Iowa City Human Rights Commission hosts community meet & greet for International Human Rights Day 2025

The Iowa City Human Rights Commission invites community members to a meet & greet in celebration of International Human Rights Day from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, in the Wellness Room at the Mercer Park Aquatic Center & Scanlon Gym, 2701 Bradford Drive. This informal, drop-in gathering is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served.

This year's global theme, "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials," promoted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, emphasizes that human rights are woven into everyday life - shaping how people live, learn, work, and connect with their communities. The campaign encourages individuals to recognize that human rights are positive, essential, and attainable parts of daily experience.

The Commission's meet & greet will offer residents the chance to:

• Connect informally with Human Rights Commissioners
• Learn more about how human rights show up in daily community life
• Share experiences, concerns, and ideas with Commission members

"We're excited to create a welcoming space where people can drop in, have conversations, and connect with others who care about human rights," said Douglas Kollasch, Chair of the Iowa City Human Rights Commission. "This year's theme reminds us that human rights belong to everyone, every day-and our community benefits when we recognize and protect them together."

Sign up

Interested in attending? Just send a quick email to [email protected] or call 319-356-5022 to sign up.

About the Iowa City Human Rights Commission The Iowa City Human Rights Commission works to eliminate discrimination, promote understanding among community members, and strengthen the wellbeing of Iowa City residents through education, outreach, and advocacy.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in this event, please contact Stefanie Bowers, Human Rights Coordinator, in advance at [email protected] or 319-356-5022. Early requests help ensure your needs can be met.