News & Updates

Webinar on Human Rights in National Security: An Educator’s Toolkit

by hreusa

Join Amnesty International for a webinar that will explore how to use their newest resource, Human Rights in National Security: An Educator’s Toolkit.

When: Aug 9, 2017 8:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Topic: Security with Human Rights Webinar 

Human Rights in National Security: An Educator’s Toolkit provides lesson plans and activities to equip educators to discuss post-9/11 national security and human rights issues in the classroom. Further, it includes actions for students to take on issues of national security and human rights.

The toolkit is free for educators and intended for students ages 16-20. The materials are highly relevant across a number of academic disciplines: public policy, civics, government, religious studies, film, journalism, social studies, war and peace studies, and more. The toolkit contains four modules: 1) Introduction to Human Rights and National Security, 2) Global War and Drone Strikes, 3) Detention and Torture, 4) Discrimination and Surveillance.

>> Learn more and download toolkit
>> Register for webinar

Journeys in Film

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Journeys in Film is a nonprofit organization that works in partnership with the University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education. In keeping with its mission to improve learning in urban education locally, nationally, and globally, Rossier’s Journeys in Film project combine the power of moving and provocative films with the highest quality standards-based, interdisciplinary lesson plans to inspire and engage students in active learning.

Journeys in Film selects powerful, age-appropriate documentaries and foreign films that transport students beyond borders and boundaries, provide insight, transform preconceptions and prejudices, and foster genuine cultural understanding. Although not explicitly based in human rights, the lesson plans address global issues of great human rights importance.

Particularly recommended to human rights educators are two of their latest curriculum guides to recent films and publications:

  1. National Geographic’s “Gender Revolution”: A discussion guide to accompany National Geographic’s January 2017 special edition that addresses gender issues from a scientific and global perspective. The companion video produced by Katie Couric further extends the understanding of gender.
  2. Hidden Figures: A discussion guide to this recent film about the inspiring persistence of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three African-American scientists, addresses both gender and racial discrimination.

These curriculum guides, as well as other educational resources, are available at no cost from their website.

 >> Learn more

Youth Leadership Symposium in Bangok

by hreusa

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and Humanitarian Affairs UK are excited to announce an exceptional opportunity for young leaders wishing to advance their leadership skills and knowledge in an international setting at the week-long prestigious 8th edition of the University Scholars Leadership Symposium 2017 from August 1 to 7 at the United Nations in Bangkok, Thailand. 1,000 competent and compassionate student leaders will join in this largest youth gathering for Emerging Young Leaders.

The theme of the Symposium is “Building Life, Giving Hope.” The purpose is to instil a sense of social responsibility as well as to cultivate the attributes of selfless giving among emerging world leaders. Delegates will have the opportunity to expand their professional network and understanding of world affairs. As part of the symposium, the UNDP will lead the 5 thematic workshop discussions which will focus on 5 of the SDGs:

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Young leaders between the ages of 18 to 30 with exceptional leadership skills. great knowledge on current world affairs. and a strong desire to build a sustainable and just world are encouraged to apply.

Application Deadline: June 30th

To apply, send your CV and Delegate Application form by June 30th to Ms. Carla Millares: carla.millares@humanitarianaffairs.org

>> For more information visit the website and e-brochure.  You can also access to the UNDP letter.

Safe Zone School Districts

by hreusa

A pragmatic approach to immigration is critical for our students –the center of our communities. All students should have the opportunity to learn without the fear and distress that results from harsh immigration enforcement. Educators are witnessing the impact of this trauma on our students, their families and our communities firsthand.

NEA has developed sample resolution and district policy that can be used as a template or guidance for local school districts to create their own Safe Zones resolutions. The language is closely tied to the Supreme Court case Plyler v. Doe which is the foundational precedent establishing that access to K-12 education is a civil right. The model resolution contains reassurances for students, procedures for law enforcement, and information and support for families and staff. Several school districts across the country have passed their own safe zone resolutions. Click on the map above to see where school districts have passed or are considering Safe Zones policies.

Stand Up for Immigrant Students and Communities

by hreusa

Our nation’s prosperity has always depended on the contributions of diverse and vibrant immigrant communities. The fabric of the American dream is woven tightly with the millions upon millions of stories of strivers and dreamers.

A pragmatic approach to immigration is critical for our students –the center of our communities. All students should have the opportunity to learn without the fear and distress that result from unfair immigration policies. Educators are witnessing the impact of this trauma on for our students, their families and our communities firsthand.

Pledge To Support LGBTQ Equality

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According to the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network’s 2013 National Safe Schools Survey, 55.5% of LGBTQ students felt unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation, while 37.8% felt unsafe because of their gender expression. Additionally, 71.4% of LGBTQ students heard “gay” used in a negative way (e.g., “that’s so gay”) frequently or often at school, and 90.8% reported that they felt distressed because of this language.

Educators are uniquely positioned to address these issues and work towards creating a safe, supportive and affirming school environment for LGBTQ students. Every student deserves the right to attend a school that fully embraces them for who they are and allows them to achieve to their full potential. Educators are a powerful force in creating an LGBTQ-affirming school.