Public Statement: Violence Against Our Elected Officials is a Threat on Democracy

Aug 18, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments #Statements

Public Statement: Violence Against Our Elected Officials is a Threat on Democracy

Dear Community,

Journey to the Center is deeply disturbed by the recent threats of violence targeting Judge Tanya Chutkan, Representative Shelia Jackson and US President, Joe Biden. These reprehensible incidents strike at the heart of our democracy, endangering the very essence of public service and intimidating those who represent and lead our nation.

Judge Tanya Chutkan and representative Sheila Jackson — Courtesy of The Hill

It is deeply troubling to read such acts of unprovoked hostility aimed at impeding Chutkan, Jackson and President Biden’s ability to judge, legislate and to safely serve within the Executive Office.

When citizens threaten violence against our public officials, they erode foundational principles that underpin the human right to life. Fear and intimidation obstruct the open exchange of ideas, hinder the respectful dialogue needed to address critical issues, and ultimately weaken our ability to focus on collectively building a better future for all.

Today, Journey to the Center wholeheartedly recognizes the immense challenges our public officials face while striving to fulfill their duties and responsibilities. As with the incidents above, the US Government invoked a legitimate ground for restricting freedom of expression, demonstrated the precise nature of the threat, and the necessity and proportionality of the specific action taken. See Shin v. Republic of Korea (CCPR/C/80/D/926/2000), at para. 35. More specifically, the US Government was able to established a direct and immediate connection between the expression and the threats.

“When a State party invokes a legitimate ground for restriction of freedom of expression, it must demonstrate in specific and individualized fashion the precise nature of the threat, and the necessity and proportionality of the specific action taken, in particular by establishing a direct and immediate connection between the expression and the threat.”

Human Rights Committee, General Comment 34 (2011)

Moreover, Journey to the Center calls upon all individuals, irrespective of their political affiliations, to denounce the promotion of violence and intimidation. Let us create an environment that fosters empathy, respect, and understanding, where public servants can perform their vital roles.

In times like these, it is imperative that we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, even if we believe she has disappeared. We must safeguard the fundamental right to express differing opinions and engage in robust discourse, as this is the only way the seeds of democratic processes in our nation can blossom.

Our country thrives when citizens hold our elected officials responsible via the media, human rights apparatuses, blogs and the ballot box. It is requested that you exercise your voices there.

Journey to the Center

ICERD

Profile of Derek Diaz: Victim of Orlando Police Shooting

Jul 13, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments #GR A/60/18

Profile of Derek Diaz: Victim of Orlando Police Shooting

Name: Derek Diaz

Age: 26

Gender: Male

Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latino

Background

Derek Diaz was a 26-year-old Hispanic/Latino man living in Orlando, Florida, prior to his untimely death. There is limited information available about his personal background and upbringing, but it can be inferred that he was a member of a close-knit family.

Incident Overview

On July 3, 2023, Diaz was involved in a tragic incident that resulted in his death. The events unfolded when officers from the Orlando Police Department met Diaz in his car on Jefferson Street and North Orange Avenue. Body camera footage, released by the police department, depicts the encounter between Diaz and the responding officers.

Body-worn camera footage also show Diaz complying with the officers commands when they arrived on the scene. After Diaz reached into the console, the situation quickly escalated.

Review of the video further depicts an officer shooting into Diaz’s vehicle, despite him not having a weapon. He succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

There was no attempt by the officers to de-escalate or use less lethal means to control the situation.

Family Reaction and Public Outrage

Diaz’s family expressed their grief and shock at the actions of the police officers during the incident. Their attorney, Ben Crump, spoke on their behalf, demanding justice and calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Diaz’s death.

Firearm violence in the US has sparked widespread public outrage. Based on the reporting of Matt Trezza, dozens of people marched through the streets of Daytona Beach the same week calling for an end to gun violence.

Human Rights Defender, Quianna Canada has criticized the officers’ response. According to Canada, “there needs to be improved de-escalation approaches and increased accountability in law enforcement encounters.”

Impact and Analysis

Diaz’s death served as a catalyst for renewed discussions around police use of force and the treatment of minority communities by law enforcement.

“There should be legislative changes, adherence to international standards of policing and the implementation of a de-escalation unit to handle complex situations without resorting to lethal force,” says Canada.

Canon 4 urges “law enforcement officials, in carrying out their duty, to apply non-violent means before resorting to the use of force and firearms.”

While the full details of Diaz’s personal life has yet to be disclosed, his tragic death has left an indelible impact on his family and the wider community.

The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and controversies surrounding police encounters in the US, inspiring ongoing efforts to address systemic issues within the area of American policing.

Announcements

Introducing an International Human Rights Perspective: Exciting Changes and Updates to JTC Await!

Jul 9, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments #Website Changes

Introducing an International Human Rights Perspective: Exciting Changes and Updates to JTC Await!

Dear Readers,

I am pleased to announce some significant improvements to this public watchdog platform, aimed at aligning it with a broader international human rights perspective. To begin with, protests will now be categorized under Article 10, with the tag ‘freedom of expression’, in accordance with recognized international standards.

Additionally, I will be revising certain existing categories and tags to better reflect international law conventions, covenants, and treaties. These changes are intended to enhance the user-friendliness of the website and allow readers to navigate more effectively.

Furthermore, I have decided to redirect my research and expertise away from Central America and focus on the United States and Ireland, given my firsthand experiences within these countries. This adjustment will allow me to offer a more informed and insightful analysis on human rights issues.

I would also like to inform you that I am currently exploring alternative names for the blog. While this process may take some time, I kindly request your patience and understanding.

Rest assured, the core issues that I have been researching and supporting, such as institutional racism, women’s rights, trans women’s rights, police brutality and gun violence, will remain at the forefront of our content.

The research focus on Quianna Canada’s Direct Provision Watch will exclusively concentrate on the aspects of cruel and unusual treatment and punishment within Direct Provision. To gain an in-depth understanding of the issue, it is imperative that I explore instances where individuals have been subjected to cruel, unusual, or degrading treatment within this system. It is therefore requested that anyone who has personal experiences related to such treatment kindly reach out to me, contributing their stories and perspectives. By collecting and analyzing these narratives, my research will aim to shed light on the human rights implications and potential violations associated with the Direct Provision system.

There are still numerous changes in store for this public watchdog blog, so please continue to check for regular updates.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement.

ECHR, Gun Violence US, ICCPR

Examining the Inconsistencies: Why the US Government’s Portrayal of the Kimbrady Case Lacks Credibility

Jul 6, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments #Article 6, #Freedom of Expression

Examining the Inconsistencies: Why the US Government’s Portrayal of the Kimbrady Case Lacks Credibility

First, my heart is heavy with sorrow for all the families in the US who have endured immeasurable pain and irreparable loss, as they bear the unbearable burden of losing a cherished soul to the unforgivable atrocity of the recent act of gun violence that plagues our streets.

Now, to some uncomfortable truths while not losing sight of the horror that guns have caused for so many innocent people: the Kimbrady Carriker case, as portrayed by American media, lacks credibility when examined closely. It is essential to apply critical thinking and thorough analysis to the evidence presented before forming conclusions. When we scrutinize the available information, several inconsistencies and questionable assertions emerge, further weakening the narrative put out by the US government.

To begin, it has been alleged that Kimbrady was a supporter of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. However, if we assume that Kimbrady had extremist tendencies, as it is claimed, it is highly unlikely that their first target would be Black Americans. BLM’s core purpose is to advocate for justice and equality for Black lives, so it is contradictory to suggest that a supposed BLM supporter would target the very community they claim to support. With that said, no individual should be exposed to an act of gun violence on the basis of their skin color, gender identity, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.

Additionally, conflicting reports regarding Kimbrady’s gender identity raise doubts about their status as a transgender individual. Contrary to initial claims, their grandmother stated that Kimbrady was gay, not transgender. It is crucial to respect an individual’s self-identification and avoid making assumptions based solely on external appearances. Merely dressing in clothing associated with a different gender does not automatically indicate transgender identity.

The US further alleges that Kimbrady stated they committed the shooting to address gun violence. However, this assertion is highly questionable, as it goes against the principles of the gun-control movement. Advocates for gun control, like Journey to the Center, firmly believe in resolving issues through peaceful means and would never resort to violence or the use of firearms to further our cause. Therefore, such a claim appears inconsistent with the beliefs of gun-control proponents.

Moreover, we must critically examine the alleged religious affiliation of Kimbrady. While it is true that transgender individuals, including trans women, can be spiritual or religious, linking religious beliefs to the alleged attack lacks evidential support and is misleading.

It’s worth mentioning here that the experiences of transgender women often center around personal gender identity struggles, including discrimination and social exclusion, rather than using religion as a rallying point for violent actions. Studies consistently highlight that violence against transgender individuals is more commonly perpetrated against them rather than by them.

Additionally, the reported facts surrounding the case raise suspicions. While it is true that any individual, regardless of their gender identity, can commit heinous acts, it is vital to carefully evaluate the evidence presented. In this instance, inconsistencies and potential ulterior motives warrant further investigation before making conclusive judgments.

To be sure, a confidential source in the US claims that Kimbrady did not identify as a trans woman but male when booked into custody. This raises compelling doubts about the accuracy of the narrative being disseminated by US media.

It is essential to consider this information, examine all available facts, and be cautious about drawing premature conclusions based on incomplete or inconsistent data put out by our government.

Ultimately, it is imperative for the US to focus on the lives affected by this horrific attack and the broader issue of gun control, rather than perpetuating fear and stigmatizing trans women. Throughout history, marginalized communities have been disproportionately subjected to demonization, while systemic issues remain unaddressed. Indeed, research shows the US’s failure to protect Americans from gun violence may violate international law.

It is high time to shift our collective focus towards preventing future tragedies and creating a society that embraces inclusivity, justice, and understanding. Congress has the power to prevent gun violence in the US. The question is: will they?

In conclusion, the Kimbrady case, as presented, fails to withstand scrutiny when the available evidence is carefully evaluated. It is crucial that we approach this case with discernment, continuously questioning the inconsistencies and biases present in the narrative. Rather than perpetuating fear and stigmatizing marginalized groups, let us prioritize understanding, justice, and comprehensive solutions that genuinely address the root causes of violence and injustice.

ICERD

Country Conditions Researcher: Repealing Qualified Immunity a Critical Step Towards Police Accountability

Jun 22, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments

Country Conditions Researcher: Repealing Qualified Immunity a Critical Step Towards Police Accountability

This statement is in condemnation of the disturbing acts of brutality inflicted upon a defenseless teenager in custody by the hands of Michigan officers sworn to serve and protect. The recent incident has uncovered yet another tragic case of excessive force within the US law enforcement system, emphasizing the urgent need for systematic change. I express my deepest sympathy to the victim and his family, as no individual should ever suffer such brutality at the hands of those entrusted to uphold justice.

This incident highlights a deeply rooted problem and underscores the necessity of immediate action, which the Warren police department did take in this particular case. The Michigan officer was placed on administrative leave and charged with assault and battery. However, I cannot ignore that US judges often acquit police officers who engage in misconduct, as with a Chicago officer who kneeled on a teen’s back.

I also cannot remain silent or ignore the injustices faced by marginalized communities and individuals who are disproportionately affected by police brutality, such as LaDonna Paris, a 70-year-old Phillips Theological graduate student, who Tulsa police officers taunted and mistreated.

After reviewing the footage, I am called on to demand justice for those who are abused by police in the US.

(1) I also call upon the US government to address Paris’ case. I further demand transparency and impartial investigations into this incident, holding those responsible and accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

(2) I further insist on comprehensive and ongoing training for law enforcement officers, particularly in de-escalation techniques and cultural sensitivity, so as to prevent such incidents from reoccurring.

(3) I urge society as a whole to actively engage in dialogue surrounding police brutality and rankism. Individuals with power feel emboldened to abuse marginalized persons because they often lack adequate support systems. By educating ourselves on oppression and advocating for the repeal of the qualified immunity doctrine, we can contribute to dismantling the structures that perpetuate violence and inequality.

We must turn our grief and anger into a force for concrete change. I stand with communities who demand justice and seek to work towards a future where no one experiences the horror and pain of brutality at the hands of those entrusted with their safety.

ECHR

Quianna Canada: Environmental Case Adjournment Minor Setback for Major Come Up

Jun 19, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments #Freedom of Expression

Quianna Canada: Environmental Case Adjournment Minor Setback for Major Come Up.

Justice is a fundamental pillar of any democratic society. It ensures the rights, liberties, and well-being of individuals are protected, and that wrongdoings are appropriately addressed. However, when justice is delayed, the repercussions can be severe, and the entire concept of justice can be undermined.

As the famous saying goes, “justice delayed is justice denied.”

“When I faced an injustice at the Kinsale Road Accommodation Centre, I naturally sought redress through the Courts on Washington Street,” says Quianna Canada, a student, activist and country researcher.

Victims in civil suits, like Canada, often look to the legal system to provide them with a fair and impartial process that will hold wrongdoers accountable and help them find closure. However, if this process is delayed, it may lead to a sense of frustration, loss of faith in the system, and even irreversible harm for those affected. “Not for me,” says Canada. “Delays are simply a minor setback for a major come up. This ‘major come up’ need not be financial; it can often take the form of achieving a much needed discipline. Yes, superficial delays can be frustrating. They are also a signpost that some major influences may be at play. However, this will not stop me, and it shouldn’t stop you.”

The influence toxic authority figures wield over their environment may be another reason why justice plaintiffs cannot access the courts. Toxic authority figures understand delayed justice prolongs suffering, keeping wounds open and increases emotional distress. They also know the plaintiff (victim) may feel ignored, disregarded, or even re-victimized by the system itself.

“This is the effect toxic authority figures want to have on victims, especially those who are fighting their battles alone. However, it’s important for victims to have resilience and not give up. All toxic authority figures have is their ability to oppress; nothing more. It’s a bleak existence,” says Canada. “True leadership is not oppressive, coercive or intimidating. It’s leading from a place of unconditional love, which some powerful people controlling this case know very little about.”

Quianna Canada: Environmental Case Adjournment Minor Setback for Major Come Up

However, research suggest the longer justice is delayed, the harder it becomes to ensure a fair trial and proper resolution. Additionally, if justice is delayed, it allows wrongdoers to further harm the victims who brought a case against the defendants. Such situations undermine the sense of security and trust within the court system, breeding a culture where wrongdoing goes unpunished. “I have total faith that justice will prevail. No Kreeseism, nepotism or toxicity can stop what the Universe has planned,” says Canada.

“Justice delayed will not erode my confidence in the Irish legal system. While I may have no confidence in toxic authority figures, I do have faith that justice will prevail.” Canada further states she will do what she can to build trust; build bonds with these legal systems, even if that means writing more articles about injustice in Ireland.

Can an Immigrant Human Right Defender Bring an Action in Irish Court by Themselves?

Despite the view of some very influential people, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders clarified that “Everyone has the right, individually…to promote and to strive for the protection and realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms at the national and international levels” (See para. 29).

Mrs. Lawlor further articulated that states, such as Ireland, must ensure the rights of human rights defenders are not violated or curtailed because of the work they do. Indeed, Mrs. Lawlor specified that governments must “ensure that human rights defenders have access to justice and to effective remedies through national courts…regardless of their immigration status.”

However, the detrimental effects of delays in delivering justice in Ireland cannot be overstated. It deprives victims of closure, weakens the legal process, creates a culture of impunity, overburdens the legal system, and may erode public trust. “But don’t let it get you down. If there is an injustice, make sure your video record or document it, and then, keep it moving,” says Canada.

Yogykarata Principles

Gone too soon: tributes pour in for black trans woman lost to violence

Jun 13, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments #Principle 4

Gone too soon: tributes pour in for black trans woman lost to violence

As a society, we are often too quick to dismiss the struggles of Black trans women, particularly those who are living on the edge of society. The recent passing of Ashia Davis is a tragedy that highlights the ongoing fight for equality and the need for greater support and acceptance of Black trans women in the LGBTQ+ community.

Transgender individuals, especially Black trans women, face a host of challenges that are not experienced by cisgender individuals.

These include discrimination, violence, harassment, and exclusion from many aspects of society. For Black trans women in the US, these challenges are compounded by ongoing racism and sexism, which can make it even harder to access resources and support.

The loss of Davis is a significant blow to the community, and a reminder of the many obstacles that Black trans women face on a daily basis. It is also a reminder of the need for greater awareness and understanding.

The impact of this loss is felt not only by those who knew Davis personally, but by the broader community as well. It is a loss that highlights the need for greater support and resources for those who are struggling, as well as a call-to-action to address the systemic issues that contribute to the marginalization and discrimination of transgender individuals.

As we mourn the loss of Davis, we must also acknowledge the many other trans women and non-binary persons who have lost their lives in recent years. These individuals are often forgotten or ignored, and their deaths are rarely given the attention and outrage that they deserve.

Gone too soon: tributes pour in for black trans woman lost to violence, who are disproportionately affected.

The fact that Black trans women are disproportionately affected by violence and discrimination is a clear indication that we have a long way to go in terms of achieving true equality and acceptance. It is a reminder of the importance of standing up against hate and bigotry, and of the need for greater empathy and understanding of those who are different from ourselves.

We must also recognize the ways in which our own biases and prejudices contribute to the marginalization of transgender individuals. By examining our own beliefs and attitudes, we can begin to challenge the systemic issues that perpetuate discrimination and create a more inclusive and compassionate society.

SPECIAL MENTION SECTION

SYLVA TUKULA

We must also mourn the loss of Sylva Tukula, who died while housed in the Great Western Direct Provision Centre on August 2, 2018.

As we mourn the loss of Davis, and observe the passing of Tukula, we must also celebrate their lives and the contributions they both made to their community. We must honor their memories by continuing to fight for the rights and dignity of all transgender individuals, particularly those who are Black and face additional challenges.

We must also recognize that the loss of Davis is not an isolated incident in the US, but rather a symptom of a broader problem. It is a reminder that there is still much work to be done in terms of achieving true equality and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or race.

The Yogyakarta Principles

The Yogyakarta Principles was published in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, in November 2006, and is a document about human rights in the areas of sexual orientation and gender identity.

According to Principle 5, every trans woman has the right to security of the person and to protection by the State against violence or bodily harm, whether inflicted by government officials or by any individual or group.

Human Rights Defenders & Public Watchdogs

Recently, opponents of Quianna Canada have used their dexterity and positional power to bury trans content from Journey to the Center, to make it appear as though this site is a one-issue platform. On this account, it is important that Ireland observe Principle 27.

I, in association with Journey to the Center, have a right to promote the protection and realisation of human rights of Black trans women at the national and international levels. This includes activities, such as the content on this platform, that are directed towards the promotion and protection of Black trans rights.

Further, Ireland should take all appropriate measures to combat actions or campaigns attacking me and Journey to the Center’s trans content, as I work on issues regarding the intersection of race and gender identity.

As a human rights defender who runs a public watchdog blog, Ireland should ensure that, despite the human rights issues that I advocate, that I enjoy freedom from retaliation, de facto or de jure discrimination, pressure, or any other arbitrary action perpetrated by a State, or by non-State actors, in response to my human rights activities.

Announcements, Gun Violence US, ICCPR, ICERD

Calls for Accountability Grow as HRD Quianna Canada Condemns Shooting of Trans Organizer, Banko Brown

May 12, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments #Article 17, #Article 5 (iii), #Article 6

Calls for Accountability Grow as HRD Quianna Canada Condemns Shooting of Trans Organizer, Banko Brown

To Honorable Olivier De Schutter and the Esteemed Members of the Human Rights Committee,

I am writing to urge you to conduct a thorough investigation into the murder of Banko Brown, an American trans organizer, whose life was taken by a security guard on April 27, 2023. The tragic event has left not only his loved ones, but also the entire LGBTQ community he was fighting for, devastated and fearful for their safety.

The Walgreens security guard stopped Brown for shoplifting, and afterwards, a confrontation ensued. During the confrontation, the security guard fatally shot Brown. Several US security guards have gunned down shoplifters in the US, raising the question as to whether shoplifting is now punishable by death in the nation.

Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights prohibits arbitrary deprivation of life. It also provides for specific conditions for the imposition of the death penalty with respect to countries that have not yet abolished it. Although the US ratified the Covenant on June 08, 1992, individual citizens cannot bring a complaint under the protocol.

The Human Rights Committee has articulated that countries such as the US—that have not abolished the death penalty—only may impose the death penalty for the most serious crimes. This means the US must interpret the term “most serious crimes” restrictively and should appertain only to crimes of extreme gravity, involving intentional killing. Evidence indicates that Brown was unarmed. Crimes not resulting directly and intentionally in death, such as economic crimes, can never serve as the basis for the imposition of the death penalty under Article 6.

Calls for Accountability Grow as HRD Quianna Canada Condemns Shooting of Trans Organizer, Banko Brown and Strangulation of Jordan Neely

The murder of Brown is not just a crime against an individual, but an attack on the fundamental principles of democracy and the rule of law. As with Jordan Neely, Brown could not fully enjoy his rights, such as the right to food, because he could not afford to buy adequate food. I would even go so far as to say that Brown was also unable to obtain food because of the persistent patterns of discrimination in political and social participation in the US.

How the U.S. Government Failed Brown:

Right to Adequate Housing: the US Government has not fulfilled its obligation to protect homeless persons nationwide. As per the UN, States should regulate the housing and rental markets in a way that promotes and protects the right to adequate housing.

Right to Adequate Food: Food was not available, accessible or adequate for Brown. While there is no right to be fed by the Government, Brown does have a right to feed himself in dignity (Right to Adequate Food, p. 3). Whenever individuals or groups are unable, for reasons beyond their control, to enjoy the right to food by the means at their disposal, the US has the obligation to provide. An example provided by the UN is providing food assistance or ensuring social safety nets for the most deprived.

Links between Brown’s Human Right to Food and Other human rights:

The right to life. When people are not able to feed themselves, they face the risk of death by starvation, malnutrition or resulting illnesses.

The murder of Brown and Neely sends a chilling message to other houseless individuals that their lives are at risk. Indeed, the murder of impoverished persons is a broader problem with vigilante justice in the US. It may indicate a lack of respect for human rights, embolden a culture of impunity for those who commit crimes against homeless persons, or may indicate state-sanctioned violence.

As the world’s leading intergovernmental organization promoting peace, justice, and human rights, the UN has a responsibility to investigate such cases and hold those responsible accountable. The UN must send a strong message that the murder of homeless persons will not be tolerated and that those responsible must face justice.

I therefore call on the UN to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the murder Brown and Neely, and to seek information as to why the perpetrators are not being brought to justice. It is critical that the UN take action to prevent further attacks on homeless persons in the US, and to uphold the values of democracy, freedom, and justice that are at the core of its mission.

Sincerely,

Journey to the Center

Human Rights Defenders

How the In-group Uses Human Rights Defenders as Scapegoats

Apr 21, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments

How the In-group Uses Human Rights Defenders as Scapegoats

In recent years, there has been a concerning trend of using human rights defenders as scapegoats by certain groups in power. This tactic is harmful and detrimental to our society as it diverts attention from the real problems that need addressing. It is crucial to understand how this tactic is employed and who is most susceptible to its effects.

This manipulative strategy becomes particularly insidious in communities with limited access to education, such as refugee and asylum seeker populations. By actively playing both sides of the fence in my research, I have seen how groups in power pit people against each other. For example, these groups deflect attention away from pressing issues like housing crises, the need for comprehensive gun-control policies, or the lack of accountability within law enforcement. They also use human rights defenders as a convenient target to evade responsibility for their own actions and shortcomings. Such tactics not only distract from the real underlying problems but also demonize vulnerable individuals who are often already marginalized and discriminated against.

Another tactic employed by the in-group is the use of their positional power to depict human rights defenders as threatening and untrustworthy. This not only harms the defenders themselves but also exposes them to increased violence, harassment, and discrimination, all under the guise of protecting the interests of the group.

So, what can be done to counteract this harmful tactic? The first step is recognizing when it is happening. It is essential to be vigilant and critically evaluate the messages and narratives presented by the in-group, even if they offer attractive incentives for participating in harming human rights defenders in your environment. It is crucial to question who truly bears responsibility for the problems being presented. Often, it is within the in-group itself, as the out-group often lacks the power and influence needed to effect meaningful societal change.

We should resist the temptation to turn on one another. Instead, we all must question both sides and consider the goals of each party involved. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the situation and reveals any missing puzzle pieces.

In conclusion, the practice of using human rights defenders as scapegoats by the in-group is damaging and undermines the fabric of our society. To combat this destructive tactic, it is essential for us to be critical, vigilant, and engage in open dialogue. By doing so, we can work towards building a more just and equitable society for everyone, where the true concerns at hand are addressed rather than obscured by divisive scapegoating.

Human Rights Defenders

7 Compelling Reasons Why Communities Should Rally Behind Independent Researchers

Mar 29, 2023 by JTC AI 0 Comments

7 Compelling Reasons Why Communities Should Rally Behind Independent Researchers

Independent researchers and human rights defenders who operate public watchdog blogs play a crucial role in holding power to account and promoting transparency in society. While independent researchers are not perfect, these dedicated individuals go above and beyond to expose corruption, challenge oppressive systems, and inform the public. It is essential for communities to recognize the value of their work and actively support them. Here are seven compelling reasons why communities should rally behind independent researchers who operate public watchdog blogs:

(1) Getting to the source of the problem: Independent researchers operating public watchdog blogs are driven by a commitment to getting to the source of the problem that impacts marginalized communities. Our diligent investigations and thorough analysis help to expose wrongdoing, ensuring that the public has access to accurate and unbiased information. It’s important to realize that a published finding just may be the tip of a governmental corruption iceberg.

(2) Promoting accountability: By shining a spotlight on coercive power, independent researchers who operate public watchdog blogs play a vital role in promoting accountability. Our work serves as a check on those in positions of authority, encouraging them to act in the best interests of the community.

(3) Protecting the public interest: Independent researchers operating public watchdog blogs act as guardians of the public interest. Our relentless pursuit of truth and our dedication to exposing malfeasance serve to protect the rights and well-being of the community as a whole, fostering a society where transparency and accountability are valued.

(4) Amplifying marginalized voices: These researchers often prioritize amplifying the voices of marginalized communities that are disproportionately affected by systemic injustices. By highlighting their experiences and advocating for their rights, independent researchers who operate public watchdog blogs help to combat marginalization and give a platform to those who are often ignored or silenced.

(5) Fostering informed decision-making: Through our research, analysis, and dissemination of information, independent researchers operating public watchdog blogs enable communities to make informed decisions. By providing comprehensive and unbiased insights, they empower individuals to engage critically with social, political, and economic issues that directly impact their lives.

(6) Encouraging civic engagement: Independent researchers who operate public watchdog blogs inspire civic engagement by encouraging individuals to question the status quo and actively participate in democratic processes. Our work stimulates public dialogue, mobilizes community action, and promotes a culture of active citizenship.

(7) Strengthening democracy: By fostering open communication, independent researchers who operate public watchdog blogs contribute to the strength and vibrancy of democratic systems. Their work promotes transparency, encourages dialogue, and holds elected officials accountable. Supporting these researchers and engaging in constructive dialogue with their findings can lead to a more informed and participatory democracy, where citizens are empowered to actively shape their society and hold their representatives to the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

To build a just and equitable society, communities must rally behind independent researchers who operate public watchdog blogs. By supporting their work through sharing their findings, providing financial resources, and actively engaging with their platforms, communities can help foster a more transparent, accountable, and inclusive society. Supporting these dedicated individuals is essential for a thriving democracy and a more equitable future for all.