The United for Human Rights US Conference 2026 convened 150 delegates in Washington, DC, for a two-day event focused on practical solutions and cross-sector collaboration to advance human dignity. The conference gathered professionals in human rights education, human trafficking prevention, veterans' advocacy, and community protection. Hosted in partnership between Youth for Human Rights International and the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights, the event united seasoned practitioners working on the front lines of these issues. Attendees included veterans, attorneys, nonprofit executives, community leaders, and advocates from across the United States, along with international delegates.
The opening session was held inside the United States Congress, situating the dialogue within the institution where national policy is shaped. The program featured three panels addressing human rights leadership on the global stage, human trafficking prevention strategy, and veterans' rights protections. Notable speakers included Porscha Lee Taylor, former Miss Africa USA and US Delegate at the UN Human Rights Summit; Hollie Nadel, Director of Advocacy and Engagement at 3Strands Global Foundation; Joy Craig, Associate Director of National Legislative Service for the Veterans of Foreign Wars; and Blanquita Cullum, co-founder of Voices Against Trafficking.
Dr. Mary Shuttleworth, Founder and President of Youth for Human Rights International, said, "Human rights education builds bridges to peace. Don't just believe in peace - build it!" On the second day, participants engaged in a Human Rights Advocacy & Public Engagement Training led by Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu, Founder of USIDHR and a DC Human Rights Commissioner, focusing on legislative literacy, community mobilization, and civic engagement. Anna Sineva, Director of Government Relations of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, presented on successful Congressional engagement. The conference concluded with a Human Rights Walk to the White House, symbolizing peaceful civic participation.
The 2026 conference marked a milestone for Youth for Human Rights International as Washington served as the first stop of Dr. Shuttleworth's annual World Educational Tour. Since 2004, her world tour has traveled over 650,000 miles and introduced human rights education initiatives to more than 1,200 government officials and leaders worldwide. "For 25 years, our mission has centered on education," said Dr. Shuttleworth. "But education must lead to action. This gathering reflects the strength of experienced professionals coming together to elevate solutions that protect human dignity."
