Research & Publications

State Representative Jody Barrett (R-69) recently sent a letter to Tennessee Department of Correction Commissioner Frank Strada demanding answers about the botched execution attempt of Tony Carruthers. The state attempted to execute Mr. Carruthers in May despite the ACLU's continued push for DNA testing that could prove his innocence. The execution team spent more than an hour trying to establish an IV line while Mr. Carruthers groaned in pain before Governor Lee issued a one-year reprieve. Barrett's letter raises the same questions ACLU has pressed since that day. In his July 1 letter, the State Representative gives Commissioner Strada until July 20 to explain what went wrong, what recent changes have been implemented, and why Tennesseans should trust the department to carry out the execution of Darrell Hines, scheduled for August 13. Barrett writes that "public confidence cannot exist without public accountability." Read the full letter here.

The ACLU of Tennessee is producing a storytelling series to help formerly incarcerated Tennesseans understand the voting rights restoration process, and we're looking for real people with real experiences to share.

The ACLU of Tennessee's annual report from the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years reflects on the civil rights and civil liberties victories and challenges in Tennessee over the past two years.

In this issue of "The Vigil," we take a glance at our landmark Supreme Court case, welcome new staff, the 2024 election, book bans, and so much more.

Though many voters are focused on the presidential election, other races on the ballot – including the state house race – will have a crucial impact on our day-to-day lives, from education to healthcare to public safety and much more.

Rutherford County school board scheduled to decide if 7 books should be banned.

In this issue: "Fighting for Reproductive Justice in Knoxville,” “Policy Director Unpacks the 2024 Legislative Session,” “Fighting for Accurate Driver's Licenses for Trans Tennesseans,” and "BoroPride Victory!".