Category: Events

Monday, April 13, 2026, 7 pm ET Flyer
Module 9: Action Lab: Strategies for Defending Democracy and Human Rights Register here

Human Rights Educators USA’s annual Training as Action Series (TAAS) is a virtual training series focused on bridging personal and collective action on some of the most critical human rights issues of today. TAAS creates an educational space to connect and collaborate with others in human rights education and training. It also gives participants the skills and information needed to take action on rights issues in their communities.

The 2025–2026 Training as Action Series will center on the theme, “Defending Democracy and Human Rights in a Changing World.” This year’s sessions will explore urgent issues such as misinformation, protest rights, climate justice, and digital surveillance, highlighting how human rights education can equip communities to respond with clarity, courage, and collective action. Those who attend six or more sessions will receive a certificate from HRE USA.

See all recordings of past 2025-26 sessions

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

From survivors reclaiming their narratives, to communities rebuilding after conflict, to unlikely acts of courage, justice, and care — these films explore resilience in all its forms.

Welcome Filmmakers

FENICE by Sterling Hampton IV

HOW TO SUE THE KLAN by John Beder (Emmy® Nominated)

EXODUS by Bob Miller

THE REALITY OF HOPE by Joe Hunting

CLASSROOM 4 by Eden Wurmfeld (Oscar® Shortlisted)

FREEDOM (UHURU) by Olz McCoy

IMILLA SKATE: THE CHOLITA SKATERS OF BOLIVIA by Rebecca Basaure and Mariano Carranza

ROOTED IN RESILIENCE: INDIGENOUS WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS LEADING WITH TRADITION by Michelle Alvarado

HEALING THE HEART THROUGH ART by Natsumi Koakutsu

THIS IS WHERE I LEARNED NOT TO SLEEP by Kirsten Kelly and Anne de Mare

THE HIDDEN by Annie Lukowski and BJ Schwartz

 New Films →

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

Monday, March 9, 2026, 7 pm ET 

Register here

 Flyer 

This module examines how digital technologies, including AI, surveillance systems, and data collection, impact democratic participation and individual rights. Participants will explore the ethical, legal, and social implications of emerging technologies on privacy, freedom of expression, and civic engagement. The module emphasizes strategies for protecting digital rights, promoting transparency, and fostering informed participation in online and offline democratic spaces. Through case studies and interactive discussions, participants will learn how to navigate the digital landscape responsibly while advocating for inclusive, rights-respecting digital governance.

Human Rights Educators USA’s annual Training as Action Series (TAAS) is a virtual training series focused on bridging personal and collective action on some of the most critical human rights issues of today. TAAS creates an educational space to connect and collaborate with others in human rights education and training. It also gives participants the skills and information needed to take action on rights issues in their communities.

The 2025–2026 Training as Action Series will center on the theme, “Defending Democracy and Human Rights in a Changing World.” This year’s sessions will explore urgent issues such as misinformation, protest rights, climate justice, and digital surveillance, highlighting how human rights education can equip communities to respond with clarity, courage, and collective action. Those who attend six or more sessions will receive a certificate from HRE USA.

Upcoming Session… 

2025–26 TAAS Sessions>> 2025-26 TAAS Flyer >> RegisterModule 8: Digital Rights and Democracy: Navigating AI, Surveillance, and Privacy 🗓️ March 9, 2026    7PM-8:30PM ET >> RegisterModule 9: Action Lab: Strategies for Defending Democracy and Human Rights 🗓️ April 13, 2026    7PM-8:30PM ET >> Register>> See all recordings of past 2025-26 sessions

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

27 award-winning films that examine inequality, dignity, and pathways to change. Storytelling has the power to advance social change — challenging systems, amplifying voices, and sparking action. For World Day of Social Justice, we’ve curated a unique playlist that centers lived experience and spotlights solutions in motion.  Explore Playlist → Playlist Staff Pick  Director: Cinque Northern 27 min | USAWhen Liza Jessie Peterson brings her acclaimed play The Peculiar Patriot to Angola — America’s largest prison plantation — the performance is suddenly shut down. This film uncovers what provoked the closure, the truths that confronted the prison system, and the ripple effects of a visit authorities tried to silence. Watch Now →  Event Invite Institute for Humane Education (IHE) presents Adidas Owns the Reality — World Day of Social Justice Online Film Viewing  Saturday, February 21, 2026 12:00 PM ET | OnlineDirected by Keil Troisi and Igor Vamos, Adidas Owns the Reality exposes the exploitation of underpaid garment workers—and an unconventional, creative-activism strategy designed to raise awareness and hold corporations accountable. This free event will be hosted on the Institute for Humane Education’s Circle community platform. Click below for more info and details on how to join! Sign Up →   SIMA Academy is an award-winning education platform offering curriculum-ready documentaries and film club tools that spark critical thinking, connect learning to real-world issues, and foster engagement and agency across classrooms, networks, and leadership programs.

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

Learn about the UPR: What it is, how it works, and what you can do to engage in the process of shaping human rights in the United States!

This series of webinars and resources around engaging with the Universal Periodic Review of Human Rights (URP) has been coordinated by the a coalition of HRE USA Regional Representatives.

Moving from theory to transformation to assist, support, and collaborate to bring collective, local actions to the United States’ 2026 Universal Periodic Review of Human Rights, this series includes video recordings of our sessions and accompanying learning materials and references.

Monthly series started Thursday, January 29, 2026 and will run through April.

All HRE USA members are encouraged to attend! Webinars are open to the public (so bring a friend!)

Upcoming sessions:

• Session 2: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 • 3pm (PT) / 6pm (ET)
• Session 3:Tuesday, March 10, 2026 • 3pm (PT) / 6pm (ET) 
• Session 4: Tuesday March 24, 2026 • 3pm (PT) / 6pm (ET)
• Session 5: Monday, April 6, 2026 • 3pm (PT) / 6pm (ET)

>> RSVP

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

COMMUNITY-BASED RITES OF PASSAGE PROGRAM

REGISTER NOW!

February 19, 2026

Sandy Sohcot will be conducting an international training with Yvonne Vissing, Frederick Marx, Bruno Annetta, and Bruce Lesley about how communities and organizations can develop a Rite of Passage Program.

Join us to gain information on how to put in place effective and meaningful rites of passage that enrich all participants, build social capital for your community, and ultimately generate vitality and positive engagement for everyone.

This training will occur on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 12:00 noon EST. It will be free and open to the public on Zoom.

WEBINAR OBJECTIVES:

·   Provide information on the factors that contribute to having vibrant communities with healthy, engaged youth and adults;

·   Offer insights about the challenges youth are confronting that impact their well-being;

·   Present information about rites-of-passage, how they can help build vital connections across generations and contribute positively to all members of the community, and how to implement them;

·   Present information on other practices and cognitive tools that support effective rites-of-passage

THE WORLD AS IT COULD BE HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION PROGRAM (TWAICB)

IS PART OF THE INITIATIVE FOR CIVILITY IN EVERYDAY LIFE

Together we Present

COMMUNITY BASED RITES OF PASSAGE FOR YOUTH – WHY AND HOW

WEBINAR ON FEBRUARY 19, 2026, NOON-1:30 Eastern Standard Time

With support from Salem State University Center for Childhood & Youth Studies and Human Rights Educators (HRE) USA

 Contact yvonne@theworldasitcouldbe.org if you need more information.

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

This module examines how systemic inequalities related to gender and disability affect access to and participation in democracy. Participants will explore barriers that limit civic engagement and learn strategies to center marginalized voices. The module emphasizes inclusive civic education that empowers all individuals to engage meaningfully in democratic life.
Register here

Flyer 

Human Rights Educators USA’s annual Training as Action Series (TAAS) is a virtual training series focused on bridging personal and collective action on some of the most critical human rights issues of today. TAAS creates an educational space to connect and collaborate with others in human rights education and training. It also gives participants the skills and information needed to take action on rights issues in their communities.

The 2025–2026 Training as Action Series will center on the theme, “Defending Democracy and Human Rights in a Changing World.” This year’s sessions will explore urgent issues such as misinformation, protest rights, climate justice, and digital surveillance, highlighting how human rights education can equip communities to respond with clarity, courage, and collective action. Those who attend six or more sessions will receive a certificate from HRE USA.

Upcoming Session… 

2025–26 TAAS Sessions>> 2025-26 TAAS Flyer >> RegisterModule 7: Intersectional Democracy: Gender and Disability Rights 🗓️ February 9, 2026    7PM-8:30PM ET >> RegisterModule 8: Digital Rights and Democracy: Navigating AI, Surveillance, and Privacy 🗓️ March 9, 2026    7PM-8:30PM ET >> RegisterModule 9: Action Lab: Strategies for Defending Democracy and Human Rights 🗓️ April 13, 2026    7PM-8:30PM ET >> Register>> See all recordings of past 2025-26 sessions

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

Register

On Monday, February 2, 2026, historian Jarvis Givens joins Rethinking Schools executive director Cierra Kaler-Jones and editor Jesse Hagopian to discuss his latest book, I’ll Make Me a World: The 100-Year Journey of Black History Month. Drawing on archival research, personal stories involving family and students, and especially the wisdom of Black educators, Givens recovers the legacy of Carter G. Woodson and many others who envisioned Black history as a liberatory force — knowledge that shapes who we are, how we resist, and what we dream. Givens will also talk about the Black Teacher Archive and another new book, American Grammar: Race, Education, and the Building of a Nation.

Jarvis Givens is a professor of education and faculty affiliate in the department of African & African American studies at Harvard University. As an interdisciplinary scholar, he specializes in 19th and 20th century African American history, history of education, and theories of race and power in education. Givens is the author of Fugitive Pedagogy: Carter G. Woodson and the Art of Black Teaching, American Grammar: Race, Education, and the Building of a Nation, and I’ll Make Me a World: The 100-Year Journey of Black History Month.

ASL interpretation provided.

Professional development credit certificate provided upon request for attendees.

These online classes with people’s historians are held at least once a month (generally on Mondays) at for 75 minutes. In each session, the historian is interviewed by a teacher and breakout rooms allow participants to meet each other in small groups, discuss the content, and share teaching ideas. We designed the sessions for teachers and other school staff. Parents, students, and others are also welcome to participate.

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.

Calling all human rights educators and advocates! The members of the HRE USA Regional Reps are coordinating a series of webinars to move from theory to transformation to assist, support, and collaborate to bring collective, local actions to the United States’ 2026 Universal Periodic Review of Human Rights. 

Learn about the UPR: What it is, how it works, and what you can do to engage in the process of shaping human rights in the United States!

Monthly series starts Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 3pm (PT) / 6pm (ET) and will run through April. All HRE USA members are encouraged to attend! Webinars are open to the public (so bring a friend!) 

>> RSVP

Questions? Email us at reps@hreusa.org

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.