Privacy, Surveillance and Technology

As technology advances, we need to make sure that protections for privacy and free speech aren’t left behind. ACLU-TN works to expand the right to privacy, increase individuals’ control over their personal information, and ensure that civil liberties are enhanced by technological innovation.

A surveillance camera on a green background

Our Constitution and democratic system require that the government be transparent and accountable to the people — but not that people’s lives be an open book to the government.

ACLU has been at the forefront of challenging the government’s secret surveillance, watchlists and unchecked information-sharing; its violations of our rights to privacy, free speech, due process and association; and its stigmatization of minority communities and activists disproportionately targeted by surveillance. ACLU-TN also supports open government, including access to information. Open government is a cornerstone of democracy that enables advocates, activists and the press to monitor government performance and expose corruption. Without transparency in government activities, the American people are vulnerable to deception and abuse by our leaders.

In addition, as technology advances, we need to make sure that protections for privacy and free speech aren’t left behind. ACLU-TN works to expand the right to privacy, increase individuals’ control over their personal information, and ensure that civil liberties are enhanced rather than compromised by technological innovation.

The Latest

Press Release
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News & Commentary
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Police Surveillance: Knoxville, Tennessee

Press Release
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Comment on Modification of Court Order Limiting Memphis Police Surveillance

Court Case
Jul 25, 2018

Blanchard et al. v. City of Memphis

Court Case
Mar 02, 2017

BLACKLISTED: Memphis Police Surveillance and Kendrick v. Chandler – A Timeline

ACLU-TN has had an ongoing concern over police surveillance of Memphis residents engaging in protected free speech activities for many decades.
Court Case
Feb 29, 2016

United States v. Houston

Court Case
Oct 27, 2014

Free Speech, Social Media and Williamson County Schools