Next Generation Society

Tomorrow we’re celebrating the Next Generation Society’s decade of action, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to civil liberties! Ten years ago, Next Gen started as a small but passionate group that believed in the power of collective action. Today, that group has grown into a force—an engaged network of advocates who refuse to let democracy, equality, and justice fade as the next generation steps up to lead our country. Here’s how you can be part of this next chapter: ??Be a part of Next Gen: If you haven’t yet renewed or purchased your membership, now is the time. Membership is the best way to stay engaged and make a lasting impact. ??Engage: Want to learn more, run for an open board position this summer, or get involved in upcoming events? Email [email protected] to learn about more opportunities within the Next Generation Society. ??Celebrate: In honor of our 10th anniversary, we’re reserving tickets for Next Gen members at the ACLU Lunch on Friday, April 4, at the Hilton Chicago. Reach out if you’d like to join us or support offsetting the cost of these tickets! The challenges ahead are real, but so is our collective resolve—your support fuels this fight. Learn more about opportunities to get involved at https://lnkd.in/gieFWctV

State protections matter now more than ever. Illinois stands as a crucial refuge, surrounded by states with harsh restrictions on abortion and gender-affirming care—thousands rely on us for access to essential healthcare. But staying a safe state for all means fighting to protect the rights we've worked so hard to secure. From defending trans rights and reproductive freedom to strengthening health data privacy laws, the work is far from over—and we need you in this fight. As part of this week's Membership Drive, ACLU-IL Advocacy Director Khadine Bennett breaks down the urgent threats to civil liberties and how Illinois is pushing back. Listen to our conversation, take action, and join us next Tuesday at SPIN Chicago to celebrate a decade of Next Gen’s impact: https://lnkd.in/gdU-ZDE3

Today’s Membership Drive Spotlight features Next Generation Society Board Member, Jesse Johnson! Learn more about Jesse below: ? Q: What has been your favorite Next Gen memory? ? A: My favorite Next Gen memory is my first Fall Fundraiser in 2019. I left that event feeling genuinely hopeful and inspired, which is something that isn’t always easy when reflecting on the political landscape of 2019 (or today). Being surrounded by passionate individuals who are committed to making a difference reminded me that, even in challenging times, collective action and advocacy can spark real change. ? Q: Why is it so important for people to take action on the issues they care about right now? ? A: Taking action on the issues we care about is crucial because we the people drive change. Even in the midst of chaos, our voices, choices, and efforts have the power to shape a better future not only for ourselves, but for others as well. I wish positive change happened on its own, but it requires us to take meaningful steps toward progress and every action contributes to a larger movement. ? Q: What is bringing you joy at this moment? ? A: I'm late to the game on the show The Traitors, but I am watching the current season and binge watching the prior seasons in the U.S. and U.K. versions. It's been perfect to turn my brain off from everything for a bit and just watch and enjoy the show. ? Get to know Jesse and other Next Gen members at our upcoming Next Generation Society Happy Hour! For more information on tickets and memberships, visit https://lnkd.in/gpp6ZgWm.

The fight for immigrant rights is at a critical moment—but the ACLU has been here before, and we’re ready. With our nationwide network of 56 affiliate offices, we are ready to challenge and push back against any attack on our immigrant communities. As a part of this week's Membership Drive, ACLU-IL Deputy Legal Director Michelle García breaks down threats from the Trump administration, how the ACLU is fighting back, and what’s at stake for communities across Illinois. Now is the time to stand up and take action. Listen to our conversation and join the movement: https://lnkd.in/gdU-ZDE3

Our first Membership Drive Spotlight features Next Generation Society Board President, Aaron Salamonson! Learn more about Aaron below: Q: What is bringing you joy at this moment? A: “The first thing that comes to mind right now is going to concerts. There's just so much potential for anxiety and dread which can sit in my body, so there's something really special about having a time and space to physically shed those feelings by moving, dancing, and experiencing music.” Q: What has been your favorite Next Gen memory? A: “Some of the preparation for last year's Fall Fundraiser. Reaching out to potential sponsors, partners, and donors for the auction and raffle can be a bit of an exercise in vulnerability, but it's so rewarding as you get the chance to talk to people about your "why" -- what values and experiences connect you to the work, and invite others to join you in action that makes a real difference.” Q: Why is it so important for people to take action on the issues they care about right now? A: “We keep getting word of unprecedented?attacks on people and systems from all sides that leave us overwhelmed and shaken. ‘Flood the zone’ is the playbook that we know is being used, and it's part of why these first few?weeks have felt like months. So right now, I believe it's important for us to respond and reclaim our power through targeted action. Just pick one thing, and act on that: give yourself permission to filter out the rest as you need to. Your action might be changing how you spend your money and letting companies know why, calling your elected officials and offering praise, criticism, or feedback for their actions during senate confirmations, signing up for ACLU Action Alerts, joining protests.?And if you're just not sure, reach out to someone you?know at the Next Generation Society for inspiration! Whatever your focus, taking action will help reclaim your power in the face of actors that aim to make us believe we are powerless. Finally, remember to take?care of?your?needs. Choose to allocate space to process feelings of anger, fear, and sadness: perhaps with a friend. Choose to refuel with the things that bring you joy. Choose to take care of your physical well-being. And as you are able, choose to take another action in the fight ahead.” Get to know Aaron and other Next Gen members at our upcoming Next Generation Society Happy Hour! For more information on tickets and memberships, visit https://lnkd.in/gpp6ZgWm

The fight for civil liberties is as urgent as ever — but the ACLU has been here before and we know how to win. Join us in celebrating 10 years of the Next Generation Society and standing together against any rollback of our rights. Our Happy Hour at SPIN on Tuesday, February 25 at 5 PM is more than just a gathering — it’s a chance to recharge, strategize, and take action. Right now, all Next Gen membership purchases include Happy Hour tickets at no extra cost. Don’t miss this opportunity — join us and be part of the movement. https://lnkd.in/gpp6ZgWm

We are excited to launch our 2025 membership drive for the Next Generation Society of the ACLU of Illinois - celebrating a decade of activism and impact! Over the past ten years, the ACLU Next Generation Society has achieved remarkable milestones and made a real impact in the fight to protect and advance our civil liberties. Since its founding in 2015, Next Gen has grown into a vibrant and diverse community of activists, artists, professionals, emerging leaders and other engaged community members committed to supporting the essential work of the ACLU and safeguarding our rights for future generations. By becoming a member, you will gain access to exclusive events, connect with like-minded individuals, and play a role in making meaningful change in Illinois. Visit this link to learn more and become a member today! As a special offer during our membership drive, all Next Generation Society membership purchases include a ticket to the Next Gen Happy Hour at SPIN on February 25th at no additional cost!

Join us on Tuesday, Feb 25th from 5-8 PM at SPIN Ping Pong Club to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Next Generation Society! Tickets include craft beer, wine, hors d'oeuvres, and unlimited ping pong. As a special offer during our membership drive, all Next Generation Society membership purchases include a Happy Hour ticket at no additional cost! The Next Generation Society Happy Hour is a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with others who share a passion for protecting civil liberties while celebrating a decade of building this amazing community. We hope you can join us to celebrate this 10th anniversary milestone! You can purchase your Next Gen membership or tickets to SPIN on our website: https://lnkd.in/gAMfP-SC

Thursday! Free Know Your Rights from leading experts, representatives and community representatives. Including our very own, Colleen Connell of the ACLU of Illinois.

The ACLU stands ready to defend?all of us, regardless of administration. The Next Generation Society is proud to be a space for community, engagement, and action. Together, we are stronger, and we will continue to make a difference, for all of us.?