Fall 2026 Undergraduate Intern, Communications - Earned Media and Communications Strategy

ACLU - Internships • Washington, DC

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The ACLU seeks an Undergraduate Intern in the Communications and Marketing Department of the ACLU’s National office. This is a part-time position that can be based in Washington D.C., New York or remote. Qualifying applicants must currently be matriculated undergraduate students or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience and must be based in the U.S. for the entire duration of the internship. The ACLU communications department creates, maintains, and expands message narratives to engage our supporters and other target audiences, to help protect and expand civil liberties and civil rights, and also illustrate the value and impact of the ACLU’s transformational work. Through our messaging, engagement with newsmakers, our written content, creative branding, and visual identity, we encourage support for the ACLU and help to build a more perfect union.

Requirements

• Completion of at least the first year of an undergraduate degree in communications, public relations, journalism, political science, or a related field
• At least one semester (or equivalent) internship or work experience in the following areas: journalism, public relations, communications
• Exceptional writing and editing skills
• Avid news reader; familiarity with news media and online platforms, as well as the latest trends in media
• Familiarity with best practices in communications and public relations
• Must be currently matriculated undergraduate students or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Must be based in the U.S. for the entire duration of the internship

Nice To Haves

• Experience drafting press releases, blogs, social media posts, or other digital content strongly preferred
• Familiarity with Associated Press style or media relations software such as Cision or Meltwater is a plus

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the day-to-day functions of the communications department, including writing internal and external-facing materials such as press releases, talking points, social media posts, blogs, digital content, and media advisories
• Build media expertise by researching and building lists of key reporters, editors, producers, and bookers from a wide array of national and local publications
• Help increase coverage of ACLU issues and messages by crafting and sending pitches to news media on ACLU campaigns and projects
• Monitor news and media trends, including tracking press clips
• Engage in research projects that can help inform multi-faceted communications plans, which include goals, audiences, messaging, and media relations strategies

Benefits

• A stipend is available for students who are lawfully authorized to work.
• Arrangements can be made with educational institutions for work/study or course credit.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree