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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Join us for the Stephen and Chacke Scallen Lecture in Human Rights and a panel discussion with local human rights defenders. Friday, October 9 4-7:00 PM Elmer L. Andersen Library Learn more and RSVP: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

Silhouette of protestors in front of a globe. Event info in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Master of Human Rights alum Moira Villiard (MHR ‘26) has always been an artist. “Art is connected to human rights in that it can be more than a tool,” she says. “The way that we are advocates is an art form itself." Read more here: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

Moira Villiard presenting her Chief Buffalo Memorial mural. More information in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

Human Rights Watch has launched a new report on the human rights crisis caused by the U.S. Federal Government in Minnesota during Operation Metro Surge. This report is a step towards ensuring accountability and justice are achieved. www.hrw.org/report/2026/...

Protestors holding anti-ICE signs by a bus stop in Minneapolis.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

Congratulations to recent Master of Human Rights graduate Aidan Thomason (MHR '26) on receiving the Frey Fellowship! The Fellowship supports a year of paid, full-time employment in the field of human rights. Aidan will begin her Fellowship with Amnesty International USA.

Aidan Thomason wearing a graduation stoll. More information in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

Happy Pride Month! June is a time to celebrate and embrace our LGBTQIA+ community and acknowledge the continuing struggle for rights. We must uplift LGBTQIA+ voices and continue to advocate for their fundamental human rights-- during Pride Month and every month.

LGBTQIA+ Rights Are Human Rights. People waving Pride flags.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 10/06/2026

We are thrilled to introduce our new Human Writes student editor, Hugo Breese! Hugo is a rising junior studying political science and Spanish studies. Hugo has contributed several pieces to the Human Writes blog, and has been a part of the Human Rights Working Group since 2025. Welcome, Hugo!

Graphic announcing new employee Hugo Breese, who is pictured in front of trees. More information in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

HRP is thrilled to welcome our new student program and communications assistant, Elizabeth Gust! Elizabeth is a rising senior studying English and political science with a minor in environmental geosciences. She is excited to begin this role with HRP! Welcome, Elizabeth!

Graphic announcing new employee Elizabeth Gust, who is pictured sitting in front of mountains. More information in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

"Parental Incarceration & Children's Human Rights" has won the Inclusion Award for Community Building from the Association of Professional Schools in International Affairs. HRP and Children of Incarcerated Caregivers addressed the issue of parental incarceration and protect children’s rights.

Participants in the Parental Incarceration and Children's Human Rights project pose in front of a window. Graphic announcing the project receiving the APSIA Inclusion Award for Community Building. Information in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 15/05/2026

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Our students bring their passion for human rights to our campus and communities through local, domestic, and international human rights work. They are crucial members of our local and global human rights movement. We can’t wait to see what they do next!

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 13/05/2026

The Minnesota's Human Rights Stories Oral History Project (MHRO) archives the informative and inspiring stories of Minnesota-based human rights activists and leaders who are recognized as leaders in the field of international human rights. Read more and listen to the interviews: z.umn.edu/MHRO

Barbara Frey, Bella Minahan and Kathryn Sikkink featured on Minnesota Human Rights Stories Oral History Project graphic.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

We are thrilled to announce the amazing students who are recipients of our Spring 2026 scholarships and fellowships! Our graduate and undergraduate award winners will be interning at leading human rights organizations, writing for human rights, and more. Read about them: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

Congratulations to our spring scholarship and fellowship awardees!

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 04/05/2026

Congratulations to Amelia Shindelar, Director of the Human Rights Initiative, who has received the University’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Graduate and Professional Education! Amelia is an exceptional force behind human rights instruction, programming, research, and mentorship.

Photo of Amelia Shindelar, winner of the University of Minnesota's award for the Outstanding Contributions to Graduate and Professional Education

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 09/04/2026

Over 100 human rights scholars and experts on international law have signed an open letter raising profound concerns about U.S. government violations of human rights and international law in its war against Iran. Read more: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

cla.umn.edu

Human Rights Experts Sign Open Letter on Iran

Human rights scholars and experts on international law have signed an open letter raising profound concerns about U.S. government violations of human rights and international law in its war against Iran.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 02/04/2026

As the 25-26 Frey Fellow, Master of Human Rights alum Léocadia Tchouaffé (MHR '25) is bridging global and domestic human rights advocacy at the Southern Poverty Law Center. Learn more about the Frey Fellowship and Léocadia's work at SPLC! cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

Leocadia Tchouaffe speaks into a microphone.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 01/04/2026

Apartheid may have fallen, but its shadow lingers. Join us on April 3 for a screening of Legacy: Apartheid's Shadow, a documentary on the continued impacts of one of history's most brutal regimes. Lunch is served at 12:30pm, followed by the 1:00pm screening and a Q&A with director Tara Moore.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 26/03/2026

Join the Human Rights Program for live music with Brass Solidarity and a panel discussion on artivism and creative resistance to state violence. Together we’ll explore creative tactics that build community solidarity while advancing justice and rights. cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

Event graphic with image of the members of the Brass Solidarity band posing outside. Event details in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 25/03/2026

Join the RIDGS Global Asia(s) Working Group for this conversation on how traditional methods of anti-imperialist printmaking methods can be mobilized in our current moment. The event will feature a panel discussion and a hands-on printmaking activity. cla.umn.edu/ridgs/news-e...

Event graphic with a woodcutting artwork. Event info in caption.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 25/03/2026

Join Master of Human Rights student Darlington Seghbean for a discussion about his new book. We Had to Run tells the story of the shared immigrant experience of living in the United States under Temporary Protected Status, through the lens of the Liberian community. cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 23/03/2026

Amna Chaudhry reflects on her experience as the 2025-2026 Scribe for Human Rights and the process of drafting her novel on three female textile workers in Pakistan. She will discuss more at the event “Exploring Feminist Resistance through Fiction”, Thurs., Mar. 26, 2:30-3:30pm. Read and learn more!

cla.umn.edu

Amna Chaudhry Explores the Conditions of Female Textile Workers in Pakistan

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) student and 2025-2026 Scribe for Human Rights Amna Chaudhry reflects on her experience as a Scribe and the process of drafting her novel on three female textile workers in Pa...

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Reposted by UMN Human Rights Program

Department of Anthropology, University of Minnesota @umnanth.bsky.social · 16/03/2026

Join us as we welcome April Kamp-Whittaker to present her talk titled Networks at Play: Sports and the Archaeology of Community in a WWII Japanese American Incarceration Center. The talk will be held in Humphrey 25 on March 23rd at 4pm. Register at z.umn.edu/Networks_at_...

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 25/02/2026

Students are cultivating a space for community and conversation around human rights at Brewing Justice Coffee Hours, organized by the Human Rights Program’s Undergraduate Working Group. Read more about how coffee hours is expanding networks of human rights solidarity in our new feature article!

cla.umn.edu

Bridging Knowledge, Building Community, Brewing Justice

Students cultivate a space for community and conversation around human rights at Brewing Justice Coffee Hours.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 16/02/2026

As an advocacy intern with the ACLU-MN, MHR student Beate Kuhns (MHR ‘26) amplified the stories of individuals from across Minnesota, supporting the Smart Justice fellowship and Restore the Vote outreach. Her experience reinvigorated her commitment to protecting human rights in her future career.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 12/02/2026

Master of Human Rights student Peter Klicker (MHR ‘27) was interviewed in the LGBTQ Nation article, “Be like Sarah: A trans veteran describes his gold standard for LGBTQ+ advocacy.” lgbtqnation.com/2026/01/be-like-sarah-a-trans-veteran-describes-his-gold-standard-for-lgbtq-advocacy/

lgbtqnation.com

Be like Sarah: A trans veteran describes his gold standard for LGBTQ+ advocacy - LGBTQ Nation

"We need our LGBTQ+ representatives to stand up to the bullsh*t."

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 12/02/2026

Carrie Walling shared her thoughts on the German podcast, "Everything Alright, America?" The episode, "When rules no longer matter: Is the USA drifting into autocracy?," discusses the presence of federal agents in Minnesota. Listen to the full episode: www.tagesanzeiger.ch/minneapolis-...

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 10/02/2026

Join us on Monday, March 2 at 12:00 PM CST for a virtual webinar with journalist John Dinges. Dinges was one of few American journalists present for the coup in Chile and the establishment of the dictatorship of Gen. Augusto Pinochet. Learn more and register: globalminnesota.org/event/chile-...

Book cover of Chile in Their Hearts, by John Dinges. March 2 - 12:00 PM CST. Virtual. Register at globalminnesota.org. Sponsor logos.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

The Black Europe Film Festival (BEFF) is a celebration of Afro-European cinema, returning to the Twin Cities February 19–22. Films span geographies and genres but focus on a shared theme: Afro-Pasts, Afro-Futures. This project is supported by a grant from the Human Rights Initiative. beffmsp.com

Poster for Black Europe Film Festival, "Afro-Pasts, Afro-Futures. February 19-22. The Main Cinema, Capri Theater. Celebrate Black History Month at the movies. beffmsp.org."

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 05/02/2026

Join Human Rights Educators USA’s Training as Action Series for their next session on Feb 9 at 6PM CST. The workshop, “Intersectional Democracy: Gender and Disability Rights,” examines how systemic inequalities affect participation in democracy. hreusa.org/projects/tra...

Human Rights Educators USA Training As Action Series, Module 7: Intersectional Democracy: Gender and Disability Rights, Monday, February 9, 6:00 PM CST, Virtual.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 04/02/2026

On January 23, leading community voices joined together for a series of virtual panel discussions exploring how liberal arts expertise shapes our understanding of today’s most pressing civic issues. Listen to HRP Director Carrie Walling’s remarks as a panelist for one of the sessions.

cla.umn.edu

Liberal Arts in Action: Responding to This Historic Moment

Join leading scholars, journalists, and community voices for panel discussions exploring how liberal arts expertise shapes our understanding of today’s pressing civic issues.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

HRP Director Carrie Walling was interviewed on Kare11 News for a segment on the impact of conflict on cities and human rights. youtu.be/QNRWnHM0HSM?...

youtu.be

How is Minneapolis affected by long-term conflict?

YouTube video by KARE 11

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

University of Minnesota human rights scholars have released a letter to honor the memory of alumnus Alex Pretti, who was killed while defending the human rights of others in Minneapolis. Read the full letter: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

cla.umn.edu

Honoring the Memory of Alex Pretti

Human rights scholars affiliated with the Human Rights Program honor and mourn the life of Alex Pretti.

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Reposted by UMN Human Rights Program

Immigration History Research Center @ihrc-umn.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

The Federal Law Enforcement Presence and Human Rights Accountability: What Next for MN? Feb 5 at 4:30 Central In person and online. More info and register at www.hhh.umn.edu/event/federa... @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social @umnlawschool.bsky.social @migrationcollab.bsky.social @iehs.bsky.social

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 21/01/2026

On a state-wide day of reflection, join us for a series of virtual panel discussions. Topics: the evolving role of media in democracy, constitutional rights and public safety, the impact of community narratives on policy. Fri, Jan 23 | 9:15-2:30 z.umn.edu/liberal-arts-action #DayOfTruthAndFreedom

Sillhouette of state of Minnesota with text: Liberal Arts in Action, Responding to This Historic Moment.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 13/01/2026

Charlotte Charlaque's story traces the history of Germany's transgender political movement and the destruction of its progress during the rise of the Nazi regime. Join us for this talk at 6pm on January 27 at Queermunity. RSVP here: z.umn.edu/jan27

Portrait of Charlotte Charlaque. Text: Transgender Jews and the Holocaust: The Story of Charlotte Charlaque. Tuesday, January 27, 6:00 PM, Queermunity.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 17/12/2025

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Human Rights Day Symposium! 34 undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students presented their posters on human rights issues. We were honored to welcome Paul O’Brien, executive director of Amnesty International USA, for the keynote address.

Paul O'Brien stands on stage and delivers the keynote address. His hand is raised towards the audience.

A student presents a poster at the poster session.

Students present their posters at the poster session.

Overhead view of the poster session in Mondale Commons at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. Students present and discuss with people in rows of poster boards.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 17/12/2025

We are pleased to share this Star Tribune article highlighting our Human Rights Day Symposium, including an interview with Amnesty International USA Executive Director Paul O'Brien applauding the University of Minnesota's strong reputation for human rights work. www.startribune.com/us-human-rig...

startribune.com

Rash: Minnesota brings ‘a breath of energy’ to human rights advocacy

From columnist John Rash: A growing snowstorm didn’t deter attendees to the Human Rights Day Symposium at the U Dec. 9. Many were eager to hear from keynote speaker Paul O’Brien, executive director of...

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 02/12/2025

Master of Human Rights student Aidan Thomason's summer internship at the United Nations Human Rights Office affirmed her commitment to defending human rights and illuminated new career paths. Read more about Aidan's experience: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

cla.umn.edu

A World of Possibilities: An Internship with the UN Illuminates New Ways to Make a Difference

As an intern with the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Aidan Thomason (MHR ‘26) collaborated with human rights defenders from across the globe.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 20/11/2025

Today is Give to the Max Day! As a Fraser Fellow, Isabella Minahan (CLA '25) was able to fully devote herself to a hands-on experience that helped her prepare for a future in human rights advocacy. Support the Fraser Fellowships TODAY! crowdfund.umn.edu/participants... #UMNGive #UMNproud #GTMD25

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 19/11/2025

We are thrilled to welcome Paul O'Brien, executive director of Amnesty International, as the keynote speaker for the Human Rights Day Symposium! Paul O'Brien will deliver his talk titled, "Human Rights Activism in a World of Growing Authoritarian Practices." Learn more: z.umn.edu/HRDSymposium2025

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 18/11/2025

As a Don Fraser Fellow interning with The Advocates for Human Rights, Manushri Ivaturi (CLA '25) conducted research on country-specific conditions and their human rights standards. Support the Fraser Fellowships on Give to the Max Day! crowdfund.umn.edu/participants... #UMNGive #UMNproud #GTMD25

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 13/11/2025

As an Arvonne Fraser Fellow, Dante Rocío assisted with the Universal Periodic Review and investigated case studies of how people engage with the UN. Support the Fraser Fellowships on or before #GTMD25 on Thursday, November 20! Visit crowdfund.umn.edu/participants... to donate.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 12/11/2025

The Fraser Fellowships support undergraduate students interning at leading human rights organizations. Support the Fraser Fellowships on or before Give to the Max Day on November 20: crowdfund.umn.edu/participants... www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7a6...

youtube.com

Fraser Fellowships Support Future Human Rights Leaders

YouTube video by Human Rights Program-University of Minnesota

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 06/11/2025

Support the Fraser Fellowships on Give to the Max Day! Interning at The Advocates for Human Rights, Libby Nemitz expanded her understanding of UN systems and human rights courts, and gained valuable legal writing and analytical skills. crowdfund.umn.edu/participants/hrp #UMNGive #UMNproud #gtmd25

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 06/11/2025

Join Human Rights Educators USA’s Training as Action Series (TAAS) for their next session, "Human Rights Education as a Response to Polarization,” on Monday, November 10, at 6:00 PM CST. Learn more and register: hreusa.org/projects/tra...

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 04/11/2025

Join us for the second annual Human Rights Day Symposium! The symposium includes a student poster session and a keynote address. This year, we welcome Paul O’Brien, executive director of Amnesty International, to deliver the keynote address. Learn more and RSVP: z.umn.edu/HRDSymposium2025

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 31/10/2025

This summer, undergraduate students Libby Nemitz (CLA ‘26) and Dante Rocío (CLA ‘26) interned for The Advocates for Human Rights with the support of the Fraser Fellowships. Read more: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

cla.umn.edu

2025 Fraser Fellows Keep the Passion for Human Rights Alive

This summer, Libby Nemitz (CLA ‘26) and Dante Rocío (CLA ‘26) gained hands-on human rights experience at The Advocates for Human Rights.

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 29/10/2025

Professor Luis Ramos-Garcia has led a project to give voice to the victims of human rights violations through art. Women in Peril serves to archive the experiences of victims of human rights violations. Read more about Professor Ramos-Garcia's work: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

Artistic background with a photo of Professor Luis Ramos Garcia. Text reads "Women in Peril: Where Suffering and Healing Meet. Professor Luis Ramos-Garcia's project gives voice to the victims of human rights violations through art."

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 23/10/2025

Thank you to everyone who attended the Scallen Lecture with Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders. Ms. Lawlor's inspiring address highlighted the importance of protecting human rights defenders. Watch the keynote: www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9ba...

Mary Lawlow and Carrie Walling sit in front of the Human Rights Program banner with microphones in hand. Carrie is watching and listening to Mary as she answer a question.

Mary Lawlor sits in front of the Human Rights Program banner listening to questions from the audience.

Mary Lawlor stands behind the Human Rights Program podium with her hands facing outward. She is giving a speech.

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Reposted by UMN Human Rights Program

Mary Lawlor @marylawlorhrds.bsky.social · 08/10/2025

I look forward to this @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social event where I will discuss human rights defenders and their place in the USA and the world. 🗓️ Mon 20 October 🕓 4-6pm 📍 Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Minneapolis ℹ️ Registration & details: cla.umn.edu/human-rights...

cla.umn.edu

United Nations Special Rapporteur Mary Lawlor

Join us for a keynote lecture with Mary Lawlor, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders.

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Reposted by UMN Human Rights Program

Immigration History Research Center @ihrc-umn.bsky.social · 09/10/2025

We are thrilled to announce the 1st annual Hitti lecture on Nov. 5 at the Weisman Art Museum feat. Charlotte Karem Albrecht speaking about Possible Histories: Arab Americans and the Queer Ecology of Peddling. More info and rsvp at z.umn.edu/HittiLecture @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social

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UMN Human Rights Program @uofmhumanrights.bsky.social · 03/10/2025

The Human Rights Program’s 2024-2025 Annual Report is now available! The Annual Report provides an in-depth review of our work and highlights the major events, initiatives, and people that have contributed to the success of HRP in the 2024-2025 academic year. pub.umn.edu/hrp/HRP-Annu...

pub.umn.edu

Human Rights Program 2025 Annual Report

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