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 Soudie Tahmassebipour is an Iranian-American attorney and certified diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging expert. Prior to becoming a consultant, she worked for 20 years as a public defender, first at the New Hampshire Public Defenders Office and then at the Committee for Public Counsel Services in Massachusetts. She has supervised hundreds of attorneys and has dedicated her career to empowering and advocating for individuals who have been historically marginalized by the system. She is the founder and executive director of the Wachusett Area Social Justice Alliance and has presented at trainings and events all over New England and abroad. Soudi is also the founder of Reenvision Consulting, where she serves as its certified diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging strategist. You began your career as an attorney, working for two decades as a public defender in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. How did that experience inform the work you do now? My experience as a public defender redefined my perspective on justice systems in the United States and throughout the world. Our criminal justice system is incredibly broken. Much of the system as we know it was developed during segregation and when the majority of the country still didn't have access to voting rights. It is still painfully hierarchical and paternalistic in that people who report crimes often lose control over what happens throughout the process and people accused of crimes are publicly treated as guilty (regardless of what the Constitution explicitly tells us) in the way they are treated throughout the process. In even the most progressive legal systems around the world, "justice" still is more gracious and attainable for people from white or light-skinned, affluent backgrounds simply because of the power dynamics – and also because they can afford to hire experts and have an elaborative financial support system that allows them to maintain a roof over their heads and cut in front of the line into elaborate treatment programs that can mitigate the ultimate results of their case. Science and the system are rarely aligned. Children in many places are still being treated as adults even though for decades, scientific studies have shown that adolescent brain development impacts decision-making and people truly do make horrible decisions as youth that they would never make as adults. It's an important area that is still archaic in many ways and genuinely needs to be overhauled both here in the United States and throughout the world. Still, because of the factional political divide and stubborn adherence to outdated tradition, we are all sidelined and forced to observe painful injustice after injustice happen in our world, our communities, and even in our personal lives without a meaningful path towards healing and peace. Your current role is as a certified diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging strategist. Why does this work matter to you? My experience as an Iranian immigrant coupled with my experience as a public defender solidified my decision to become an organizational consultant with an emphasis on fostering healthy, equitable spaces for people from all backgrounds and lived experiences. I have experienced, firsthand, the impact of an unhealthy work environment on my health as well as my personal and professional relationships. I saw how it impacted my colleagues who were expected to work like machines while doing incredibly hard, trauma-based work with little personal reprieve. Even the most progressive countries still fail to prioritize healthy workplaces, even when it impacts retention and the bottom line. We engage in the same methods over and over again despite how they fail us and expect different results. It's short-sighted and just plain ignorant. If we learned nothing else from the recent pandemic, we should have learned that human beings in every role in our workplaces are vital to our mission and must be treated with dignity for our organizations to survive. If it wasn't for the hospital cleaning crews who were sent into clean rooms when we knew the least about the potential deadliness of the virus, the healthcare workers couldn't use the room for the next patient. If it wasn't for our grocery store clerks who went into work (because they often didn't have a choice) just to stock the shelves and check us out in our rush to get sustenance, many people couldn't hurry in and out of a potentially deadly environment to get their basic staples for their families. It is in our ability to see the shared humanity in each other that we can begin to do better by each other and create a healthier, more just world. That begins and ends with holding up the mirror to ourselves and our systems and changing what no longer serves us and is often, actually, destroying us. I want, so much, to leave the world a better place for future generations than we found it. I dream of a world where human beings aren't simply valued for what they produce but by who they are as individuals. I want us to create a world where everyone has an opportunity to live and thrive, not simply survive. I want us to embrace constant learning regardless of age and to support science and progress and healthy spaces where everyone can openly engage in dialogue towards a better humanity. Maybe that's too much to ask, but we can try. With organizations like Global Citizens Circle (GCC), we may even succeed! What is it about GCC that drew you to its mission and decades of work? GCC strives to create a world that embraces the justice and humanity I tried to describe above. Fifty years ago, the Dunfeys had a collective vision for a better world. When I learned about the organization, and then had the honor of meeting and getting to know some of the amazing people behind that vision, I knew I wanted to be a part of the organization. What GCC is doing is truly remarkable. There are so many amazing human rights organizations throughout the world; public defenders do this work individual by individual. Other direct service organizations work to meet the day-to-day human needs of our shared communities. What GCC does is create a space where silos can be broken down and great organizations doing the day-to-day work can come together and share their visions, missions, and values and, as a result, lift each other up. In a world where inhumanity often gets the headlines, GCC creates a space for truly thoughtful, open dialogue, where people from all over the world can feel like they are not alone in their hopes for a better, more just world. There are few organizations more dedicated to our shared humanity and who walk the talk better than the GCC. Imagine an organization that needs funding to sustain itself, that constantly shines the light on other organizations and encourages people to financially support them. That is the GCC way! I feel blessed, every day, to have found such an amazing organization. What has your involvement been with GCC, and what keeps you engaged? I love serving as a GCC Board Member. I am involved on many levels. I have facilitated a strategic planning session. I have recruited board members. I have helped with funding campaigns. Frankly, there is very little I wouldn't do if asked by the amazing leadership at GCC. That's how much I believe in the mission of this incredible organization. What advice do you have for those who wish to make a positive change in the world? I think every generation has to have a vested interest in working collectively to fight for justice and human rights around the world. We all have such valuable experiences and insights into real-life events that shaped who we are and the world we find ourselves in.
That can only happen through the efforts of organizations like the GCC where people from all over the world can come together to have really hard conversations. Conversations where we hold a mirror up and self-reflect on our roles in creating the challenges and implementing the changes we need to address injustice and inequities in our world. We must have continuous global dialogues to remind us of who we are today and who we want to become for the sake of the future of humanity. This work is vital and it needs to happen now. It is in our ability to see the shared humanity in each other that we can begin to do better by each other and create a healthier, more just world.
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Bridging the Gap Between Awareness and Action: A Q&A with Activist and Writer Batseba Seifu6/17/2024  Batseba Seifu holds a Master of Public Administration from New York University and a B.A. in Law and Justice with short-term trainings in International Humanitarian Law; Displacement, Conflict, and Protection; and Operational Research for Humanitarians. She has more than a decade of experience in public service from leading the Black Students Union at North Seattle College to designing and implementing e-learning programs for Peace and Security in Africa to her role as a Country Manager at an Irish social enterprise. Focused on the plight of Tigray, she's dedicated to advocacy, research, and policy influence, bridging the gap between awareness and action. Batseba recently discussed her education, her journey to activism, and what continues to fuels her work and her writing with GCC. Tell us about the work you do as a human rights activist and as a humanitarian. What led you to that role? My journey into advocacy and social justice began with a profound dedication to serving others and fighting for what's right. Whether it was developing e-learning programs for peacebuilding in Africa at the Institute for Peace and Security Studies or leading the Black Students Union in the U.S., each step highlighted the urgent need to tackle systemic injustices. My educational background in law and justice and Master of Public Administration further fueled my passion for creating positive change. Yet, it was the devastating genocide in Tigray that truly ignited a fire within me. Unable to stand idly by, I threw myself into advocacy efforts, using my skills in research and storytelling to raise awareness and demand accountability. In addition to advocacy, I organized fundraising campaigns to provide support to the resilient people of Tigray, from medical supplies to women's empowerment programs. I also empowered local civil society organizations through grant writing workshop and grant writing assistance, recognizing the importance of grassroots movements in effecting change. Furthermore, I engaged in international discussions on war rape, shedding light on this often-overlooked aspect of conflict-related violence. My goal is to foster global solidarity in addressing such egregious violations of human rights. However, my journey has not been without personal sacrifice. The siege in Tigray led to lack of connections with my family, and a relative faced imprisonment under deplorable conditions due to their Tigrayan ethnicity. Despite these challenges, my determination remains unshakable, fueled by the belief that together, we can create a world where justice is not just a dream, but a reality lived by all. How did you get involved as an activist, and what cause is most important to you? I studied (for a) B.A. in Law and Justice at Central Washington University and a Master of Public Administration at New York University. I also gained experience. This background intersected with the unfolding genocide in Tigray. In the midst of the genocidal war, the Pretoria Agreement was signed. The Pretoria Agreement was crafted on the principles of humanitarian access, constitutional order, and respect for human rights in Tigray. Yet, it was violated because of political machinations and outright hostility by the Ethiopian government. Despite the agreement's explicit call for unfettered humanitarian access to all in need, the Federal government denied the severity of the humanitarian crisis obstructing aid, vast swathes of Tigray remain devoid of lifesaving aid, and humanitarian aid was being misappropriated, stolen, or diverted for non-humanitarian purposes. This caused the suffering of millions. The Pretoria Agreement's commitment to the reinstatement of the Tigray's rightful boundaries was also unfulfilled. The forceful and illegal occupation of Tigrayan lands by Amhara and Eritrean forces exacerbated the protracted conflict and caused immense human rights abuses for Tigrayans in the occupied areas. The rampant human rights abuses perpetrated against Tigrayan citizens, including arbitrary arrests (which is starting again now in Addis Ababa), continued detention from previous mass arrests, and ethnic cleansing by Amhara and Eritrean forces, represents a betrayal of the agreement's promise to respect human rights. In addition, my activism has been fueled by the pressing need for human rights and democratization within Tigray. These are some of the issues I am working on. In terms of my writings, I recently published with TGHAT media, UMD media , Modern Diplomacy (also same article published in a blog by Martin Plaut), and I have an article on way by Africa in London School of Economics. How has your education in public administration and paralegal studies informed your work as an activist? My education in public administration and paralegal studies has profoundly shaped and informed my work as an activist in several keyways: Studying public administration has provided me with a deep understanding of governmental systems, structures, and processes. Through my education in public administration, I have developed skills in policy analysis, formulation, and evaluation. This enables me to critically assess government policies, legislation, and programs, (both written and unwritten) identifying their impact on marginalized communities and advocating for necessary reforms. My background in law and justice has equipped me with a strong foundation in legal principles, procedures, and research methods. This legal literacy has been instrumental in advocating for the protection of human rights, as it enables me to identify and analyze legal frameworks, international treaties, and human rights instruments relevant to specific advocacy campaigns. Both fields of study emphasize the importance of community engagement, empowerment, and grassroots mobilization. My education has equipped me with the skills to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including community members, civil society organizations, and grassroots activists. By fostering participatory approaches to advocacy, I strive to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, build coalitions, and mobilize collective action to address systemic injustices and promote positive social change. In summary, my education in public administration and law and justice serves as a strong foundation for my activism, providing me with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to advocate for human rights, social justice, and democratic governance. By leveraging my educational background, I am better equipped to navigate complex legal systems, analyze policy implications, engage with diverse stakeholders, and empower communities to advocate for their rights and freedoms. Who do you follow for inspiration, leadership or encouragement? Anyone who advocates for human flourishing is my role model. You're also a writer. What are some of the topics you focus on and where is your work published? As a writer deeply invested in the Tigrayan narrative, my focus spans a broad spectrum of topics that reflect the multifaceted nature of the region's contemporary struggles. Central to my writing is an unwavering commitment to shedding light on the challenges faced by Tigrayans today, whether they stem from political unrest, humanitarian crises, or social injustices. One of the primary areas of exploration in my work is the ongoing genocide and instability in Tigray. Through meticulous research, I aim to provide comprehensive coverage. By amplifying the voices of those affected by violence, displacement, and human rights abuses, I seek to raise awareness and advocate for meaningful interventions to address the root causes of the crisis. In addition to the genocide, my writing also delves into the humanitarian emergencies unfolding in Tigray, including food insecurity, displacement, and access to essential services. By documenting the humanitarian fallout of the genocidal war and highlighting the urgent needs of Tigrayan communities, I strive to mobilize support and resources to alleviate their suffering and rebuild their lives. Furthermore, my work addresses the broader socio-political dynamics at play in Tigray, including issues of governance, democracy, and self-determination. Through critical analysis and commentary, I seek to foster dialogue and debate about the future of Tigray. By advocating for inclusive and participatory decision-making processes, I aim to empower Tigrayan voices. As for my publishing outlets, I am proud to have contributed to esteemed platforms such as Omna Tigray, Axumawian Media, and Tigrai Online. These platforms serve as vital hubs for Tigrayan intellectuals, activists, and artists to engage in dialogue, exchange ideas, and mobilize support for the Tigrayan cause. By publishing my work in these outlets, I hope to reach a diverse audience and catalyse meaningful conversations about Tigray's past, present, and future. In addition, I have a blog, Everything Tigray. I have also been interviewed by The Atlas News and Deutsche Welle Amharic. Overall, my writing endeavors to be a catalyst for change, challenging perceptions, amplifying marginalized voices, and advocating for the dignity, rights, and aspirations of the Tigrayan people. Through rigorous research, compelling narratives, and a commitment to truth and justice, I strive to make a meaningful contribution to the ongoing discourse surrounding Tigray and its global diaspora. What's your connection to Global Citizens Circle? My connection to Global Citizens Circle is deeply personal and fulfilling, intertwining with a tapestry of experiences, engagements, and shared values that have enriched my journey in profound ways. It all began when I had the privilege of attending an online event entitled "Feminism and Intersectionality," a pivotal moment that ignited a spark within me. As the discussions unfolded, I found myself immersed in a vibrant dialogue that delved into the complexities of gender equality and the intersecting layers of identity that shape our experiences. From the courageous stories shared to the insightful analyses offered, every moment resonated with authenticity and purpose, leaving an indelible impression on my heart and mind. In that virtual space, I discovered not only a platform for advocacy but also a community – a global tapestry of individuals united by a common vision for social justice and equity. It was a revelation to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique perspectives and passions to the forefront. Through shared stories, mutual support, and collective action, we found strength in solidarity and resilience in our shared pursuit of a better world. One of the defining moments of my journey with Global Citizens Circle came when I encountered an article highlighting the devastating impact of the genocidal war on the environment in Tigray through Global Citizens Circle newsletter. Moved by the urgency of the issue and the imperative to amplify marginalized voices, I felt compelled to take action. With unwavering determination, I shared the article extensively, leveraging the power of storytelling to raise awareness and mobilize support for those most affected by the crisis. Yet, my journey with Global Citizens Circle was not limited to bearing witness to the struggles of others; it was also a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Encouraged by the inclusive ethos of the organization, I mustered the courage to contribute an article of my own – a testament to the power of community and the liberating potential of authentic expression. The reception was beyond my expectations. Far from a mere acknowledgment, my contribution was met with warmth, enthusiasm, and a genuine sense of appreciation from the Global Citizens Circle community. As I reflect on my journey with Global Citizens Circle, I am filled with gratitude – for the lessons learned, and the moments of profound connection that have enriched my life. Together, we stand as global citizens, united in our commitment to building a more just, equitable, and compassionate world for all. What advice do you have for young people throughout the world who have a desire to create positive change? As someone deeply committed to creating positive change, I offer the following advice to young people around the world who share a desire to make a difference: 1. The journey towards positive change begins with self-belief. Have confidence in your abilities, passion, and potential to effect meaningful change in the world. Trust in your vision and don't let self-doubt hold you back from pursuing your dreams. 2. Knowledge is a powerful tool for change. Take the time to educate yourself about the issues you care about, whether it's human rights, environmental sustainability, social justice, or gender equality. Stay informed, seek out diverse perspectives, and continuously expand your understanding of the world around you. 3. Identify the causes and issues that resonate deeply with your values and interests. Whether it's advocating for marginalized communities, protecting the environment, or promoting education, find your passion and channel your energy towards making a difference in that area. 4. Positive change begins with action. Start small by volunteering in your local community, participating in advocacy campaigns, or raising awareness about important issues on social media. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the potential to create ripple effects of change. 5. Seek out like-minded individuals and organizations who share your passion for positive change. Collaborate with others, build networks, and leverage collective power to amplify your impact and achieve common goals. Remember, change is often achieved more effectively through collective action than individual efforts alone. 6. Creating positive change is rarely easy and may involve facing obstacles, setbacks, and resistance along the way. Stay resilient in the face of adversity, persevere in your efforts, and learn from challenges and failures. Every setback is an opportunity for growth and resilience. 7. Seek to understand the perspectives and experiences of others, especially those who may be marginalized or disadvantaged. Practice empathy, compassion, and active listening in your interactions with others, and strive to build bridges of understanding and solidarity across differences. 8. Positive change often takes time and requires sustained effort and commitment. Be patient with the process, stay focused on your goals, and remain persistent in your advocacy and activism. Celebrate small victories along the way and stay motivated by the knowledge that every step forward brings us closer to a better world. 9. Activism can be emotionally and mentally demanding, so remember to prioritize self-care and well-being. Take breaks when needed, practice self-compassion, and seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals when necessary. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup, so prioritize your own health and happiness as you work towards creating positive change in the world. 10. Finally, never underestimate the power of your voice, your actions, and your passion to create positive change in the world. Each individual has the potential to make a difference, and together, we can build a brighter, more equitable, and more sustainable future for all. Together, we stand as global citizens, united in our commitment to building a more just, equitable, and compassionate world for all. ~ Batseba Seifu  Ahmad Bakdad is a legal professional from Syria who advocates for the rights of young individuals and children, actively supporting initiatives for social justice, human rights, and the advancement of peace and equality. Over the last seven years, he has dedicated himself to collaborating with diverse civil society organizations, NGOs, INGOs, and UN agencies, including SOS Children's Villages, UNICEF, the Syrian Bar Association, and the United Nations Development Programme. His contributions have impacted humanitarian endeavors across Syria and the Middle East. Ahmad also holds active memberships in several international associations focused on youth, community development, and peacebuilding. During his fellowship, Ahmad will join an international organization in Europe, where he will contribute to their global work on conflict resolution and peacebuilding. His time at the organization will be dedicated to strengthening his skills and enhancing his knowledge in the areas of peacebuilding and conflict resolution. He aims to expand his network by engaging with international colleagues and learning from their experiences. Ahmad plans to leverage this experience and newfound knowledge to empower communities in Syria and internationally. He intends to transfer his expertise and use it to drive social change and social cohesion initiatives for peace and social integration. GCC recently had an opportunity to connect with Ahmad and learn more about his work, his goals, and how others can create positive change in the world. You started your career in the legal field. What created the shift from lawyer to activist? The shift from a legal career to activism in human and child rights stemmed from firsthand experiences within the legal field. Working closely with vulnerable populations promoted my desire for broader societal change, I transitioned from legal work to advocacy to address root causes and promote holistic solutions. Additionally, interactions with clients underscored the power of collective action, inspiring a belief in grassroots movements' transformative potential. This journey reflects a commitment to justice and the interplay between legal expertise and social activism. By leveraging legal knowledge, I aim to contribute to a more equitable world where the rights of all individuals, especially marginalized communities, are upheld. Tell us about the work you engage in now and why it matters so much to you. Currently, my work encompasses global voluntary engagements and memberships in impactful organizations that advocate for global development, peace building, and justice, such as Global Citizen Circle (GCC), Social Change Initiative (SCI) Global Rights Defenders (GRD), International Peace Bureau (IPB), MCW Young Leaders, and SOS Children's villages. These interactions facilitate collaboration with international entities, fostering a deeper understanding of global issues and enabling collective efforts towards positive change. For example, my engagement with GCC, has been particularly impactful. It allows me to contribute to meaningful discussions on human rights, social justice, and peace on a global scale. These involvements matter deeply to me as it offers a platform to amplify voices from diverse backgrounds, advocate for marginalized communities, and drive tangible progress towards a more inclusive and sustainable world. What can we, the general public, do to support this work? There are several ways the general public can support my work in advocating for human and child rights:
You were part of GCC's Youth Resilience Circle. How did this come about? My involvement with the Global Citizen Circle's Youth Resilience Circle was a transformative experience that unfolded organically. It marked my inaugural engagement with GCC, providing a profound introduction to a global community of young leaders dedicated to peace and freedom. Witnessing the passion and commitment of fellow youth activists from diverse backgrounds resonated deeply with me, reaffirming the universality of our shared struggles and aspirations. This initial interaction served as a catalyst, igniting a desire to play a more significant role within GCC's community. Motivated by the collective energy and resolve of my peers, I became actively involved, eager to both learn from and contribute to our collective efforts in promoting dialogue, understanding, and positive change on a global scale. Can you tell us about your Social Change Initiative (SCI) Fellowship and what you hope to achieve? Thanks to my involvement with the Global Citizen Circle (GCC), I was nominated for the Social Change Initiative (SCI) Fellowship. SCI's remarkable work in supporting youth leaders worldwide has been instrumental in fostering positive change across communities. The seamless integration between GCC and SCI has profoundly impacted both my personal and professional development, providing invaluable opportunities for learning and growth. As an active member of SCI, I am honored to be part of a network dedicated to advancing social justice and human rights. With the SCI Fellowship, I aspire to pursue international experiences that will enable me to gather global insights and best practices in my field. This fellowship generously supports my endeavor to engage with diverse perspectives and approaches, ultimately empowering me to contribute more effectively to the advancement of human and child rights on a global scale. Do you have a mentor or leader you look to for inspiration? I find inspiration and mentorship from various sources, particularly my colleagues in the field of peace building, human and child rights, whose dedication and passion continually motivate me to strive for positive change. Moreover, being part of global organizations like the Global Citizen Circle (GCC), Social Change Initiative (SCI), and Global Rights Defenders (GRD) exposes me to inspiring leaders and mentors whose tireless efforts inspire me to expand my horizons and deepen my commitment to advocacy. Each interaction and collaboration within these networks offer valuable insights and encouragement, fueling my drive to make a meaningful impact in the pursuit of justice and equality. You'll be joining GCC in Sierra Leone in October at a peace conference. What will your role be? While the exact details of my involvement are still unfolding, I am dedicated to contributing my skills, experiences, and perspectives towards fostering dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation at the conference. Together with GCC colleagues, I am eager to collaborate, innovate, and drive positive change that resonates both locally and globally to build a more peaceful and inclusive world. What advice do you have for young people throughout the world who have a desire to create positive change? For young people worldwide aspiring to create positive change, I advise starting by educating oneself about pressing social issues and understanding their root causes to develop informed opinions and strategies for change.
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