To boost its call for justice, Human Rights First appointed attorney Joshua Colangelo-Bryan as Special Counsel. Announced on Thursday, the appointment highlights the organisation’s determination to tackle some of the most pressing human rights issues of our time.
Colangelo-Bryan, a seasoned human rights advocate, has a 20-year career. He is best known for representing Guantanamo Bay detainees and victims of global human rights abuses.
His expertise in international law and dedication to justice will significantly enhance Human Rights First’s legal and policy initiatives.
“Joshua has deep experience and a strong commitment to human rights,” said Michael Breen, President and CEO of Human Rights First. “His leadership will strengthen our ability to confront injustice and hold perpetrators accountable on the global stage.”
A Career Dedicated to Justice
Colangelo-Bryan’s career has been a relentless pursuit of justice. He seeks it for those caught in systemic abuse. As a partner at Dorsey & Whitney LLP, he gained fame for representing Guantanamo Bay detainees.
He advocated against their indefinite detention and the denial of due process. His work has shed light on the injustices of the global war on terror and has been lauded as a benchmark for human rights advocacy.
His collaboration with Human Rights First is not new. Over the years, Colangelo-Bryan has contributed to the organisation’s initiatives to combat torture and promote accountability for human rights violations. This formal appointment marks the culmination of years of shared efforts in defending the rule of law.
“I am deeply honoured to join Human Rights First,” Colangelo-Bryan said in a statement. “This organisation represents the ideals that have guided my career—justice, accountability, and the unyielding defence of human dignity.”
Meeting the Moment
The appointment comes as Human Rights First faces a rise in authoritarianism, displacement crises, and abuses. Colangelo-Bryan’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s response to these challenges, reinforcing its commitment to justice and the rule of law.
With headquarters in New York, Human Rights First has long been a leader in advocating for refugees, asylum seekers, and victims of persecution. Colangelo-Bryan’s addition is seen as a critical step in expanding the organisation’s influence and effectiveness in tackling complex human rights issues.
“Joshua’s expertise will undoubtedly help us navigate these turbulent times,” Breen added. “His voice and vision will be instrumental as we work to uphold human rights in an increasingly divided world.”
Challenges and Opportunities
While the addition of Colangelo-Bryan is widely celebrated, experts note that the challenges ahead are daunting. The global human rights landscape is troubled. Authoritarianism, geopolitical tensions, and mass displacement are rising.
Human Rights First will need to leverage Colangelo-Bryan’s experience to address these multifaceted issues effectively.
“Human Rights First’s decision to bring Joshua on board demonstrates their readiness to tackle complex global challenges,” said Lisa Davis, a professor of law specialising in human rights. “His appointment signals a bold step forward in the fight for justice and accountability.”
A Symbol of Hope
As Colangelo-Bryan steps into his new role, he embodies a symbol of hope for those whose voices are often silenced. His appointment supports Human Rights First’s mission to confront injustice. It aims to keep human dignity at the center of global discourse.
The world will undoubtedly watch as Colangelo-Bryan and Human Rights First collaborate to shape a future rooted in justice, equity, and accountability.
