Exclusive GCIV member’s only reception with an International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awardee.
The U.S. Secretary of State’s annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards recognizes extraordinary women from around the world for demonstrating exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment, often at great personal risk and sacrifice. Individuals are nominated by U.S. Embassies abroad and awardees participate in a U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). Awardees will meet both the U.S. Secretary of State and the First Lady, then visit other communities in the U.S., like Atlanta, Georgia, to connect with their professional American counterparts.
One of the many benefits of GCIV membership is the opportunity to connect with emerging world leaders traveling to our state. Please take advantage of this unique experience and join us in demonstrating Atlanta’s famous southern hospitality!
GCIV is honored to host Bakhytzhan Toregozhina (ba-hit-ZHAN to-re-GO-zhi-na), a civil society activist from Kazakhstan.
Toregozhina has campaigned for the protection of fundamental human rights in Kazakhstan for nearly 25 years. Since January 2022, she has been the head of “Qantar 2022” a coalition of civil society organizations working to assist victims and document human rights violations associated with the widespread unrest that occurred in Kazakhstan last January.
Throughout her career, Toregozhina has been a leading voice representing victims of torture, abuse and politicized repression. She defended people persecuted for the peaceful expression of their beliefs and successfully campaigned for the release of many political prisoners. As a result of her work, she repeatedly faces threats and harassment.
Her decades-long commitment to this arduous work stands as testament to the vital role human rights defenders can play in holding governments accountable and encouraging respect for basic rights and freedoms. She continues these efforts today through Qantar 2022 as well as her public foundation “Ar.Rukh.Khak” (Dignity.Spirit.Truth).
The reception will be at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Light hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
This is a free event, but you must be a current GCIV member and RSVP to attend.
Space is limited. RSVPs are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Not a member or unsure about your membership status? Please contact Emily Shaw at emily@gciv.org or 404-832-5560 to RSVP and to join or to renew an expired membership. We will register you for the member’s only reception at that time.