Announcements Archives | Quianna Canada

Open Letter to Honorable Claire D. Cronin on Transnational Repression in Ireland

Sep 11, 2023 by Quianna Canada 0 Comments #US Ambassador

Open Letter to Honorable Claire D. Cronin on Transnational Repression in Ireland

Dear Esteemed Ambassador Cronin:

I am writing to you with the hope of scheduling a meeting to discuss the practice of transnational repression in the Republic of Ireland that is impacting the lives of American asylum seekers. I believe that it is within my best interest to leave Ireland and to pursue my research and educational aspirations in a different country, as I fear my freedom and life would be threatened if I returned to the United States of America (hereinafter “United States”). First, furthering my educational pursuits abroad will give me the opportunity to fulfil one of the requirements of my B.A. Law undergraduate degree. Second, it will give me a unique opportunity to contribute to the development and growth of my society. Be that as it may, I fear that if I do not proceed further with my claims against the United States, there would be a risk to my life and my freedom. These fears are based on the following:

I. Asylum Claim Between 2013-2023

The United States is privy to the claims I made against it dating back to 2013. Receiving States, such as Ireland, sometimes share information with authorities in the applicant’s country of origin, disclosing that the applicant has filed an asylum claim. While States may share limited information with the authorities in the applicant’s country of origin after they have exhausted all available legal remedies, evidence suggests that Ireland, or one of its colluders, has informed the United States of my asylum application well before my case was heard by the International Protection Office.

Evidence suggests, assurances were negotiated during the examination of my asylum claim, which violates the principle of confidentiality and my right, as an asylum seeker, to access and enjoy fair asylum procedures. Moreover, authorities in Ireland have prevented me from (1) challenging the decisions of the International Protection Office and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal rendered, and (2) barred me from creating structures that would support an application for Leave to Remain, which infringes upon my right to an effective remedy.

As a result, I am concerned that Ireland’s disclosure to the United States has aggravated my position in relation to the U.S. Government, who I assert, is responsible for my persecution. Thus, I am concerned about being exposed to a flagrant denial of justice, and potential risks to my life and freedom that I could face as a result of my political activism, and the claims I made against the United States for police sexual violence and brutality; racial persecution, and gender-related discrimination.

While I am deeply committed to advocating for the values of democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression in the United States and abroad, I do not feel that I cannot continue my activism in the United States without retaliation by government officials and other powerful interests in our nation.

The United States’ alleged interference with my asylum claim abroad has led me to believe these dangers will only escalate if I return home. This interference has infringed on my right to self-determination, which guarantees me the liberty to pursue freely, my economic, social and cultural development without outside interference. This right under international law also implies that I should have the liberty to determine freely, my political status and my place in the international community, based upon the liberation of peoples from colonialism and,by the prohibition against subjugation, domination and exploitation.

It cannot be denied that living abroad has provided me with a sense of security and freedom that I simply cannot find in the United States. Although I disagree with the United States’ position that its citizens should not file asylum claims abroad, I am prepared to (1) forego any future asylum claim against the United States now, and in the future, if the United States discontinue reprisals and/or forego any and all reprisals, legal or otherwise on the soils of the Republic of Ireland and the United States of America, pertaining to my Article 14 right to seek and to enjoy asylum in other countries from persecution—and the claims I made against the United States from February 2013—to the date I sit before the Office of the Ambassador to withdraw my asylum application Ireland.

II. Scope of 2021-2023 Research

As a dedicated researcher, I have always strived to conduct myself with the utmost professionalism and integrity.

However, as with any human endeavor, there are going to be instances where some allege the researcher, advertently or inadvertently, crossed the line or made a mistake. In my personal opinion, I believe that it is important for researchers to have the freedom to pursue their work without fear of legal repercussion for alleged mistakes or alleged misunderstandings that allegedly occur in the field. Without such protections, the pursuit of knowledge and scientific discovery could be severely hindered. I further believe that any action taken during my research periods, as a human rights defender, were done in good faith to expose the unlawful persecution of transgender and American asylum seekers in Ireland—with the ultimate goal of advancing knowledge on the ill-treatment of safe country nationals during the international protection process.

Indeed, human rights defenders investigate, gather information and report on human rights violations which focus on one specific instance of human rights abuses. Under the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, I have the right to freely to publish, impart or disseminate to others views, information and knowledge on all human rights and fundamental freedoms. I also have the right to study, discuss, form and hold opinions on the observance, both in law and in practice, of all human rights and fundamental freedoms and, through these and other appropriate means, to draw public attention to those matters.

For the last three years, my rights as a human rights defender have been severely curtailed. The United States nor the Republic of Ireland have taken all necessary measures to ensure I am protected from: threats, retaliation, de facto or de jure adverse discrimination, pressure and other arbitrary actions as a consequence of my legitimate exercise of the rights referred to in the Declaration.

Irrespective of these challenges, I remain committed to pursuing my education and research, and contributing to society in a positive way. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I have been afforded to learn and study, and I believe that my contributions to society, if provided a fair opportunity unmolested, can be even greater if I am allowed to remain abroad. The United States may disagree with my assertions. Even if it does, I think we could resolve this entire matter amicably.

As a United States citizen, I am prepared to (1) forego any future asylum claim against the United States now, and in the future. However, there are publicly accessible decisions and judgments relating to my asylum claim, and wrongful arrest images relating to the 2013 incident that could interfere with my right to life, right to liberty, right to work, right to self-determination and my freedom from degrading treatment or punishment.

In light of this fact, I ask that the United States remove publicly accessible decisions and judgments relating to my asylum claim, and wrongful arrest images relating to the 2013 incident that could interfere with my right to life, right to liberty, right to work, right to self-determination and my freedom from degrading treatment or punishment. In order to effectively eliminate all reasonably possible manifestations of persecution in my case, I must be able to gauge reliability of assurances obtained in response to claims I made relating to torture and ill-treatment. At this point, I have no assurance that all possible manifestations of persecution in my own case have been eliminated.

III. Housing Assistance Abroad

Lastly, I am strongly considering entering an LLM program abroad and would appreciate the United States’ support. There are several reasons why I believe your office can play a crucial role in helping me enter this program and to find suitable housing, should I be accepted in an LLM program. As you may be aware, if move to any country, I will be hobbled by the United States government’s perception of me. Moreover, homelessness due to circumstances beyond my control will also impact me significantly. While the United States may disagree that it has directly contributed to my situation, I must disagree. In my opinion, the United States has participated in and acquiesced to certain structures and systems that have contributed to widespread housing insecurity and racial inequality. As a citizen of the United States, I am seeking to resolve this matter amicably, and the only way I can do this is with the full support of the United States in (1) securing housing, and (2)the United States’ employees, agents, officials, informants, progenitors and allies do interfere with my educational pursuits abroad.

As for housing, the Office of the Ambassador has a wealth of knowledge and resources when it comes to navigating foreign housing markets. With your help, I can avoid any potential pitfalls that may arise when searching for housing in an unfamiliar country. As a representative of the United States, I also believe it is important to have access to safe and secure housing. This will not only ensure my personal safety, but also ensure that I am able to carry out my duties effectively while abroad. Finally, I believe your office’s assistance in finding suitable housing will ultimately benefit the United States as a whole. By ensuring that I have a comfortable and safe place to stay, I will be better equipped represent the real values of democracy in a positive light, which I have been unable to do before.

For these reasons, I respectfully request a meeting with the Office of the Ambassador and its assistance with suitable housing during my travels abroad. I believe this is a matter of importance that warrants your attention.

Assistance from the Office of the Ambassador in securing accommodation and other basic needs abroad would, undoubtedly,be the embodiment of the American Dream.

Sincerely,

Quianna Canada

cc:HONORABLE MR. FILIPPO GRANDI

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

Case Postale 2500

CH-1211 Genève 2 DépôtSuisse

P: +41 22 739 8111

Open Letter to Honorable Claire D. Cronin on Transnational Repression in Ireland

References

1 UNSC Res. 1624 (14 September 2005), Preamble para. 7, adopted during the 2005 World Summit most recently affirmed in UNSC Res 2368 (20 July 2017).

2 United Nations. “About Human Rights Defenders: Special Rapporteur of human rights defenders.” OHCHR, para. 4.

3 United Nations. Declaration on Human Rights Defenders. A/RES/53/144. See Article 6 (b)(c), p. 4.

4 Id

5 Convention against Discrimination in Education, Article 4 (make secondary education in its different forms generally available and accessible to all). Available at: https://www.unesco.org/en/legal-affairs/convention-against-discrimination-education/

6 UNHCR. (2005). Advisory opinion on the rules of confidentiality regarding asylum information. Available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/42b9190e4.html. See also, Art. 30 of the Recast Procedures Directives.My understanding is that it is against the 1951 Convention for a State to share personal data or any other information relating to asylum seekers with the authorities of the country of origin before a final rejection has been made on theasylum claim

Announcements, ICCPR, Rights

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

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.

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