Photos by Ivy Fetalino, Reine Hanna, and Gabbi McArtor
April 10, 2024: For the first time ever, STFers participated in this year’s Chicago Voices for Justice dinner, coming together in solidarity to learn how HRW and its supporters are actively protecting human rights and defending democracy in the U.S. and beyond. The evening featured remarks from HRW’s Washington Director Sarah Yager; Associate Director, Crisis, Conflict and Arms Division Belkis Wille; U.S. Program Democracy Researcher & Advocate Trey Walk; and Americas Deputy Director Juan Pappier.
STF leaders from Evanston Township and Whitney M. Young high schools inspired more than 70 dinner attendees to sign their Protect the Unhoused Action Plan petition urging Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson to support an amendment to the State of Illinois’ Bill of Rights for the Homeless Act. This amendment would ensure that state or local officials cannot criminalize people simply for experiencing houselessness.
STFers are planning to personally deliver the petition to Mayor Johnson, amplifying youth voices in the fight to protect the human rights of the unhoused.
Congratulation Chicago-area STFers for making a powerful impression on HRW supporters in your community!