A little under two weeks ago I had the opportunity to see President Biden speak at the dedication for the Dodd Center for Human Rights here on UConn’s campus. The human rights and political science student in me was absolutely freaking out the moment I received the invitation.
All of campus shut down. Classes were canceled, streets were closed, and there was personnel EVERYWHERE. As someone who has never experienced security at this level, it was kind of surreal. But then again, it was the president.
The reason President Biden decided to pay Storrs a visit was to commemorate Chris and Thomas J Dodd, two former Connecticut Senators, for their work in the human rights field. During his remarks, President Biden spoke about how important it is to prioritize human rights in foreign policy. He made clear the role of the United States in defending dignity around the world. The end of his remarks was especially powerful as he said “nothing about our freedom is guaranteed. We have to work for it.”
“Nothing about our freedom is guaranteed. We have to work for it.”
President Joe Biden
The Dodd Center for Human Rights and the Human Rights Institute both foster incredible academic and research programs, of which I am so proud to be a part. In only two years, I have learned so much about human rights institutions, practices, and advocacy, and I am looking forward to seeing what the rest of my education will hold.
To President Biden, Chris Dodd, and all the other wonderful people that spoke at the dedication, thank you for this experience. It was a pleasure to have you – you are welcome anytime.