This week, the Advocates were honored to welcome Dr. William Schulz, former Director of Amnesty International, for the 2008 Human Rights Law and Policy Conference.  He expressed his fondness for the Organization and described how United States Law and Policy can affect human rights around the globe.

Dr. Schulz discussed the way American history has affected our outlook on human rights.  The history of the United States, from the Puritans to the present, has produced a very outward looking country.  Americans hope to engage with and improve the world beyond their borders.  However, the question is whether or not this will be done with due reverence to international standards and the dignity of others.

The Doctor focused on possible ways that the United States could positively engage the world on human rights.  Among those discussed were engaging the International Criminal Court and the Human Rights Council.  But most important, said Dr. Schulz, is that the United States not allow itself to neglect the issue of international human rights.

Dr. Schulz commended the Advocates.  And he expressed hope that we, and similar organizations, could improve the American attitude toward human rights around the world.