The Interwoven Struggle for Human Rights and Democracy in the U.S., lecture by Margaret Huang, Southern Poverty Law Center

Join the Human Rights Center to commemorate  international Human Rights Day with  this special lecture by Margaret Huang. Margaret’s speech will examine whether democratic governance is essential for the full protection of human rights. She will discuss how the United States history of expanding civic participation in the latter half of the 20th century contributed to increased human rights protections, particularly for minority populations. Beginning with an overview of the civil rights movement, which emphasized voting rights as a critical means to achieve racial equality, her speech will address significant developments including the Supreme Court's decision in Shelby County v. Holder, which undermined the Voting Rights Act. Additionally, she will highlight the recent attacks on democratic practices and civic engagement as attempts to limit or restrict the full exercise of human rights and individual voices. As we prepare for a new federal administration, prioritizing the fight for a multiracial, inclusive democracy is the most effective way to ensure protection of human rights for everyone in the United States.

Margaret Huang is the president and chief executive officer of the Southern Poverty Law Center and its lobbying arm, the SPLC Action Fund. An experienced human rights and racial justice advocate, Huang leads the SPLC in its mission to serve as a catalyst for racial justice in the South, dismantling white supremacy, strengthening intersectional movements and advancing the human rights of all. Full bio here.

Human Rights Day at the Human Rights Center

Professor David Weissbrodt officially launched the Human Rights Center at the University of Minnesota Law School on Human Rights Day - December 10, 1988,  the 40th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Each year we join organizations around the world to mark this day, to reflect on our unique history and mission, and to exchange ideas on new horizons for the local and global human rights movements. 

The Human Rights Center is the hub at the University of Minnesota Law School leading research, advocacy, and education at the cutting-edge of human rights law and practice. We work with partners inside and outside the University of Minnesota - advancing solutions to pressing problems in our state and world and supporting local and global human rights movements.

Full program details to come. Light lunch will be provided.