News & Commentary

Photo of City of San Diego seal in the city council chambers. An American flag is in the left bottom corner.

ACLU-SDIC Public Comment – City of San Diego Risk Management Presents on Settlements & Judgments Against SDPD

The following prepared public comment, following a presentation by the City of San Diego’s Risk Management on settlements and judgments against the San Diego Police Department (SDPD), outlines the significant amount of city funds used for these SDPD settlements and how that money would be better spent investing in our communities. This public comment was delivered before the San Diego City Council Budget and Government Efficiency Committee by ACLU-SDIC Senior Policy Advocate Branden Sigua on June 17, 2026.

By Branden Sigua

Latest Press Release

Jun 09, 2026

Workers and Advocacy Groups Challenge DHS’s Illegal Warrantless Arrest Policy

DHS practice amounts to “arrest people and ask questions later.”

More from the Press

Stay informed on civil rights issues. Discover our latest actions and updates in the Press Release section.

Samantha Itazawa (long dark hair, bangs, wearing black longsleeve shirt) delivers testimony into microphone standing before a seated crowd.

ACLU-SDIC Public Testimony – San Diego City Council Resolution in Support of Somali Community

The following public comment outlines the ACLU-SDIC's support for a resolution in support for our Somali community. This public comment was delivered before the San Diego City Council by ACLU-SDIC Staff Attorney Samantha Itazawa on June 15, 2026.

By Samantha Itazawa

Daniela holding rainbow fan that says "fan of equal rights"

ACLU-SDIC Public Testimony – Support for Pride Month Resolution at Central Union High School District Board Meeting

The following public comment outlines the ACLU-SDIC's support for a LGBTQIA+ Pride Month Resolution. This public comment was delivered before the Central Union High School District Board by ACLU-SDIC Senior Organizer Daniela Vega on June 9, 2026. The resolution passed with a 4-1 vote.

By Daniela Vega

Sign that says San Diego says Flock Off!

ACLU-SDIC Public Comment – City of San Diego Holds Hearing on Approval of FY27 Budget

The following public comment outlines the ACLU-SDIC's opposition to the city of San Diego's contracts with Flock Safety and support for services and resources related to youth, libraries, arts, housing, parks and other programs that help San Diegans thrive. This public comment was delivered before the San Diego City Council by ACLU-SDIC Senior Policy Advocate Branden Sigua on June 9, 2026.

By Branden Sigua

Oct 31, 2010

Protecting Public Safety Doesn't Mean Sacrificing Civil Liberties

Police have the vital and difficult job of protecting public safety. Performing this job effectively does not require sacrificing civil liberties. All California police agencies need to respect the rights of individuals while enforcing the law. And when allegations of misconduct arise, there must be policies and mechanisms to hold police accountable for their actions.

Oct 29, 2010

Southwestern College: The Ongoing Free Speech Saga

Oct 28, 2010

Cannabis Should Be Controlled, Not Criminalized

Oct 17, 2010

ACLU Afternoon at the Theater

Oct 17, 2010

Protect All Youth

Oct 15, 2010

ACLU Urges Feds Not to Appeal Don't Ask Don't Tell Ruling

Oct 06, 2010

Coalition Debunks Myths about East African Asylum Seekers

Sep 29, 2010

Rush to Execution Halted

Sep 28, 2010

Demonstrate Opposition to CA's Reinstatement of Executions

Stay Informed

By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy statement.