COVID-19 has adjusted many of the tactics that we typically use in advocating for the protection of human rights. Despite this hurdle, the movement pushes forward and the mandatory switch to digital activism has opened up a key space where youth are already the leaders. As we collectively make this shift, following the lead of young people whose experience with making the most of the internet, and in particular, social media, is imperative. As schools close and we head into summer, here are some key areas where youth can leverage our years of online expertise in order to defend human rights across the globe amid these unprecedented circumstances.
On April 22 “Earth Day” turns 50!
- Participate in the Earth Day online climate strike as we observe this important anniversary in the fight against climate change.
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Amid the crisis, Indigenous communities remain disproportionately at risk. Take action by calling on the federal government to respect Indigenous rights and ensure every community has the resources they need. Send an E-mailor Tweet to the Prime Minister and Minister of Indigenous Services and ask that they :
- respect the rights of Indigenous peoples in their emergency response plans.
- respect the specific needs of individual communities and intervene immediately to ensure communities have the resources they need.
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May marks “The Month of Action for Mining Justice” an opportunity to deepen your understanding of mining justice and to take action in solidarity with mining-affected communities.
- Register for our May 14 webinar on mining justice and hear directly from people whose lives have been negatively impacted by Canadian-owned mines in Asia and South America as they fight for justice.
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World Refugee Week (June 15-20)
- Youth across the globe have been routinely advocating in defense of the right to education. Check out our Instagram feature series on “When I Grow Up,” a project highlighting artwork from Rohyinga children who are currently living in refugee camps in Bangladesh as they look towards their future. (Coming Soon)
- Learn how other youth connect to this shared idea of future on our blog. (Coming Soon)
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As Pride events for 2020 get continuously cancelled and postponed, we want to hear about the innovative ways you are using to celebrate virtually. Share your plans by e-mailing them to siyar@amnesty.ca or submit photos from your gatherings and we’ll feature you and your friends on Instagram!
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Bookmark this page for more upcoming actions you can take this summer!
