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=About Us=  
 
=About Us=  
 
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'''Pittsburgh Human Rights City Alliance''' works to bring together diverse groups and individuals to encourage the realization of our City Council's 2011 [https://pittsburgh.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=874003&GUID=EB31A893-F2F4-41DC-94FB-DAF1CB2DB0A2&Options=&Search= Proclamation declaring Pittsburgh a "human rights city"]. We strive to foster a human rights culture that maximizes human rights and dignity for all people who live in our region [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/6/6a/Human_Rights_City_Principles_October_2017.pdf (See Human Rights Cities Principles)]. We help network leading community organizations and concerned residents to advance [https://www.ajamubaraka.com/peoplecentered-human-rights-as-a-framework-for-social-transformation ''people-centered human rights''] in Pittsburgh.'' We cannot wait for leaders in Washington to protect our basic rights! It takes engaged and creative efforts of community residents to "bring human rights home"!
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'''Pittsburgh Human Rights City Alliance''' is a grassroots network of individuals and groups committed to advancing and protecting human rights for all people in our region. We work to create a culture of human rights by building and supporting broad coalitions advocating for human rights, fostering human rights learning, and promoting policies that help all people to live with dignity and justice. 
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We work to bring together diverse groups and individuals to encourage the realization of our City Council's 2011 [https://pittsburgh.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=874003&GUID=EB31A893-F2F4-41DC-94FB-DAF1CB2DB0A2&Options=&Search= Proclamation declaring Pittsburgh a "human rights city"]. We strive to foster a human rights culture that maximizes human rights and dignity for all people who live in our region [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/6/6a/Human_Rights_City_Principles_October_2017.pdf (See Human Rights Cities Principles)]. We help network leading community organizations and concerned residents to advance [https://www.ajamubaraka.com/peoplecentered-human-rights-as-a-framework-for-social-transformation ''people-centered human rights''] in Pittsburgh.'' We cannot wait for leaders in Washington to protect our basic rights! It takes engaged and creative efforts of community residents to "bring human rights home"!
 
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=Ways to Get Involved=  
 
=Ways to Get Involved=  
 
<big>'''Subscribe'''</big><br>
 
<big>'''Subscribe'''</big><br>
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:'''[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/pghrights Subscribe to our newsletter]'''for updates on events & action opportunities!
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:'''[[University Human Rights Working Group]]''': Faculty members, staff and graduate students can [https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/pghrights_university '''subscribe here'''].
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:Follow us on [https://www.facebook.com/groups/pghrights '''Facebook'''] and [https://www.instagram.com/pghrights/ '''Instagram''']
  
*'''[https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/pghrights Subscribe to our newsletter]''' to receive email updates on events & action opportunities!  
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<big>'''Join a Working Group'''</big><br>--Working groups meet regularly to develop projects on specific issues. Everyone is welcome to attend & learn about local human rights issues and find ways to get involved! Current working groups include: <br>
*We also have a [[University Human Rights Working Group]]. Faculty members, staff and graduate students can [https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/pghrights_university '''subscribe here'''] to join our (low-volume) email list.
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::*[[Housing Rights]]  
*Follow us on [https://www.facebook.com/groups/pghrights '''Facebook'''] and [https://www.instagram.com/pghrights/ '''Instagram''']
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::*[[Community Safety & Policing]]
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::*[[Communications, Education and Outreach]]
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::*[[Policy, Legislation, & Governance (PLuG)]]
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:'''For more information, meeting times and links,''' please contact Maddy McGrady at madeline@theglobalswitchboard.org
  
<big>'''Join a Working Group'''</big><br>
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=Calendar=
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<big>'''SAVE THE DATE! 5 April 2025: Fair Housing Summit'''</big>
  
We currently steward four working groups that convene on a regular basis. Additional working groups may be formed as our work evolves and to support campaigns or special projects as needed. To learn more about each one, click on the links below. All are welcome to get involved! '''For more information and meeting links, please contact Maddy McGrady at madeline@theglobalswitchboard.org''' <br>
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'''Recent Events & Actions'''
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*'''International Human Rights Day 2024''' Our annual Human Rights Day press conference was successful, and we helped set the stage for city leaders from the Mayor’s office and Council to speak to the importance of our shared work to defend human rights in our city. The Human Rights City Alliance was presented with a Proclamation from the Mayor’s office reinforcing the City’s commitment to "respect, protect and fulfill human rights and to promote a culture of human rights in our city."
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::* [https://www.wtae.com/article/human-rights-day-pittsburgh/63147530 City of Pittsburgh leaders and organizations recognize Human Rights Day] WTAE, Channel 4 Pittsburgh, December 10, 2024
  
*'''[[Housing Rights]]''' Next meeting '''Tuesday, October 1, 6PM-7PM (Online)'''
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=Current Work=
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The Human Rights City Alliance helps build alliances among individuals and groups in our area supporting human rights for all. We support local engagement in national and international human rights advocacy, and participate in UN human rights reviews of U.S. policies.
  
*'''[[Community Safety & Policing]]''' Next meeting '''Tuesday, October 8, 2-3 pm (Online).'''
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<big>'''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/index.php?title=UPR_Pittsburgh#2024-2025_Universal_Periodic_Review_.28UPR.29_Pittsburgh Universal Periodic Review 2025]'''</big>
  
*'''[[Communications, Education and Outreach]]''' Next meeting '''Tuesday, October 15, 6-7pm (Online).'''
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:We are currently involved in the '''[https://www.ohchr.org/en/hr-bodies/upr/upr-home United Nations Universal Periodic Review of the U.S. government]''' and will be hosting a series of related community forums. See our [[Reports to UN Human Rights Bodies]], submitted as part of the global work to improve compliance with international human rights law.
  
*'''[[Policy, Legislation, & Governance (PLuG)]]''' Next meeting '''Thursday, October 3, 5:30-6:30 pm (Online).'''
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'''Working Groups'''
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Our current working groups focus on the following issue areas, and they are shaped by efforts of volunteers like you!
  
<big>'''Calendar'''</big><br>
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<big>'''Housing Rights & Justice'''</big><br>
 
 
'''PUSH Documentary Screening''' - '''Monday, September 30th, 6-8pm, Barco Law Building''' (3900 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15260)<br>
 
  
:PUSH tells the story of how global banks and investment firms are turning our communities into sources of private profit, taking control of residential housing around the world, and pushing out low-income residents. The film tells another story too: residents and city officials are coming together to demand that housing be protected as a human right.<br>
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:HRCA is an active member of the [https://pittsburghunited.org/housing/ '''Pittsburgh Housing Justice Table'''], a coalition of allied local organizations and independent advocates who believe that housing is a human right and that everyone should have access to the housing they need. Our Housing Rights Working Group supports the work of the Housing Justice Table through related events, education and advocacy efforts.  
  
:[https://forms.gle/7LuMZmiK3igPDGH86 RSVP here] (encouraged, not required). ''Food will be provided''
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:Through community engagement and conversations with Housing Justice Table coalition partners, HRCA developed '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/d/de/Human_Rights_Housing_Strategy_and_Action_Plan_Discussion_Draft_April_2023.pdf A Human Rights-based Housing Strategy and Action Plan for Pittsburgh, PA]''' which serves as a guiding document for our housing advocacy. We want our goals and strategy to reflect the needs and perspectives of our community, which is why we invite residents to review the document and share input with us so that we can strengthen it. Send your comments to hrca@theglobalswitchboard.org or join us for our next working group meeting!
  
<big>'''Contact Us'''<big><br>
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:You can learn more about the history behind our research and strategy conversations by reviewing our resource page, [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/index.php?title=Pittsburgh_Human_Rights_Housing_Strategy '''Building Pittsburgh's Human Rights Housing Strategy''']
<small>All are welcome to join our work to make Pittsburgh a Human Rights City! For more information or to get involved, please contact us at hrca@theglobalswitchboard.org.</small>
 
  
=Current Areas of Focus=
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[[Steel City Cooperative Housing]] Initiative
  
HRCA's work continues to evolve. Our current work focuses on the following issue areas, which were identified by community members and organizers as key regional priorities. Our working groups correspond with these areas of focus.  
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'''Relevant Events & Actions'''
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:*(November 14, 2024), '''Student Housing & Tenant Rights Workshop''' at Carnegie Mellon University. Students are facing a housing crisis that is affecting them financially, physically, emotionally, and academically. Join Carnegie Mellon Health Promotion and the Pittsburgh Human Rights City Alliance as we team up to discuss student housing justice, tenant rights, organizing efforts in the broader community, and more. Register by visiting tinyurl.com/HousingRightsCMU
  
<big>'''Housing Rights & Justice'''</big><br>
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:*(April 4-7, 2022), '''Leilani Farha, the former [https://www.ohchr.org/en/issues/housing/pages/housingindex.aspx UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Right to Adequate Housing], visits Pittsburgh.''' Check out our [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/b/b6/Farha_visit_follow_up_recap.pdf visit summary] highlighting insights and recommendations from our discussions with Ms. Farha, who now leads global housing rights organization, [https://make-the-shift.org/ The Shift]. Here you’ll also find helpful links to learning resources and legal tools to help us advance housing as a human right. [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/b/b6/Farha_visit_follow_up_recap.pdf (Download report PDF)]
 
 
HRCA is an active member of the [https://pittsburghunited.org/housing/ '''Pittsburgh Housing Justice Table'''], a coalition of allied local organizations and independent advocates who believe that housing is a human right and that everyone should have access to the housing they need. Our Housing Rights Working Group supports the work of the Housing Justice Table through related events, education and advocacy efforts.
 
 
 
Through community engagement and conversations with Housing Justice Table coalition partners, HRCA developed '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/d/de/Human_Rights_Housing_Strategy_and_Action_Plan_Discussion_Draft_April_2023.pdf A Human Rights-based Housing Strategy and Action Plan for Pittsburgh, PA]''' which serves as a guiding document for our housing advocacy. We want our goals and strategy to reflect the needs and perspectives of our community, which is why we invite residents to review the document and share input with us so that we can strengthen it. Send your comments to hrca@theglobalswitchboard.org or join us for our next working group meeting!
 
 
 
You can learn more about the history behind our research and strategy conversations by reviewing our resource page, [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/index.php?title=Pittsburgh_Human_Rights_Housing_Strategy '''Building Pittsburgh's Human Rights Housing Strategy''']
 
 
 
'''Relevant Events & Actions'''<br>
 
 
 
*(April 4-7, 2022), '''Leilani Farha, the former [https://www.ohchr.org/en/issues/housing/pages/housingindex.aspx UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Right to Adequate Housing], visits Pittsburgh.''' Check out our [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/b/b6/Farha_visit_follow_up_recap.pdf visit summary] highlighting insights and recommendations from our discussions with Ms. Farha, who now leads global housing rights organization, [https://make-the-shift.org/ The Shift]. Here you’ll also find helpful links to learning resources and legal tools to help us advance housing as a human right. [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/b/b6/Farha_visit_follow_up_recap.pdf (Download report PDF)]
 
  
 
<big>'''Racial Equity & Justice'''</big><br>
 
<big>'''Racial Equity & Justice'''</big><br>
  
HRCA is active as part of a broad coalition of community members and organizations committed to ending and redressing long-standing racial inequalities, inequities, and discrimination in the Pittsburgh region and beyond, recognizing that [https://migrationnetwork.un.org/statements/freedom-racial-discrimination-right-not-privilege Freedom from Racial Discrimination is a Right, Not a Privilege].  
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:HRCA is active as part of a broad coalition of community members and organizations committed to ending and redressing long-standing racial inequalities, inequities, and discrimination in the Pittsburgh region and beyond, recognizing that [https://migrationnetwork.un.org/statements/freedom-racial-discrimination-right-not-privilege Freedom from Racial Discrimination is a Right, Not a Privilege].  
  
This work includes raising awareness of the U.S. government's ''legal obligation'' to address racial discrimination under international law. For example, the U.S. ratified the [https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/international-convention-elimination-all-forms-racial International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD)] in 1994 and has thus legally agreed to comply with and implement its requirements.
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:This work includes raising awareness of the U.S. government's ''legal obligation'' to address racial discrimination under international law. For example, the U.S. ratified the [https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/international-convention-elimination-all-forms-racial International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD)] in 1994 and has thus legally agreed to comply with and implement its requirements.
  
 
'''Recent events & actions:'''<br>
 
'''Recent events & actions:'''<br>
  
* (November 2023) HRCA members prepared an '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/c/ce/EMLER_2023_Report_Executive_Summary_%281%29_%28002%29.pdf Executive Summary of the UN Expert Mechanism's Report on Racial Discrimination in Law Enforcement]''' for local elected officials to raise awareness of the UN's investigation, conclusions, and recommendations following its U.S. Country Visit in April & May 2023.   
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:* (November 2023) HRCA members prepared an '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/c/ce/EMLER_2023_Report_Executive_Summary_%281%29_%28002%29.pdf Executive Summary of the UN Expert Mechanism's Report on Racial Discrimination in Law Enforcement]''' for local elected officials to raise awareness of the UN's investigation, conclusions, and recommendations following its U.S. Country Visit in April & May 2023.   
  
*(October 2023) HRCA organized a panel discussion of UN recommendations to end racially discriminatory policing and uphold human rights in the context of law enforcement. ''Event Panelists:'' Brandi Fisher (Alliance for Police Accountability), Tanisha Long (Abolitionist Law Center), Muhammad Ali Nasir (MAN-E) (1Hood Media), Laura Perkins (Casa San Jose). Read the UN reports: '''[https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/country-reports/ahrc54crp7-international-independent-expert-mechanism-advance-racial U.S. Country Visit 2023]''' & '''[https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/thematic-reports/ahrc5469-promotion-and-protection-human-rights-and-fundamental-freedoms Reimagining Policing 2023]'''. Event recording: '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mln3pO5otIg UN Report Condemns Racial Discrimination in U.S. Law Enforcement: How does this relate to Southwest PA?]'''
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:*(October 2023) HRCA organized a panel discussion of UN recommendations to end racially discriminatory policing and uphold human rights in the context of law enforcement. ''Event Panelists:'' Brandi Fisher (Alliance for Police Accountability), Tanisha Long (Abolitionist Law Center), Muhammad Ali Nasir (MAN-E) (1Hood Media), Laura Perkins (Casa San Jose). Read the UN reports: '''[https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/country-reports/ahrc54crp7-international-independent-expert-mechanism-advance-racial U.S. Country Visit 2023]''' & '''[https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/thematic-reports/ahrc5469-promotion-and-protection-human-rights-and-fundamental-freedoms Reimagining Policing 2023]'''. Event recording: '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mln3pO5otIg UN Report Condemns Racial Discrimination in U.S. Law Enforcement: How does this relate to Southwest PA?]'''
  
*(April 2023) HRCA joined the Alliance for Police Accountability and other advocates in submitting a report on policing and racial discrimination in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County to the UN's [https://www.ohchr.org/en/hrc-subsidiaries/expert-mechanism-racial-justice-law-enforcement International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in the context of Law Enforcement] (EMLER) ahead of its visit to the US from April 24 to May 5, 2023. (Full report: '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/e/ec/PGH_Report_on_Policing_to_UN_2023_BEST.pdf Treatment of People of African Descent by Law Enforcement Agencies in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County]''', Press release: '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/0/0e/Press_Release_Pittsburgh_EMLER_Submission_2023.pdf Local Advocates File Report on Police Discrimination in Allegheny County to UN Fact-Finding Body on Law Enforcement and Racial Justice]''')
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:*(April 2023) HRCA joined the Alliance for Police Accountability and other advocates in submitting a report on policing and racial discrimination in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County to the UN's [https://www.ohchr.org/en/hrc-subsidiaries/expert-mechanism-racial-justice-law-enforcement International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in the context of Law Enforcement] (EMLER) ahead of its visit to the US from April 24 to May 5, 2023. (Full report: '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/e/ec/PGH_Report_on_Policing_to_UN_2023_BEST.pdf Treatment of People of African Descent by Law Enforcement Agencies in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County]''', Press release: '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/0/0e/Press_Release_Pittsburgh_EMLER_Submission_2023.pdf Local Advocates File Report on Police Discrimination in Allegheny County to UN Fact-Finding Body on Law Enforcement and Racial Justice]''')
  
*(November 2022) HRCA assisted to facilitate a listening session with Justin Hansford, Professor of Law at Howard University School of Law and an elected founding member of the [https://www.ohchr.org/en/permanent-forum-people-african-descent UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent]. For more details, review our summary [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/d/de/Summary_document_of_Taking_Back_Our_Human_Rights_Event_EDITED.pdf '''Taking Back Our Human Rights: Black Pittsburgh's Appeal to the World'''] and our '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/index.php?title=Taking_Back_our_Human_Rights!_Building_a_Black_Regional_Agenda_for_Justice background page]''' for the event.
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:*(November 2022) HRCA assisted to facilitate a listening session with Justin Hansford, Professor of Law at Howard University School of Law and an elected founding member of the [https://www.ohchr.org/en/permanent-forum-people-african-descent UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent]. For more details, review our summary [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/d/de/Summary_document_of_Taking_Back_Our_Human_Rights_Event_EDITED.pdf '''Taking Back Our Human Rights: Black Pittsburgh's Appeal to the World'''] and our '''[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/index.php?title=Taking_Back_our_Human_Rights!_Building_a_Black_Regional_Agenda_for_Justice background page]''' for the event.
  
*(July 2022) HRCA prepared and submitted a Shadow Report to the United Nations CERD Committee (Full report: '''[https://tbinternet.ohchr.org/_layouts/15/treatybodyexternal/Download.aspx?symbolno=INT%2fCERD%2fNGO%2fUSA%2f49212&Lang=en Racial Discrimination & Equity in the United States: Evidence from Pittsburgh]''', Summary report: [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/4/44/CERD_Pittsburgh_2_Page_Summary_2022.pdf '''Summary Document'''])
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:*(July 2022) HRCA prepared and submitted a Shadow Report to the United Nations CERD Committee (Full report: '''[https://tbinternet.ohchr.org/_layouts/15/treatybodyexternal/Download.aspx?symbolno=INT%2fCERD%2fNGO%2fUSA%2f49212&Lang=en Racial Discrimination & Equity in the United States: Evidence from Pittsburgh]''', Summary report: [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/4/44/CERD_Pittsburgh_2_Page_Summary_2022.pdf '''Summary Document'''])
  
 
<big>'''Creating a Human Rights City'''</big><br>
 
<big>'''Creating a Human Rights City'''</big><br>
  
In 2011, the City of Pittsburgh issued a [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/6/6e/Pittsburgh_Human_Rights_City_Resolution.pdf Proclamation] declaring Pittsburgh the 5th Human Rights City in the U.S.. While this represents a step in the right direction, much work remains to strengthen and actually realize the City's commitment and to create a City in which everyone can thrive. We’re drawing from examples in other cities such as Atlanta to bring stronger human rights commitments along with processes for monitoring and setting targets for advancing equity and protecting the rights of all residents.  
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:In 2011, the City of Pittsburgh issued a [http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/6/6e/Pittsburgh_Human_Rights_City_Resolution.pdf Proclamation] declaring Pittsburgh the 5th Human Rights City in the U.S.. While this represents a step in the right direction, much work remains to strengthen and actually realize the City's commitment and to create a City in which everyone can thrive. We’re drawing from examples in other cities such as Atlanta to bring stronger human rights commitments along with processes for monitoring and setting targets for advancing equity and protecting the rights of all residents.
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'''Relevant Events & Actions'''
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:*(December 10 2024) '''International Human Rights Day Press Conference & Proclamation'''. The Human Rights City Alliance assisted in bringing together City leaders, residents, and community groups to commemorate the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and to renew our shared commitment to using human rights as a path to building a just and equitable city in which everyone can thrive. The Mayor's office also issued and presented our proclamation recognizing Dec. 10 as International Human Rights Day in the City of Pittsburgh.  
  
 
'''Relevant Documents'''<br>
 
'''Relevant Documents'''<br>
  
*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/5/5b/Draft_Resolution_Pittsburgh_2023_HR_City_Update_Discussion_ver.pdf Draft Resolution to Renew and Update Pittsburgh’s Human Rights City Status]
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:*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/5/5b/Draft_Resolution_Pittsburgh_2023_HR_City_Update_Discussion_ver.pdf Draft Resolution to Renew and Update Pittsburgh’s Human Rights City Status]
  
*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/3/31/Gainey_Transition_Report_Response_Final.pdf Bringing a Human Rights Perspective to Mayor Gainey’s Transition Report 2022]
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:*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/3/31/Gainey_Transition_Report_Response_Final.pdf Bringing a Human Rights Perspective to Mayor Gainey’s Transition Report 2022]
*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/7/7c/Human_Rights_Day_2021_Gainey_Letter.pdf Message to Mayor-Elect Gainey on International Human Rights Day 2021] (Dec. 10)
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:*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/7/7c/Human_Rights_Day_2021_Gainey_Letter.pdf Message to Mayor-Elect Gainey on International Human Rights Day 2021] (Dec. 10)
  
*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/d/d0/Pittsburgh_Press_release.pdf Pittsburgh Delegation Attends Human Rights Cities Leadership Summit in Atlanta, May 2023] - As part of our work with human rights cities and human rights advocates around the country and around the world, we brought a team of more than two dozen Pittsburgh activists, youth, and policy experts to Atlanta to learn, share, and network.
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:*[http://wiki.pghrights.mayfirst.org/images/d/d0/Pittsburgh_Press_release.pdf Pittsburgh Delegation Attends Human Rights Cities Leadership Summit in Atlanta, May 2023] - As part of our work with human rights cities and human rights advocates around the country and around the world, we brought a team of more than two dozen Pittsburgh activists, youth, and policy experts to Atlanta to learn, share, and network.
  
 
<big>'''Human Rights Education & Outreach'''</big><br>
 
<big>'''Human Rights Education & Outreach'''</big><br>
  
A key focus of HRCA is raising awareness among civil society and elected officials of the [https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-and-mechanisms international human rights framework], and how we can (and should) use this framework to advocate for, monitor, and uphold "people-centered human rights" at home. This work includes building a movement of human rights enforcers and educating elected and government officials about their obligations under [https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-and-mechanisms/international-human-rights-law international human rights laws].  
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:A key focus of HRCA is raising awareness among civil society and elected officials of the [https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-and-mechanisms international human rights framework], and how we can (and should) use this framework to advocate for, monitor, and uphold "people-centered human rights" at home. This work includes building a movement of human rights enforcers and educating elected and government officials about their obligations under [https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-and-mechanisms/international-human-rights-law international human rights laws].  
  
 
'''Relevant Documents'''<br>
 
'''Relevant Documents'''<br>
  
*[https://www.ohchr.org/en/universal-declaration-of-human-rights Universal Declaration of Human Rights]
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:*[https://www.ohchr.org/en/universal-declaration-of-human-rights Universal Declaration of Human Rights]
*[https://www.ohchr.org/en/what-are-human-rights/international-bill-human-rights International Bill of Human Rights]
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:*[https://www.ohchr.org/en/what-are-human-rights/international-bill-human-rights International Bill of Human Rights]
  
 
=Resources=
 
=Resources=
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* [[:file:Annual_Report_2016.pdf|2016 Annual Report]]: See what we've done in the past year as we look forward to strengthening Pittsburgh activism for human rights in the year ahead!
 
* [[:file:Annual_Report_2016.pdf|2016 Annual Report]]: See what we've done in the past year as we look forward to strengthening Pittsburgh activism for human rights in the year ahead!
 
* [[:file:Annual_Report_2015.pdf|2015 Annual Report]]
 
* [[:file:Annual_Report_2015.pdf|2015 Annual Report]]
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*Official [[Reports to UN Human Rights Bodies]] (multiple years)
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=Past Events & Actions=
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*[[Past Actions & Events]]
  
 
=Archive=
 
=Archive=
 
*[[Archive]]
 
*[[Archive]]
  
<br /> <br /> <br /> <span style="display: block; text-align: center"><span style="display: block; text-align: center">''<span style="font-family: &#39;Arial&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;; font-size: 18.6667px">Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.</span>'' <span style="display: block">--Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.</span></span></span><br /> <br /> <span style="display: block; text-align: center">'''<u><span style="font-family: &#39;Arial&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;">Website: pghrights.org</span></u>''' <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: &#39;Arial&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;">Facebook: </span><span style="font-family: &#39;Arial&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;">pghrights</span></span><br />
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<br /> <br /> <br /> <span style="display: block; text-align: center"><span style="display: block; text-align: center">''<span style="font-family: &#39;Arial&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;; font-size: 18.6667px">Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.</span>'' <span style="display: block">--Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.</span>
 
 
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<br /> <span style="display: block; text-align: center">https://www.facebook.com/groups/pghrights/<br /> </span><span style="display: block; font-size: 130%; text-align: center">#pghrights</span><br /> <span style="color: #0000ff; display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 19.2px; text-align: center"><span style="color: #0b0b24; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 19.2px">e-mail: pghrights [at] riseup.net</span></span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-size: 140%">[[:file:UDHR_PGHedition_FOR_RELEASE.pdf|Universal Declaration of Human Rights booklet with Pittsburgh's Human Rights City Proclamation]]</span><br />
 
  
 
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Latest revision as of 12:16, 19 December 2024

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Pittsburgh Human Rights City AllianceDignity & Justice for All of Us"Human rights don't trickle down...they RISE UP!"

About Us

Pittsburgh Human Rights City Alliance is a grassroots network of individuals and groups committed to advancing and protecting human rights for all people in our region. We work to create a culture of human rights by building and supporting broad coalitions advocating for human rights, fostering human rights learning, and promoting policies that help all people to live with dignity and justice.

We work to bring together diverse groups and individuals to encourage the realization of our City Council's 2011 Proclamation declaring Pittsburgh a "human rights city". We strive to foster a human rights culture that maximizes human rights and dignity for all people who live in our region (See Human Rights Cities Principles). We help network leading community organizations and concerned residents to advance people-centered human rights in Pittsburgh. We cannot wait for leaders in Washington to protect our basic rights! It takes engaged and creative efforts of community residents to "bring human rights home"!

Ways to Get Involved

Subscribe

Subscribe to our newsletterfor updates on events & action opportunities!
University Human Rights Working Group: Faculty members, staff and graduate students can subscribe here.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

Join a Working Group
--Working groups meet regularly to develop projects on specific issues. Everyone is welcome to attend & learn about local human rights issues and find ways to get involved! Current working groups include:

For more information, meeting times and links, please contact Maddy McGrady at madeline@theglobalswitchboard.org

Calendar

SAVE THE DATE! 5 April 2025: Fair Housing Summit

Recent Events & Actions

  • International Human Rights Day 2024 Our annual Human Rights Day press conference was successful, and we helped set the stage for city leaders from the Mayor’s office and Council to speak to the importance of our shared work to defend human rights in our city. The Human Rights City Alliance was presented with a Proclamation from the Mayor’s office reinforcing the City’s commitment to "respect, protect and fulfill human rights and to promote a culture of human rights in our city."

Current Work

The Human Rights City Alliance helps build alliances among individuals and groups in our area supporting human rights for all. We support local engagement in national and international human rights advocacy, and participate in UN human rights reviews of U.S. policies.

Universal Periodic Review 2025

We are currently involved in the United Nations Universal Periodic Review of the U.S. government and will be hosting a series of related community forums. See our Reports to UN Human Rights Bodies, submitted as part of the global work to improve compliance with international human rights law.

Working Groups Our current working groups focus on the following issue areas, and they are shaped by efforts of volunteers like you!

Housing Rights & Justice

HRCA is an active member of the Pittsburgh Housing Justice Table, a coalition of allied local organizations and independent advocates who believe that housing is a human right and that everyone should have access to the housing they need. Our Housing Rights Working Group supports the work of the Housing Justice Table through related events, education and advocacy efforts.
Through community engagement and conversations with Housing Justice Table coalition partners, HRCA developed A Human Rights-based Housing Strategy and Action Plan for Pittsburgh, PA which serves as a guiding document for our housing advocacy. We want our goals and strategy to reflect the needs and perspectives of our community, which is why we invite residents to review the document and share input with us so that we can strengthen it. Send your comments to hrca@theglobalswitchboard.org or join us for our next working group meeting!
You can learn more about the history behind our research and strategy conversations by reviewing our resource page, Building Pittsburgh's Human Rights Housing Strategy

Steel City Cooperative Housing Initiative

Relevant Events & Actions

  • (November 14, 2024), Student Housing & Tenant Rights Workshop at Carnegie Mellon University. Students are facing a housing crisis that is affecting them financially, physically, emotionally, and academically. Join Carnegie Mellon Health Promotion and the Pittsburgh Human Rights City Alliance as we team up to discuss student housing justice, tenant rights, organizing efforts in the broader community, and more. Register by visiting tinyurl.com/HousingRightsCMU

Racial Equity & Justice

HRCA is active as part of a broad coalition of community members and organizations committed to ending and redressing long-standing racial inequalities, inequities, and discrimination in the Pittsburgh region and beyond, recognizing that Freedom from Racial Discrimination is a Right, Not a Privilege.
This work includes raising awareness of the U.S. government's legal obligation to address racial discrimination under international law. For example, the U.S. ratified the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) in 1994 and has thus legally agreed to comply with and implement its requirements.

Recent events & actions:

Creating a Human Rights City

In 2011, the City of Pittsburgh issued a Proclamation declaring Pittsburgh the 5th Human Rights City in the U.S.. While this represents a step in the right direction, much work remains to strengthen and actually realize the City's commitment and to create a City in which everyone can thrive. We’re drawing from examples in other cities such as Atlanta to bring stronger human rights commitments along with processes for monitoring and setting targets for advancing equity and protecting the rights of all residents.

Relevant Events & Actions

  • (December 10 2024) International Human Rights Day Press Conference & Proclamation. The Human Rights City Alliance assisted in bringing together City leaders, residents, and community groups to commemorate the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and to renew our shared commitment to using human rights as a path to building a just and equitable city in which everyone can thrive. The Mayor's office also issued and presented our proclamation recognizing Dec. 10 as International Human Rights Day in the City of Pittsburgh.

Relevant Documents

Human Rights Education & Outreach

A key focus of HRCA is raising awareness among civil society and elected officials of the international human rights framework, and how we can (and should) use this framework to advocate for, monitor, and uphold "people-centered human rights" at home. This work includes building a movement of human rights enforcers and educating elected and government officials about their obligations under international human rights laws.

Relevant Documents

Resources

Link to more resources--toolkits, reports, and organizations supporting local human rights work

Annual Reports

Past Events & Actions

Archive




Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. --Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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