|
Overview of the Journeys for Justice Program:
Journeys for Justice are an innovative approach to bringing international attention to the critical issues RFK Human Rights Award Laureates champion to resolve. The program provides human rights supporters the unique opportunity to join high- profile delegations led by the Kennedy family. Delegation members meet with the Laureates and the beneficiaries of their efforts, and speak with people affected by gross human rights violations. Additionally, members meet with the leaders of the countries visited, prominent local and national governmental officials and other stakeholders.
Having acquired an intimate perspective on some of todayís most provocative social injustices, Delegation members utilize their experience to advocate on behalf of the Laureates. Members broaden American and international public's interest through press conferences, and assist in fundraising to initiate social change projects.
Past Journeys for Justice to Liberia:
July 2004
Kerry Kennedy, as a board member Robert F. Kennedy Memorial, in 10-18 July 2004 led the Center for Human Rights Journey for Justice delegation to Liberia at the request of Robert F. Kennedy 1999 Human Rights Award Laureate Archbishop Michael Kpakala Francis, the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission, the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia and the Archdiocese of Monrovia. The delegation met with key government officials, such as the Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), members of governmental commissions, leaders of civic and religious organizations, representatives of various UN agencies, including the Special Representative of the Secretary General of the UN and Head of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), and with ordinary citizens of Liberia. The purpose of the delegation was to garner international attention for the need to support disarmament, demobilization of the warring factions, and retraining of the army, police and security forces, to foster the proper environment for free and fair national elections. The delegation produced the report Forgotten Focus: Human Rights, and the Role of Civil Society Organizations in the Liberian Peace Process.
Read Kerry Kennedy's Article on the Journey to Liberia
Read the Transcript of Kerry Kennedy's Briefing to the United Nations on the Volatile Situation in Liberia and the Serious Risks for the Peace Process
Currently the Center for Human Rights is not planning any future Journeys for Justice to Liberia but if you are interested in learning more about our projects with Archbishop Francis please contact Sushetha Gopallawa (202) 463-7575 x270, gopallawa@rfkmemorial.org
Click here to learn more about the Center for Human Rights' other Journeys for Justice
|
