Ways to Stay Engaged While You Stay Home: August 26 Edition

During these unprecedented times, ACS continues to provide a virtual forum for our network to engage and work toward a Constitution that is truly “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” Here are some ways to help you stay engaged while in-person events are canceled, and you can view all available volunteer opportunities here. Do you have ideas we should include in future editions? Let us know by emailing info@acslaw.org! 

Start Planning Your Fall CITC Program Now!

Constitution in the Classroom brings ACS members into schools to raise awareness of
fundamental constitutional principles. As lawyers and law students, ACS members have an important resource they can share with students: their knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution. ACS prepares topical lesson plans every year that volunteers use in elementary, middle and high school classrooms. This year, the lessons are focused on our 20th anniversary theme, Race and the Constitution. Learn more about the program and sign up to participate here.

Help with the COVID-19 Eviction Crisis
Pro bono attorneys are urgently needed to help with COVID-related eviction cases across the country. Local legal aid organizations have varying needs and offer support, training, and supervision of pro bono cases. Email LCEmails@acslaw.org to find out more about opportunities available in your area.

Raise Awareness for Voting Rights in Your Community

Check out the new, educational trivia game ACS has partnered with the League of Women Voters on. Test your knowledge of Voting Rights in your state and share this important resource with your network to raise awareness about registering to vote and state voting procedures. Explore the VerifyIt! Game here! Be sure to share any feedback about the game with us at LCEmails@acslaw.org

Open Justice Police Accountability Volunteer Project

The Chicago Justice Project is seeking law student volunteers to assist in transparency research related to the impact of state legislation, collective bargaining agreements, & court precedent on the accessibility of data & records from local, county, and state criminal justice agencies across all 50 states. CJP asks that volunteers dedicate 5 - 10 hours per week to research, and all work will be done remotely this Fall. For more information and to volunteer, please email LCEmails@acslaw.org.

Notice & Comment Opportunities

The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are seeking comment by October 19 on a proposed rule to amend the regulations governing certain protection claims raised by individuals subject to expedited removal and found to have a credible fear of persecution or torture. These changes are intended to improve the Departments' ability to consider the asylum claims of individuals encountered at or near the border more promptly while ensuring fundamental fairness. Comments may be submitted to https://www.regulations.gov/. Read more from Reuters and CNN.

Learn more about these opportunities on the ACS Notice and Comment Page. Check out our Notice and Comment Webinar and email LCEmails@acslaw.org with any questions.