About Akilah Maya Deernose

Professional Leadership at ACLU of Montana

Akilah Maya Deernose serves as Executive Director of the ACLU of Montana, announced in a May 2023 press release.[9] She leads lobbying efforts, including against an anti-trans bathroom bill that was blocked from enforcement, alongside colleagues Khadija Davis and Henry Seaton.[1][4][6] As an attorney, she represents plaintiffs in lawsuits challenging discriminatory policies, such as providing contact details (406-203-3375, deernosea@aclumontana.org) in a reply brief for a preliminary injunction involving Jessica van Garderen and others.[8] Her work ties into broader victories, like a judge's ruling that Montana's driver's license system discriminates against nonbinary residents.[10]

LGBTQ+ and Civil Rights Advocacy

Deernose's leadership emphasizes protections for transgender and nonbinary individuals, exemplified by blocking anti-trans legislation[4] and supporting lawsuits against discriminatory state systems.[8][10] ACLU Montana under her direction highlights emergency lawsuits and policy challenges to ensure full civil rights access.[9]

Community and Indigenous Justice Engagement

She collaborates with figures like Angeline Cheek on indigenous justice blogs[6] and appears in community contexts, such as events with Hazella Peace.[2][3] Comments on health-related posts, like praising Amy Stiffarm's content,[5] suggest support for wellness and indigenous stories shared via blogs.[5][6]

Personal Interests and Public Commentary

Beyond advocacy, Deernose engages in leisure activities like a fun night with The Angel Blue & The Prophets Band at Moose 53[2] and disc golf discussions.[2] She comments on fashion, appreciating a spring denim review for comfort details.[7]