civic equality

Woman in wheelchair using elevator to board bus (© Steven Senne/AP)

Protecting the rights of people with disabilities helps all of us

Learn how increasing disability rights in a single country can lead to better outcomes, from social inclusion to strengthened economies.
Martin Luther King Jr. waving to crowd gathered along reflecting pool (© AFP/Getty Images)

How King’s words brought America closer to its best

Sixty years ago, Martin Luther King Jr. gave a speech that changed history. A scholar and a poet explain why his words still move Americans.
People sitting on chairs on stage listening to person speaking at lectern (State Dept./Freddie Everett)

Celebrating champions of equity and justice

The U.S. honored six courageous advocates who are combating systemic racism in their home countries. Learn about their vital work.
Partial image of four faces between two edges of torn paper (Graphic: State Dept./J. Maruszewski. Photos: © Michael Hall/The Image Bank, © fizkes/iStock, © 123ducu/E+, © Zurijeta/iStock, all via Getty Images)

Working together to end human trafficking

A new U.S. report will inform efforts to end human trafficking. Learn about heroes who are working to address this global challenge.
Profile of woman looking toward window (© LM Otero/AP)

Meet Opal Lee, ‘grandmother of Juneteenth’

Opal Lee, a 96-year-old activist from Texas, worked hard to get Juneteenth recognized as a federal holiday. Learn how she did it.
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.