Research & Publications

The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy, but this report highlights the reality that the right to vote doesn’t look the same for all Kansans. Far too often, access to the polls is dependent on your zip code, the language you speak, your job, age, the number of advance voting locations available to you and what hours they’re open, and countless other factors outside of your control.

Back when I was clerking for a court, there was a case where everyone assumed a defendant understood enough English to proceed without an interpreter. It quickly became clear that he did not fully understand what was being said, and the hearing was immediately continued until an interpreter could be present. The court recognized something we often overlook elsewhere: being present is not the same thing as understanding.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Kansans have long been a part of the diverse fabric that makes the Midwest. And in recent years, the Kansas AAPI Citizen Voting Age population (CVAP) has only grown, with estimates more than doubling from 20,260 CVAP in 2012-2016 to 57,929 CVAP in 2020-2024.

The 2026 Kansas Legislative Session was consequential in the fight for civil liberties, and the ACLU of Kansas was under the dome for voting rights, criminal legal reform, immigration, free speech, and other fundamental protections. While the session produced a mixed set of outcomes, several key victories reminded us the impact of sustained advocacy and underscored the importance of everyday Kansans showing up.

A politicized State Supreme Court may not sound like an issue on face value, but it is important to understand what is at stake.

Today, we celebrate trans joy, life, and expression that will always exist in Kansas, while also reckoning with the increased politicization, violence, and discrimination that we’ve witnessed come alongside with increased visibility by society.

A trans Kansan was forced to flee their home. Once 26 years ago, and now again with the passage of SB 244.

On March 3rd, the Kansas Senate voted to require school districts to pay a hefty fine if their students walked out during the school day for a protest.