EQUAL HUMAN RIGHTS
Our Advocacy Projects
Equal Human Rights Organizations has been advocating for Human Rights and values since day one of its creation. Here are some of the advocacy work done in Texas, USA and beyond.
Asylum Seeker Advocacy
An asylum seeker identified as FG was detained at the El Valle Detention Center in Texas despite her asylum case having already been approved. She remained in custody for over 10 months, during which time her physical and emotional condition significantly deteriorated. FG had endured severe trauma during her journey to the United States, including sexual harassment and physical abuse, and while in detention she developed infections and received only minimal medical care. Her prolonged detention posed serious risks to her health and safety and raised urgent humanitarian concerns.
Equal Human Rights Organization, in coordination with human rights advocates, intervened to advocate on behalf of FG and other vulnerable women in similar circumstances. Throughout the advocacy process, all applicable rules, regulations, and U.S. refugee and asylum laws were respected and carefully followed. The organization worked within established legal and governmental frameworks, engaging appropriately with local and federal officials to request lawful and timely action. Their efforts emphasized both humanitarian obligations and the importance of upholding legal protections for approved asylum seekers, particularly women suffering from trauma.
As a result of this lawful and coordinated advocacy, FG was successfully released from detention and granted the opportunity to seek urgent medical and mental health care. This outcome underscores the vital role human rights organizations play in ensuring due process, accountability, and humane treatment within the immigration system. The release not only protected FG’s well-being but also demonstrated that respecting the rule of law and advocating for human dignity can coexist and lead to meaningful, life-saving outcomes.
If you know someone who would benefit from Equal Human Rights Organization's advocacy, please contact us here.
Payam Scholarship Program:Investing in Education, Innovation, and Human Rights
Through the Payam Scholarship Program, Equal Human Rights proudly continues its commitment to advancing educational access and opportunity for individuals from refugee and immigrant backgrounds. In 2025, EHR awarded nine scholarships of $1,000 each to first- and second-generation refugees and immigrants, including international students studying in the United States. All recipients were enrolled in STEM programs, reflecting EHR’s belief that education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is a powerful pathway to economic mobility, innovation, and social impact.
Building on this momentum, in 2026, EHR expanded its support to include both students and academic research. Three students received $500 scholarships, and one university professor was awarded $2,300 to support critical research in the field of Thermic Air Sensing Mechanisms. This research focuses on the design and development of a new sensor capable of detecting warm air parcels in the sky through a horizontal sensing view—advancing scientific understanding with potential applications in environmental monitoring and technology innovation. By supporting research alongside students, EHR reinforces the connection between education, discovery, and long-term societal benefit.
In addition to financial scholarships, EHR awarded two internship opportunities to emerging professionals in the fields of Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights research, providing hands-on experience at the intersection of technology, ethics, and social justice. These opportunities reflect EHR’s mission to foster unbiased, responsible research and to prepare the next generation of leaders to approach technology with a human-rights-centered mindset.
Donations to Equal Human Rights make these programs possible. Continued support allows EHR to sustain scholarships, internships, and research initiatives that empower youth, uplift underrepresented communities, and advance ethical innovation. Together, we are investing not only in education and technology—but in a future grounded in dignity, equity, and human rights. For past projects click here.
Learning Exchange Program
The Learning Exchange is an award-winning, global learning platform developed by Accenture and provided free of charge to Equal Human Rights (EHR) to expand access to education and workforce development worldwide. Delivered fully online and on demand, the platform equips learners with practical, job-ready skills to help them gain employment, change careers, and build long-term professional success. Open to participants across the globe, Learning Exchange offers credible certifications and high-quality content designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce.
Through this partnership, Equal Human Rights is able to offer the Learning Exchange program at no cost to communities who need it most, including opportunity youth, homeless youth, high school and college students, recent immigrants, unemployed adults, justice-involved individuals, women in shelters, and veterans. The platform features career-focused courses such as resume development, interview preparation, professional behavior, networking, career planning, ethics at work, and building a strong online professional presence—skills that directly support economic mobility and self-sufficiency.
Equal Human Rights is proud to share this successful and proven program as part of its commitment to uplifting individuals and strengthening communities through education and opportunity. By making Learning Exchange freely available, EHR and Accenture are removing barriers to skill development and empowering learners worldwide to take meaningful steps toward employment, stability, and dignity. This partnership reflects what is possible when corporate leadership and human rights advocacy come together to create lasting, global impact.
To utilize Learning Exchange Program for your needs contact us here.
World Refugee Day 2024 – Virtual Global Commemoration
World Refugee Day 2024 was celebrated virtually through an event hosted and organized by Equal Human Rights Organization, bringing together employees and allies from Accenture, Microsoft, and American Express in a shared commitment to refugee solidarity and inclusion.
The program centered on the lived experience of an Afghan refugee who shared his journey from Kabul to the United States following the Taliban takeover in 2021. Through personal testimony and a short video, he highlighted the profound challenges refugees face, including displacement, trauma, family separation, and the struggle to rebuild life in a new country, while emphasizing the critical role of inclusion in restoring dignity and hope.
The discussion underscored how communities, employers, and individuals can contribute to the well-being and future of refugees, from fostering inclusive workplaces to supporting access to education, employment, and mental health resources. Participants were also introduced to national refugee and resettlement organizations where they can donate time, skills, and funds to support newly arrived refugees and strengthen pathways to long-term stability.
The event reaffirmed the importance of collective action and allyship in advancing human rights and creating welcoming communities for refugees.
International Women’s Day 2024 – Global Celebration
International Women’s Day 2024 was celebrated globally through a virtual event hosted and organized by Equal Human Rights Organization, honoring women’s resilience, leadership, and collective power across cultures and communities. The event was formally acknowledged by the City of Houston, with an official proclamation issued in recognition of its impact and significance.
The program brought together advocates, health professionals, artists, and community leaders who addressed critical issues affecting women worldwide. Contributions included a moving poem by Pezhmun, a powerful discussion on gender apartheid in Iran and Afghanistan by Elika Eftekhari, and a healing-focused session, “Heal Your Heart, Heal Your Life,” by Zahra Heydari.
Women’s physical and community well-being were further highlighted through Women’s Health insights by Elisa Brown, community empowerment work presented by Lorely De Leon of AVANCE, and an overview of access to care through Health Insurance by Rosie Moshrefi.
The event underscored the importance of equity, access, and advocacy, while amplifying diverse voices working toward a more just and inclusive future for women everywhere.
On March 8th, 2024, Donya Ziraksari, Equal Human Right's founder and president was awarded as one of the most influential woman in Houston, recognized by City of Houston, State of Texas and Congresswoman Sheila Lee Jackson (God rest her soul).
2024 Nowruz & Ramadan Interfaith Celebration – Houston
In 2024, Nowruz and Ramadan were celebrated together through a meaningful interfaith gathering hosted by Equal Human Rights Organization in partnership with the Bahá’í Faith of Houston at the Houston Bahá’í Center. The event brought members of the Bahá’í and Muslim communities together to break fast, pray, and reflect on shared values of unity, compassion, and peace.
The evening featured collective prayers for world peace, conversations on spiritual renewal, and dialogue centered on mutual respect and understanding. This powerful celebration highlighted what unites these communities, love, humanity, and a shared commitment to the well-being of all people.
In recognition of the cultural and community significance of the event, the City of Houston issued an official proclamation honoring Nowruz Day 2024. The celebration was widely regarded as a success, strengthening interfaith relationships and demonstrating how unity across traditions can foster harmony and hope within the broader Houston community.
Human Rights Day 2023 – Houston
On December 10, 2023, Equal Human Rights Organization, in collaboration with the Bahá’í Faith of Houston, commemorated International Human Rights Day through a community gathering focused on justice, dignity, and equality for all.
In recognition of their leadership and commitment to advancing human rights, both organizations received Congressional Recognitions from Congressman Al Green. Additionally, the City of Houston issued an official proclamation, and City Council Member Abbie Kamin presented a proclamation honoring the significance of Human Rights Day and the impact of the event.
The celebration brought together diverse community members in a shared call for unity, advocacy, and the protection of fundamental human rights.
Mahsa Amini Day in Houston September 2023
The one-year anniversary of Mahsa Amini was commemorated in person in Houston through a powerful community-led event honoring women, human rights, and global solidarity. The gathering brought together over 200 attendees and received local news coverage, reflecting the significance of Mahsa Amini’s legacy and the ongoing fight for women’s rights. In 2023, Harris County Precinct 4, under Commissioner Lesley Briones, officially recognized Human Rights Day in Iran in observance of Mahsa Amini’s death anniversary, further elevating the importance of the movement at the county level.
The event featured the HPD VICE Unit, which spoke about its efforts to combat human trafficking, alongside a survivor who bravely shared her lived experience. Several refugee resettlement organizations and women’s violence support agencies also participated, highlighting resources, advocacy efforts, and pathways to safety and empowerment for women.
During the event, Congressman Al Green awarded Donya Ziraksari, Founder and President of Equal Human Rights Organization, in recognition of her dedication and commitment to fighting domestic and sexual violence, as well as providing awareness through her “Woman, Life, Freedom” program to communities across the Greater Houston Area. Mahsa Day was also formally recognized by the City of Houston and City Council Members for its impact and community leadership. The Houston Police Department was publicly thanked for its continued support and advocacy for women’s safety.
Additionally, HPD representatives, human rights activists, and community leaders received recognitions from the Iranian community in Houston and Equal Human Rights Organization, honoring their commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of women and vulnerable populations.
June 20th 2023 World Refugee Day in Houston
World Refugee Day was celebrated in person in Houston with a powerful and heartfelt gathering honoring the resilience, courage, and contributions of refugees. The event featured a panel of first- and second-generation refugees who shared personal stories about their home countries, the circumstances that forced them to flee, and their journeys toward rebuilding their lives in the United States.
Local refugee resettlement organizations highlighted their work supporting refugees in Houston, sharing impactful stories of service, advocacy, and community integration. The event was attended by Interfaith Ministries, Emgage, the Bahá’í Faith of Houston, Daya, and Houston Welcomes Refugees, and was covered by local media.
In recognition of this collective effort and its impact, the Refugee Alliance was honored with a Congressional Recognition presented by Congressman Al Green, acknowledging the organization’s leadership and commitment to uplifting refugee voices and advancing inclusion.
Refugee Panelists
Lauren – Cuba
Lauren is a political refugee from Cuba who fled after participating in anti-government protests in July 2021. She was detained and threatened with a 15-year prison sentence, prompting her escape to the U.S., where she now lives in Houston while continuing to advocate for imprisoned activists in Cuba.
Ivan Sanchez – Colombia
Ivan is a second-generation refugee whose family fled Colombia after receiving death threats due to his mother’s legal work. Raised in the U.S. after displacement and personal loss, he now serves as a community leader in Houston, working to empower young professionals and advocate for civic engagement.
Bushra Hamid – Palestine/Syria
Bushra is the granddaughter of Palestinian Syrian refugees and a native Houstonian. Her family’s displacement inspired her lifelong advocacy for human rights, refugee justice, and community leadership within faith-based and civic spaces.
Zed Minale – Ethiopia
Zed is a political refugee from Ethiopia who was forced to flee following the overthrow of the Ethiopian monarchy and ensuing conflict. Her journey took her across multiple countries before settling in the U.S., where she has dedicated decades to supporting refugee communities and now serves as a co-director at the Refugee Leadership Academy.