Event: A Night of Human Rights Films

What: In observation of Human Rights Day 2010, Fort Worth’s Human Relations Commission is screening three short documentaries that highlight actions individuals are taking to overcome the obstacles and abuses faced by those who repeatedly suffer from exploitation carried out with the help of government.

Fort Worth councilman Joel Burns, who recently made nationwide headlines for speaking at a council meeting about the abuse he suffered as a gay teen, will give remarks at an informal reception at 6:30 p.m. at Betsy and Steve Palko Hall, Amon G. Carter Lecture Hall on the TCU campus. The first film will begin at 7:30 p.m.

“Trevor” (1994) discusses the prejudices a young man suffered from at the hands of his anti-gay family and friends. “Crossing Arizona” (2005) showcases the human impact protectionist migration policies have on creating a vulnerable underclass in society. “12 Stones” (2009) looks at the inspiring story of illiterate women in a Nepal village who are overcoming poverty. Each short film demonstrates the cooperative aid individuals are providing to counter these problems.

There is no charge, but to secure a seat, send an RSVP to humanrelations@FortWorthGov.org angela.rush@fortworthgov.org.

Please note, I recognize it sounds odd that a monopoly government, an institution predicated on the usurpation of (inalienable) rights, would celebrate Human Rights Day, but it gives liberty-minded folks an opportunity to speak about the inherent rights violations of any number of government actions during a time when that topic is the focus of attention.

When: Reception at 6:30 p.m., with the first film screening at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Amon G. Carter Lecture Hall, 2800 South University Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76129