Our Work
We are committed to representing those persons and groups that been historically targeted in Texas and still are today - including immigrants, people of color, the poor, persons with disabilities, persons accused of crimes, others. We use the law as a sword and shield against abuse, discrimination, disenfranchisement, and other injustices, demanding accountability from those in power. We organize our work within three program areas - Beyond Borders, Criminal Injustices, and Voting Rights - led by senior lawyers and advocates with subject matter expertise.
Voting Rights Program
In North Texas, the right to vote is crucial for ensuring that every community member has a say in shaping their future. However, many voters in this region face significant barriers that hinder their ability to participate in the democratic process, particularly young people, communities of color, and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. TCRP is actively engaged in Election Protection efforts across North Texas, working to safeguard the voting rights of all eligible citizens. With a strong legal and policy presence, we challenge unjust voting laws through litigation and advocate for policies that expand access to the ballot box. Our Election Protection initiatives include fighting voter suppression, promoting electoral reforms, and partnering with grassroots organizations to mobilize and educate voters. By providing crucial resources and support, we ensure that every eligible voter in North Texas can exercise their right to vote and have their voices heard in our democracy.
Criminal Injustice Program
North Texas reflects the broader challenges of mass incarceration that plague our state. Texas leads the nation in incarceration rates, and North Texas is deeply affected by this crisis. TCRP, with a statewide legal and policy footprint, is committed to challenging the drivers of mass incarceration in the DFW area and beyond. We address issues such as discriminatory policing, unfair prosecution practices, and exploitation within the criminal justice system. Our work in North Texas aims to hold local authorities accountable and push for meaningful reforms that reduce the criminalization of marginalized communities.
Beyond Borders Program
TCRP's commitment to defending the rights of immigrant and marginalized communities extends across Texas, including North Texas. The DFW area, with its diverse and dynamic population, faces systemic issues and unjust policies that threaten fundamental rights. Through our statewide advocacy and legal efforts, we challenge discriminatory practices and policies, striving to create a more just and equitable environment. Our movement work aims to drive systemic change that positively impacts the lives of individuals and communities throughout North Texas and beyond.
Did You Know?
Our Texas Civil Rights Project attorneys and advocates are working hard on groundbreaking initiatives right now! From tackling systemic voter suppression to challenging unjust incarceration practices and defending immigrant rights, our team is on the front lines of the fight for justice.
A few of those impactful initiatives are...
- Joining Forces to #FinishThe5: The Texas Civil Rights Project has partnered with advocates across Texas to end child prisons and eradicate juvenile incarceration once and for all!
- The Texas Civil Rights Project is part of the Cervini v. Cisneros case, where a jury will determine if Trump supporters who intimidated Biden-Harris campaign staff on a Texas highway on October 30, 2020, violated state and federal laws, including the Klan Act. The trial begins on September 9, 2024.
- In the Wagner v. City of Dallas case, the Texas Civil Rights Project is challenging a city ordinance that fines individuals for sitting or standing on medians. TCRP argues that the ordinance unfairly targets people experiencing homelessness and infringes on First Amendment rights.
- In the Anibowei v. Barr case, the Texas Civil Rights Project is challenging immigration policies and decisions in a lawsuit filed in North Texas against the Attorney General, William Barr, aiming to address and rectify injustices in the immigration system.