Is America Sliding Toward Fascism? Civil Rights Groups Sound the Alarm Under Trump’s Second Term

As Donald Trump is well into his second term, civil rights organizations across the country are raising red flags over what they call a growing pattern of government overreach, racial targeting, and suppression of dissent. From immigration policies rooted in 18th-century wartime laws to aggressive crackdowns on protest and voting rights, critics warn that the administration’s actions threaten the core freedoms the country was built on.

One of the most alarming developments involves the use of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to detain and deport immigrants without due process. Recently, the Trump administration attempted to deport Venezuelan immigrants accused of gang affiliation under this centuries-old law, drawing comparisons to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. The Supreme Court stepped in to block those removals temporarily, but civil rights lawyers warn that the use of such laws reflects a disturbing shift toward authoritarianism.

Beyond immigration, there are growing concerns about the administration’s approach to voting rights, press freedom, and protest. Over the past year, multiple states with support from the Trump administration have enacted laws restricting mail-in voting, purging voter rolls, and limiting access to polling places, especially in Black and Brown communities. Legal experts say these efforts disproportionately affect marginalized voters and undermine democratic participation.

Meanwhile, activists and journalists face increasing surveillance and harassment. Several have reported being tracked, interrogated, or added to watchlists for protesting or reporting on government policies. The Department of Justice has come under scrutiny for aggressive prosecutions that some argue are intended to silence opposition.

Civil rights attorneys and historians warn that these tactics mirror those used by fascist regimes, targeting vulnerable groups, weakening institutions, and stoking fear to consolidate power.

But the fight isn’t over.

If you’re looking to take action, here are five civil rights organizations leading the charge to protect democracy, challenge government overreach, and defend vulnerable communities. Each accepts donations to support legal efforts, grassroots organizing, and policy reform:

1. American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
Website: https://www.aclu.org
For over a century, the ACLU has fought to protect individual rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution. They are actively challenging immigration policies, voting restrictions, and surveillance programs under the Trump administration.

2. NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund
Website: https://www.naacpldf.org
The NAACP Legal Defense Fund is a leading force in the fight for racial justice. They’re pushing back on voter suppression, racial profiling, and discriminatory policing practices.

3. Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)
Website: https://www.splcenter.org
The SPLC monitors hate groups, exposes extremist networks, and provides legal support to those targeted by discrimination. Their work is critical as the far-right continues to gain momentum in American politics.

4. Brennan Center for Justice
Website: https://www.brennancenter.org
Based at NYU Law, the Brennan Center is dedicated to reforming the legal system, protecting voting rights, and defending civil liberties in the courts and legislatures.

5. Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR)
Website: https://www.ccrjustice.org
CCR uses litigation and advocacy to challenge government abuse and fight for social justice. They’ve taken on ICE, the DOJ, and law enforcement agencies over unlawful detention and civil rights violations.

The current political climate is testing America’s commitment to democracy, freedom, and equality. But history has shown that organized resistance, legal challenges, and public support can push back against injustice.

Whether through donations, education, or activism, supporting these organizations is one way to stand up for civil rights in a time when they’re being tested the most.