Accessibility statement

Champions of Change

I think that this is a project that will lead the way. It is of prime importance to the defenders of human rights around the world

Baroness Helen Kennedy

The Centre was delighted to welcome many distinguished supporters and well-wishers to its "Champions of Change" reception at the House of Commons on 21st October 2009. The event raised awareness about, and funds for, the human rights defenders' fellowship scheme. MPs Richard Burden and Fabian Hamilton acted as hosts for the event. Baroness Helena Kennedy gave the keynote address, saying "I want to pay tribute to the University of York: what is so special about this project is that it allows individuals to have a moment of respite and time to recognize the skills they need, and for The Centre to work with each individual to allow them to acquire particular skills."

Professor Paul Gready provided an overview of the work of the Centre for Applied Human Rights; current Fellow, Paul Njoroge Njenga talked about his work in Kenya on extra-judicial killings by the police; and Jerry Lockspeiser, a member of the York Development Board, made a request for funds. The Centre also premiered a short film featuring past Fellows from Nepal and Sierra Leone talking about the challenges they face and the importance of their human rights work.