Leon Howard

Leon was raised in Albuquerque’s International District and is a graduate of the University of New Mexico School of Law.  He has defended people’s civil rights and liberties in New Mexico for thirteen years.  He currently serves as the Deputy Director at the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico, where he oversees the affiliate’s programmatic work (legal, policy, and communications).  Leon is a passionate advocate for racial equality and justice.  He knows firsthand the damaging effects of racial injustice, and his strong connections in communities of color have made him a “go-to” legal resource when people in those communities experience injustice and civil rights abuses.  He is also passionate about protecting the rights of all underrepresented populations and people who are victims of governmental/institutional abuse of power.