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Science and Human Rights Coalition Meeting: July 14-15, 2011

The sixth meeting of the Coalition began with a screening of the film “After Innocence” chronicling the stories of eight individuals exonerated following the application of DNA and other scientific analysis. The film was followed by an interview with three experts on the role of science in the criminal justice system. A reception was held following the opening plenary.

On July 15, the Coalition meeting continued with information sessions, working meetings, and training workshops on human rights issues central to the mission of the Coalition. Sessions included “Evaluating the US Human Rights Record: The Universal Periodic Review,” “STEM Education: Diversity, Human Rights and New Curricula,” and “The Right to Benefit from Science: Engaging Your Association in the UN Process.”

Criminal Justice – Forensics and Human Rights

Interviewer: Mark S. Frankel, AAAS Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program

Panelists:

  • Joe S. Cecil, Federal Judicial Center Division of Research
  • Sarah Chu, The Innocence Project
  • Kenneth Melson, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Opening Plenary: Evaluating the U.S. Human Rights Record: The Universal Periodic Review

Facilitator: Jessica M. Wyndham, AAAS Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program [view PowerPoint]

Presenter:

  • Theresa Harris, World Organization for Human Rigts, USA [view PowerPoint]
  • Suzanne Nossel, State Department Bureau of International Organization Affairs

Article 12 (ICESCR): The Right of Everyone to the Enjoyment of the Highest Attainable Standard of Physical and Mental Health

Facilitator: Paula Skedsvold, Federation of Associations in Brain and Behavioral Sciences

Presenters:

STEM Education: Diversity, Human Rights and New Curricula

Facilitator: Felice Levine, American Educational Research Association

Presenters:

  • Shirley M. Malcom, AAAS Education and Human Resources Programs [view PowerPoint]
  • Karen Kashmanian Oates, Worcester Polytechnic Institute [view PowerPoint]
  • Liz Sullivan, Human Right to Education Program, NESRI [view PowerPoint]

Workshop: Engaging Your Discipline in the UPR Process

Presenter: Theresa Harris, World Organization for Human Rights, USA

Workshop: The Right to Benefit from Science: Engaging Your Association in the UN Process

Facilitator: Jessica M. Wyndham, AAAS Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program

Presenters:

  • Clinton W. Anderson, American University, Washington College of Law
  • Margaret Vitullo, American Sociological Association [view PowerPoint]