American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is a nonpartisan organization devoted to defending the rights and freedoms of people in the United States. It works mainly by providing lawyers and legal advice for individuals and groups in local, state, and federal courts. ACLU officials also testify before state and federal legislative committees, advise government officials, and conduct educational programs. The chief goal of the ACLU is to protect the fundamental rights of individuals as described in the Constitution of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech and protection against unfair punishment for people accused of crimes.