In the spirit of solidarity

CLUBS, ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORT HUMAN RIGHTS

BY HUNTER HARRELL

Want to be a champion for human rights? It’s an exciting time to get involved in an organization that focuses on efforts that protect and support marginalized groups with the goal of improving equity, personal well-being and quality of life for every individual. Since the United Nations released the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, awareness and interest in protecting human rights has grown steadily. Groups that organize around human rights are often advocates for vulnerable groups of people. While some groups ensure that people have basic needs met, such as food, water, shelter and health care, others grant residents access to educational opportunities or encourage freedom of speech and expression. In the Four Corners, there are several examples of regional clubs, groups and nonprofit organizations working to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion.

DURANGO PEACE AND JUSTICE COALITION

Founded in 2016, Durango Peace and Justice provides networks and resources for organizations and individuals to advance peace and social justice. The coalition often collaborates with other groups for underrepresented voices and their allies that share similar missions to advance action and host educational and social events.

FOUR CORNERS RAINBOW YOUTH CENTER

By placing emphasis on building a safe space for community and connection, Four Corners Rainbow Youth empowers Lesbian, Gay, Two Spirit, Transgender, Bisexual, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LG2TBQIA+) youth, their families and allies in Southwest Colorado. The nonprofit organization provides education, guidance and support in addition to hosting after school programs and social events.

4STAR

Four Corners Support for Transgender people, Allies and Relatives (4STARS) is a group that focuses on the emotional and social well-being of individuals by providing supportive spaces and educational resources for individuals and families. The support group meets regularly on the first Sunday and the third Thursday of each month.

FOUR CORNERS ALLIANCE FOR DIVERSITY

Many of the groups above, especially Four Corners Rainbow Youth Center, closely collaborate with Four Corners Alliance for Diversity. This nonprofit focuses on outreach initiatives, educational programs and social events that promote positive change, including equality and social justice for marginalized groups. Through donations, grant funding and sponsorships, the group and its members are able to serve the community at large.

NEIGHBORS IN NEED ALLIANCE

Established in 2019, Neighbors in Need Alliance coordinates efforts between concerned community members, nonprofit groups, faithbased organizations and local government to address the needs of the unhoused population in Durango. NINA is focused on projects that provide immediate service and support, as well as long-term initiatives that create safe, stable transitional housing.

INDIVISIBLE DURANGO

A grassroots movement, Indivisible Durango, focuses on legislation and policies that reflect the values of inclusiveness, respect, fairness, honesty, integrity, peace and hope. Some of the issues they challenge through activism include but are not limited to economic justice, voting rights and climate change.

SOUTHWEST CENTER FOR INDEPENDENCE

In 1990, Southwest Center for Independence was established as a hub for information about the Independent Living movement and referrals to local resources by a small group of residents with disabilities. Over time, the nonprofit has evolved as an Independent Living Center to serve five counties through programs like peer counseling, skills training, advocacy and additional programs that provide job placement and transportation services.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

For residents with developmental and intellectual disabilities, it can be difficult to find employment opportunities or participate in community events. Community Connections is a nonprofit organization that serves and supports individuals with disabilities at any age. Whether helping young children reach important milestones or advocating for improvements that make public spaces more accessible for everybody, the inclusive philosophy is the key.