Women's Rights

The ACLU of North Carolina pushes for change and systemic reform in institutions that perpetuate discrimination against women, including issues such as education, employment, and reproductive rights.

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A look back at history shows that women have made great strides in the fight for equality, including women’s suffrage and inroads in equal opportunity in the workplace and education. Despite the tremendous progress made in the struggle for gender equality, women still face violence, discrimination, and institutional barriers to equal participation in society.

Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, the ACLU of North Carolina pushes for change and systemic reform in institutions that perpetuate discrimination against women, including issues such as education, employment, and reproductive rights.

Today, gender bias continues to create huge barriers for many women. Ongoing struggles include ensuring equal economic opportunities, educational equity, and an end to gender-based violence.

The Latest

Press Release
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ACLU of North Carolina Statement regarding lawsuit filed by Justice Earls

News & Commentary
A women's history of the ACLU

A Women’s History of the ACLU

This women’s history month, we’re taking a look at our own history and how women have played a central, formative role in our ongoing work to protect civil liberties and create a more perfect union.
News & Commentary
Protest crowd with a sign that says "My Body My Choice"

Know Your Facts: Common Abortion Myths to Watch Out For

Abortion opponents often use misinformation and outright lies to support their political agenda. We’ve gathered some common myths about abortion you may be hearing from lawmakers — or even friends and loved ones — and the facts you should know with evidence from credible sources. 
Press Release
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Abortion Now Banned After 20th Week of Pregnancy in North Carolina

Court Case
Mar 01, 2016

Peltier v. Charter Day School (Discriminatory School Dress Codes)

The ACLU successfully represented three Brunswick County students in a legal challenge against a section of a K-8 public charter school’s dress code that requires female students to wear skirts to school and prohibits them from wearing pants or shorts.
Court Case
Nov 30, 2016

Bryant v. Woodall

The ACLU and other reproductive rights groups successfully challenged North Carolina’s unconstitutional law that prevented doctors from providing abortion care to a woman after the twentieth week of pregnancy.