Center for Human Rights and Humanitarian Law
Human Rights News & Events

WCL Events

1. ACTION FOR HUMAN RIGHTS: ALTERNATIVE WINTER BREAK TRIP '09-'10 MANDATORY APPLICATION MEETINGS
   Tues., Sept. 29th, 12-1pm, Rm. 524 or Wed., Sept. 30th, 8-9pm, Rm. TBA
   For those seeking to participate in the Alternative Winter Break trip to New Orleans this year there is a mandatory meeting this week on either Tues. or Wed. Applicants are required to attend one of the two meetings. Trip requirements and explanation of the application process will be given. Additionally, the application was be distributed. Deadline for application submission while be Tues., Oct. 6th at 12p. For additional information please contact ahr@wcl.american.edu. Food will be served.
   
   
2. APALRC VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY PANEL WITH WCL ALUMNI
   Tues., Sept. 29th, 12-1pm, Rm. 503
   Find out how to get involved with the Asian American community in DC. The Asian Pacific American Legal Resource Center works closely with WCL and offers great volunteer and internship opportunities, where you can make a difference in the lives of members of the Asian American community who do not have access to legal advice or representation. Nadia Firozvi and Parag Rajendra Esqs, both alumni of WCL, will speak on how you can make a difference, whether you're a 1L, 2L or 3L. Lunch will be served! Please RSVP to apalsa@wcl.american.edu for headcount!
   
   

3. DOCUMENTARY SCREENING LAUCHES OCTOBER HUMAN RIGHTS FILM MONTH WITH "AS WE FORGIVE"
   Fri., Oct. 2nd, 7-9:30pm at Katzen Arts Center
   Could you forgive a person who murdered your family? Director Laura Waters Hinson (AU '07) and narrator Mia Farrow explore the lives of four neighbors on opposite sides of a genocidal bloodbath and their extraordinary journey to forgiveness. Documentary screeing and Rwandan reconciliation panel discussion. Reception with light refreshments at 7pm. Screening and discussion from 7:30-9:30pm. For more about October's human rights film screenings, visit www.auhumanrightsfilmseries.org.

4. SAVE THE DATE: UPHOLDING INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS: SHARED HISTORY AND SHARED CHALLENGES FOR THE NETHERLANDS AND THE UNITED STATES
   Mon., Oct. 5th, 2pm - 6pm, Rm. 603
   This year the Netherlands and the United States celebrate 400 years of enduring friendship, starting with the arrival of the first Dutch ship in 1609. As part of the series of events organized around this ‘NY400’ milestone, this seminar aims to explore how the Dutch presence in North America and the interaction between the Netherlands and the U.S. have contributed to the development of fundamental and universal human rights, and what this means today for the human rights policies of both our nations. To register, please e-mail humlaw@wcl.american.edu.

5. 1L PUBLIC INTEREST ROUNDTABLE SERIES WITH PROF. ANTHONY VARONA
   Thurs., Oct. 8th, 12-1:15pm, Rm 524
   1Ls are invited to join Professor Anthony Varona for lunch. Prof. Varona (http://www.wcl.american.edu/faculty/varona/) will discuss his work as legal director for the Human Rights Campaign and founding chairperson of the AIDS Action Council's Legal Advisory Board. He will also share his thoughts on pursuing a career in public interest law and answer student questions. You must RSVP by Monday, October 5. Registration is limited and food will be provided. To RSVP please contact jshirk@wcl.american.edu.
   
   
6. WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU DON'T WANT TO LITIGATE? AN INTRODUCTION TO TRANSACTIONAL LAW HOSTED BY THE WOMEN AND THE LAW PROGRAM
   Thurs., Oct. 8th, 12-12:50pm, Rm. 601
   Come for an informal discussion about career choices in transactional law. Learn about what transactional attorneys actually do. Learn about transactional pro bono work and hear about volunteer opportunities in transactional pro bono work. Lunch with be provided. For more information and to RSVP please contact wilp@wcl.american.edu. 
   
   
7. HUMAN RIGHTS FILM SERIES! 10TH ANNUAL HUMAN RIGHTS FILM SERIES: BURMA VJ
   Thurs., Oct., 8th, 5:30-8p at Katzen Art Center
   The Annual Human Rights Film Series at American University explores ways in which film and media can be used to promote and protect human rights. This year, the largest coalition of partners have joined together to organize an impressive schedule of films and speakers for the 10th anniversary. The series will kick-off at the AU Katzen Center. All screenings begin at 5:30pm and will feature a post-screening discussion with award-winning filmmakers and human rights advocates. The kickoff film Burma VJ features a tenacious band of Burmese reporters, armed with video cameras facing down death to expose the repressive regime controlling their country. To see the movie trailer see http://burmavjmovie.com/. The Series is free and open to the public. For more information and listing of all fims in the series see http://www.wcl.american.edu/humright/center/film.cfm or contact humlaw@wcl.american.edu. We hope to see you there!
   
   
8. HUMAN RIGHTS ROUNDTABLE FOR LLM STUDENTS
   Tues., Oct. 13th, 3:30-4:30pm, Rm. 526
   Are you an LLM student interested in strengthening your skills as a human rights attorney? Join the Center and your fellow colleagues for a monthly discussion of cutting edge practices in human rights work. Discussion will be facilitated by Prof. Hadar Harris, Prof. Meetali Jain, and other members of WCL's esteemed faculty. Light refreshments will be served. For additional information please contact humlaw@wcl.american.edu.
   
   
9. MUNCHING ON HUMAN RIGHTS SERIES
   Wed., Oct. 14th, 12-1:30pm, JD Student Lounge
   The Center's popular "Munching on Human Rights" series is back for another season of engaging and thought-provoking lunchtime lectures hosted by WCL faculty. This series is an introductory program designed particularly for 1Ls who are looking to get a "taste" of international human rights and humanitarian law during their first year of study. Topics will include an introduction to human rights treaty law, a discussion of the Universal Bill of Human Rights, and a primer on the law of war and rules of occupation.
   
   Lectures will be held once a month (fall semester only) and pizza will be served so bring your questions and your appetite! All students are welcome. For additional information and to RSVP please contact humlaw@wcl.american.edu.
   
   
10. HUMAN RIGHTS FILM SERIES! 10TH ANNUAL HUMAN RIGHTS FILM SERIES: TAKING ROOT: THE VISION OF WANGARI MAATHAI
    Thurs., Oct. 15th, 5:30-8p at Wechsler Theater, Mary Graydon Center
    The Annual Human Rights Film Series at American University explores ways in which film and media can be used to promote and protect human rights. This year the largest coalition of partners have joined together to organize an impressive schedule of films and speakers for the 10th anniversary. Ths series will kick-off at the AU Katzen Center. All screenings begin at 5:30pm and will feature a post-screening discussion with award-winning filmmakers and human rights advocates. The second film in our series features the dramatic story of Kenyan Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Wangari Maathai whose simple act of planting trees grew into a nationwide movement to safeguard the environment, protect human rights, and defend democracy-a movement for which this charismatic woman became an iconic inspiration.Special Guest speaker: Filmeditor Mary Lampson. To see the movie trailer see http://takingrootfilm.com/. For more information and listing of all fims in the series see http://www.wcl.american.edu/humright/center/film.cfm or contact humlaw@wcl.american.edu. We hope to see you there!
    
    

Community Events

1. AU's KAY SPIRITUAL LIFE CENTER PRESENTS TABLE TALK LUNCH SERIES
   Wednesdays at 12pm (12pm Lunch and 12:20pm Discussion), Kay Spiritual Life Center Lounge
   Join the Kay Spiritual Life Center for its Table Talk Lunch Series on Wednesdays at 12pm. Please RSVP 24 hours before the scheduled event at 202-885-3321 or at kslc@american.edu. Buffet lunch provided free for students. Speakers to be announced.
   
   Wednesday, Sept. 30th - Cap and Trade: Consequences for the Global South?

   Wednesday, Oct. 14th - Extractive Industries: Trade Justice and Human Rights

   Wednesday, Oct. 28th - International Financial System: What New Rules Are Needed?

   Wednesday, Nov. 18th - Universal Health Care: Whose Dream and Whose Nightmare?

   Wednesday, Dec. 2nd - The Coup in Honduras: What is Happening to Democracy in Latin America?

2. LGBTQ EQUALITY MARCH ON WASHINGTON
   Sun., Oct. 11th
   Parade at 12:00 (route TBA) Rally at 2:00pm (West Lawn of the Capitol)
   Organized by Equality Across America with one single demand, "Equal protection in all matters governed by civil law in all 50 states. Find more information at Equality Across America
   
   
3. DONATE TODAY! WEAVE (WOMEN EMPOWERED AGAINST VIOLENCE) IS SEEKING TO RAISE $85,000
   Sept. 30th Deadline
   WEAVE is seeking to raise $85,000 by Sept. 30th, which will enable them to pay off a line of credit due, after which a $200,000 commitment from several foundations will kick in.  We understand that WEAVE has a new board leadership coming in and a lead on a consultant who will develop a business plan, a marketing plan, and a sustainability plan over the next 30-45 days.
   

   WEAVE has raised 43% of what they need in 2 days, and believe they can reach their goal if everyone who cares pitches in.

   So go to www.SaveWEAVE.org and click on the Chip-In button.  When WEAVE reaches the $85,000 goal you will receive a letter from WEAVE acknowledging your tax-exempt charitable contribution.  If they do not reach the goal, they will return all the donations to the donors.
   For more information on WEAVE see http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/19/AR2009091902383.html.

Announcements & Professional Development Opportunities

1. WCL CRIMINAL LAW BRIEF SEEKING STAFF MEMBERS
   

   Allclass levelsare encouraged to apply for a staff positionon the Criminal Law Brief. Staff memberscan expect toimprove bluebooking skills, expand and diversify their resumes, and have opportunities to be published. Positions as line editors and executive board members will become available to those interested in leadership roles. Interested students should email CrimLawBrief@gmail.com requesting an application. Applications will be due October 1, 2009.
   

2. DEAN'S FELLOW OPPORTUNITY AT THE WAR CRIMES RESEARCH OFFICE FOR FALL SEMESTER
   The WCRO seeks a Dean's Fellow to provide administrative assistance to its Summer Law Program in The Hague. We are looking for students to assist in developing course materials, marketing the program and undertaking administrative tasks. We value attention to detail, strong organizational skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office programs. Experience or interest in international law, program management and study abroad are all great assets. To apply, please send a resume and cover letter highlighting relevant experience to Susana SáCouto, Director, War Crimes Research Office, by email at warcrimes@wcl.american.edu. We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. If you have any questions, please feel free to stop by our office at 4301 50th Street NW, Suite 102, call us at 202-274-4067 or e-mail warcrimes@wcl.american.edu.
   

3. RESEARCH ASSISTANT: WAR ON TERROR AND INTERNATIONAL LAW
   An opportunity is available for a student with excellent research skills to provide assistance in the research and preparation of the second edition of ‘The War on Terror and the Framework of International Law’, published by Cambridge University Press in 2005. The student would work directly with the author, Helen Duffy, who is the Legal Director of INTERIGHTS, an international human rights organization, though this work is done in her personal capacity.
   
   The first edition of the book has been widely distributed and critically appraised as an important resource for policy makers, lawyers, students and interested citizens in understanding the law and how it been applied or misapplied in the aftermath of 9/11(reviews available through www.interights.org).
   
   The second edition will involve research and analysis of recent developments in international practice, alongside evolving international standards. Since 2005 international practice has moved on in significant and often troubling ways. Critical controversial issues now include the practice of 'extraordinary rendition,' the nature of torture and ill treatment and accountability obligations, terrorist black 'lists'’ the ‘preventative’ use of criminal law and the reactions of national, international and regional the courts to terrorism and counter-terrorism post-9/11.  Like the original book, the second edition would approach the legal framework as an intersecting whole rather than - as tends to happen - compartmentalized and fragmented. It would therefore address issues relating to the use of force; criminal law as tool against terrorism; developments in humanitarian law; human rights; state responsibility for terrorism; and intersections between these areas.
   
   While the author cannot offer remuneration, providing assistance may represent an opportunity to engage with and develop expertise in many of the key international legal issues of our time, and would be recognized in the book itself. While there is flexibility as to time available and areas of focus; the only requirements are excellent research skills and sound knowledge of international law in some of the relevant areas highlighted above. To express interest or with any questions please feel free to contact Helen Duffy helenandluca@hotmail.com.
   
   

4. INVITATION TO SUBMIT ESSAYS IN DEDICATION TO THE ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN'S RIGHTS (Deadline Oct. 1st)
   The Modern American (TMA) announces the American University - Washington College of Law (WCL) essay competition, open to all full-time and part-time law students enrolled in and attending an accredited law school in the United States. This competition is co-sponsored by WCL in conjunction with the Women’s Bar Association of the District of Columbia.
   
   

   The Women’s Bar Association of the District of Columbia (WBA) and WCL share an important history in advancing women in the law and women’s rights.  TMA celebrates this joint history by creating a writing competition that highlights the intersection between immigration and violence against women.  In both the domestic and international contexts, immigration and violence are inexorably connected.  This timely issue marks the 15th Anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act and the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25th.  This contest will commemorate these landmarks by highlighting the often invisible link between immigration and violence, specifically violence against women. The winner of the competition will not only receive $1,000, but will also have the opportunity to publish his/her essay in TMA. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: October 1st, 2009, at noon est. For additional information, please contact Tatiana Miranda, Editor-in-Chief,The Modern American at t.miranda17@gmail.com.
   

5. GENOCIDE INTERVENTION NETWORK (GI-NET) IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2010 CARL WILKENS FELLOWSHIP (Deadline November 1st)
   The Carl Wilkens Fellowship provides emerging leaders with conflict and advocacy training, organizing tools, leadership training, and the resources to build sustained political will to end genocide. Named in honor of Carl Wilkens, the only American to remain in Rwanda during the 1994 genocide, the Carl Wilkens Fellowship gives ordinary citizens the skills and resources they need to become movement leaders in their own communities. If you, or someone you know, are interested in learning more about the Wilkens Fellowship, please visit: http://www.genocideintervention.net/advocate/wilkens/overview. Applications are due no later than November 1st, 2009. The link to the application is: http://www.genocideintervention.net/advocate/wilkens/apply. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact Jessica Reveri, Carl Wilkens Fellowship Coordinator, at reveri@genocideintervention.net.
   

6. CALL FOR PAPERS: 2010 HUMAN RIGHTS ESSAY AWARD
   The Academy is proud to announce the topic of the 2010 Human Rights Essay Award. This year's topic for the essay in English is: "The Rights of Freedom of Expression and International Human Rights Law." Deadline for submissions is February 1, 2010 at 10am EST.
   
   About the Award: This annual competition seeks to stimulate the production of scholarly works in international human rights law. The Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law grants two Awards, one for the best article in English and one for the best article in Spanish. The Jury deciding the Award will be comprised of professionals with a recognized expertise in international human rights law. The best articles may be published in the American University International Law Review. A comprehensive list of rules is available at: www.wcl.american.edu/hracademy/hraward.cfm. If you have questions please contact the Academy of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law at 202-274-4070 or via email at hracademy@wcl.american.edu.

7. CALL FOR PAPERS: ABA COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
   Deadline: Nov. 2nd, 2009
   ABA Commission on Human Rights is requesting submissions on human rights-related topics for possible publication in The International Lawyer's Year in Review. Your contribution will be read by lawyers, judges, and academics around the world.  Topics addressed in last year’s submission include the U.N. Human Rights Council, death penalty decisions in the U.S. and similar legal developments around the world, decisions in the European Court of Human Rights, and other topics.

   This year, we would particularly appreciate your help in writing about one of the following hot topics identified by the chairs and vice-chairs of the ABA Int’l Human Rights Committee:

   • U.N. Human Rights Council
   • European Court of Human Rights decisions
   • International Court of Justice decisions
   • ICTY/ICTR/ICC decisions and trials
   • Torture/Extraordinary Rendition
   • Intersections between business models and Human Rights (e.g., micro financing)
   • Millennium Development Goals tracking and updates
   • CEDAW updates
   • Committee on the Rights of the Child updates
   • Other topics

   If another topic interests you, please send a brief summary of your idea. For guidelines and topic submissions please contact cferguson@fcsl.edu.

   
   

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