‘Human Rights 101’ Explores the History and Context of Essential Rights

In a time when human rights issues are often clouded by politics and jargon, the Moscow Human Rights Commission invites community members to gain a fresh and meaningful understanding at “Human Rights 101” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

In honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, panelists will share the evolving definitions and history of human rights, explain the current focus of human rights work, and explore pressing future issues. The discussion will range from the local to the global, including vital Tribal issues in the Pacific Northwest, the rise of antisemitism and Islamophobia, and racism and other structural oppressions.

The event will include an audience question-and-answer session and opportunities for attendees to learn how they can become more involved in human rights work.

The panelists are: Dr. Sydney Freeman, Jr., founder and director of the University of Idaho Black History Research Lab; Aiyana James, climate resilience coordinator for Coeur d’Alene Tribe; Ryan Lincoln, assistant clinical professor at the U of I College of Law; Dr. Erin Damman, clinical associate professor in the U of I International Studies Program; and Jeanette Laster, executive director of the Human Rights Education Institute in Coeur d’Alene. Human Rights Commission vice chair Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Stevens will serve as moderator.

A YouTube link to watch virtually will be available on the City of Moscow Facebook “Human Rights 101” event page.