Every year GVP students learn about rights and what they entail. The Rights Unit is one of GVP’s integrated units of study. Students examine human rights as well as personal and social responsibilities. All GVP students learn about education rights and human rights through reading and role play. They learn how people can bring about changes in their communities, states and country.

As part of this unit, our Form 3 students participated in the New American Celebration at the Georgia State Capitol on February 13, 2024. This event, held annually for the past 11 years, brings together people from refugee, immigrant and allied communities to highlight the narratives and efforts of Georgia’s newcomers. It serves as a platform for advocating for a more inclusive and welcoming state. As a member of the Coalition of Refugee Service Agencies (CRSA), GVP takes pride in collaborating with like-minded organizations to interact with state legislators and promote legislation aimed at safeguarding and empowering Georgia’s new American residents.

This year at the celebration, GVP girls presented letters to some of their representatives. They all wrote letters, many advocating for HB 404: Safe at Home Act, which calls for safer and more affordable housing for refugees and immigrants.

Mr. Crispin, GVP’s Student and Community Engagement Manager, participated in the press conference along with a set of twin sisters who attend GVP. They spoke about the importance of education and how GVP has supported their own education. “When we were in Tanzania, we saw girls who were our age getting married. In America, with education we have choices. Education is key in life. If you go to school and you learn, you can become anything you want in the future. For example, my sister and I go to school because we want to become a police officer and a judge.”

When students understand their rights, they can leverage that knowledge through participation at events like the New American Celebration to make their voices heard and to advocate for their broader communities!