policies For Transgender Students Face Legal Scrutiny

The ACLU of Hawaiʻi says Maui Prep’s proposed policies for transgender students violate state anti-discrimination laws.

Apr 02, 2025

Midwife Bill Advances In Hawai'i Senate But Causes Confusion

Carrie Ann Shirota, policy director of the ACLU of Hawai'i weighs in.

Mar 25, 2025

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.

Mar 24, 2025

New City And State Homeless Directors Face Monumental Task

At last count, homelessness rose in Hawaiʻi after falling for several years. But many in the service community say strong vision and a comprehensive plan can counterbalance high turnover in top positions.

Stay Informed

By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy statement.