A few days ago, American Jewish World Service (AJWS) kicked off the We Believe campaign, an effort to support the rights and well-being of girls, women, and LGBT people around the world. This national advocacy campaign is calling on the U.S. government to do three things to promote human rights in the developing world: 1) Stop violence against women and girls; 2) Stop hate crimes against LGBT people; and 3) Empower girls to end child marriage.
A few dozen people gathered in the Cannon House Office Building to support the launch of the campaign. A number of congressmen joined in to emphasize the importance of the cause, and AJWS’s counterpart in Haiti, Marie-Ange Noel, addressed the critical need for the U.S. to set an example for the world to follow.
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Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY) shakes hands with guests while entering the reception for the launch of the “We Believe” campaign.
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Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI) discusses his recent trip to Liberia where he learned about the poor treatment of women in Africa.
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Invited guests listen to remarks about the importance of empowering women worldwide.
AJWS President Ruth Messinger (right-center) talks with Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI) (left-center) during the launch of the “We Believe” campaign.
Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) holds a “We Believe” pamphlet while talking with guests.
Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY) mingles with guests at the launch of the “We Believe” campaign.
Congressman Charlie Rangel (D-NY) comments on the importance of empowering women and human rights.
