Our Mission
Launched in 2006, the Appignani Humanist Legal Center is the legal arm of the American Humanist Association. The Legal Center’s team of attorneys, through trial and appellate litigation, amicus activity, and other legal work, provide the zealous advocacy that humanists and others need to defend constitutional rights and strengthen the wall of separation between church and state.
Our legal staff includes Legal Director Amitai Heller, Legal and Policy Assistant Claire Mulvey, plus a network of volunteer attorneys from around the country.
Our Staff
Amitai Heller is the Legal Director at the American Humanist Association's Appignani Humanist Legal Center, where he brings extensive litigation experience to advance civil rights. He has led a number of successful, high-profile cases in his previous positions, including ones advocating for the rights of dying individuals with Compassion & Choices and fighting for the equal treatment of people with disabilities at Disability Rights Louisiana. Amitai earned his BA from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and his JD from the City University of New York School of Law.
Alexandria Huiskens is a Staff Attorney at the American Humanist Association, where she brings experience litigating civil rights claims in federal court. Prior to joining the AHA, she represented individuals in complex employment disputes involving discrimination, retaliation, and harassment. In addition to her litigation work, Alexandria dedicates significant time to pro bono legal efforts focused on civil liberties, individual rights, and expanding access to legal support. As an active member of the National Lawyers Guild, she participates in the Mass Defense and Legal Observer Programs, where she provides legal support to individuals involved in protest movements rooted in racial justice, equity, and global human rights. Alexandria earned a B.A. in Political Science and Sociology from Loyola University Chicago and a J.D. from Chicago-Kent College of Law.