ACLU of New Mexico names new Executive Director

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Mexico has appointed Leon Howard as its new executive director. The selection follows a nationwide search by the organization’s board of directors.

Howard brings nearly ten years of experience with the ACLU of New Mexico, having held positions such as staff attorney, legal director, deputy director, and most recently, interim executive director. He succeeds Peter Simonson, who stepped down in September 2024.

“As I step into this leadership role, I’m committed to an ACLU that puts people at the center of our work and stays true to our core mission of defending rights and liberties,” said Howard. “I’m excited to continue to lead our talented staff and give them the support they need to thrive and build meaningful partnerships across New Mexico’s diverse communities. I’m honored to guide this organization into its next chapter, advancing justice and equality through strategic, principled, and courageous advocacy that responds to the real needs of the people we serve.” 

Howard’s personal experiences, from facing racial profiling as a young student to rising through leadership positions in law school and the New Mexico State Bar, have shaped his commitment to civil rights work. 

“My journey to this moment wasn’t conventional. I didn’t grow up planning to be a civil rights lawyer. Instead, I was shaped by experiences that taught me both the sting of injustice and the power of fighting back. Being searched by a school cop on my first day of high school as a young Black student. Organizing against racially coded policies like banning wave caps,” Howard said. “Those experiences taught me that civil rights work isn’t abstract—it’s deeply personal, rooted in real experiences of real people who deserve better from the systems that are supposed to serve them.”

Staff celebrated his appointment noting Howard’s demonstrated commitment to the ACLU’s mission and his collaborative approach to advocacy work. 

“Leon Howard has exceptional leadership skills, deep understanding of New Mexico’s civil rights landscape and has a proven ability to build powerful coalitions across our diverse state,” said Kevin Hoover, president of the ACLU of New Mexico Board of Directors. “Leon’s strategic vision, combined with his lived experience and legal expertise, makes him uniquely qualified to lead the affiliate during this critical time for civil liberties in New Mexico and nationwide. The entire organization is energized by this appointment and eager to continue our vital work under his leadership.”