civic equality

People participating in religious ceremony on beach (© Antonello Veneri/AFP/Getty Images)

U.S. stands with defenders of religious freedom

The U.S. supports international partners' work to defend religious freedom around the world. Learn more about how.
Activists holding rainbow flag in parade (© Andre Penner/AP)

A day to stop discrimination against LGBTQI+ people

Learn more about the forms of discrimination LGBTQI+ people face and how everyone can create a more inclusive world.
Illustration of people looking at phones while walking past large column with electrical diagram as its grooves (State Dept./D. Thompson)

How technology can strengthen democracy

Activists are using technology to promote democracy initiatives. Find out how social justice movements use social media to build support.
Fridah Okomo standing on balcony with buildings and colorful evening sky in view (Courtesy of Fridah Okomo)

Young leaders promote democracy at home

Meet activists from Kenya and Estonia who are advancing democracy in their home countries after participating in a U.S.-backed program.
Woman in hard hat talking to two men in front of Golden Gate bridge pillar under construction (© AP)

First woman on a president’s Cabinet put workers first

Learn more about the first woman to serve as secretary of labor and hold a Cabinet position in the United States.
Judith Heumann smiling in wheelchair at end of indoor ramp (D.A. Peterson/State Dept.)

The enduring legacy of Judith Heumann [video]

Judith Heumann, who died March 4, spent more than five decades working for the rights of people with disabilities.
Man and woman signing different versions of a comment (© Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post/Getty Images)

A distinctive sign language thrives among Black Americans

Meet Carolyn McCaskill, a deaf American who educates the world about Black American Sign Language and the people who use it.
Group of people posing for photo (State Dept.)

Honoring human rights defenders

Labor and women's rights activists, a journalist and a surgeon are among recipients of the 2023 Human Rights Defender Awards.
Biden, López Obrador and Trudeau walking down stairs (© Andrew Harnik/AP)

Leaders take on North America’s biggest challenges

Learn more about what President Biden and other North American leaders discussed in terms of shared solutions to multiple challenges.