Social media creates new tools for change

TORONTO, Feb. 24 /CNW/ - #tweet4rights: An Evening of Rights Media invites the local Twitter community to meet face to face to explore the incredible potential of social media to promote and raise human rights awareness. The February 26 "tweet up" event, a first for jhr, will empower participants to use social media tools to make a difference.

David Silverberg, Digital Journal editor and veteran slam poet will open the evening with an original piece on the importance of journalism. Then, jhr's Education Specialist, Carissa MacLennan, will follow with a presentation on the concept of "Rights Media" - the process of writing, collecting, editing, producing and distributing media that creates societal dialogue on human rights issues - and how it can be used in the exciting new field of social media. The Cryptic Canvas gallery, a hidden gem in downtown Toronto, will provide the backdrop for an educational and inspiring evening. Following the presentation, guests are welcome to mingle and enjoy complimentary snacks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

"The amazing thing about this '#tweet4rights' campaign is that it gives our supporters the chance to take the lead role in raising and spreading awareness of human rights that is so integral in mobilizing change," says Justine Yu, Social Media Coordinator at jhr. "It's about giving the people the power to make the lasting difference that we so desperately want to see."

jhr is a Toronto-based nonprofit organization that works internationally in close partnership with local media owners, editors, journalists, journalism professors and students to improve the overall media environment. jhr's mission is to make everyone in the world fully aware of their rights.

This event is open to the public but registration is required. To register, visit: http://tweet4rights.eventbrite.com/.

    What:       #tweet4rights: An Evening of Rights Media hosted
                by Journalists for Human Rights
    When:       February 26, 2010, 6pm to 10pm
    Where:      The Cryptic Canvas Gallery, 8 Waterloo Terrace (off Adelaide
                 Place)
    How Much:   Free! Limited tickets, sign up online:
                http://tweet4rights.eventbrite.com/

For further information: Media Contacts: Emily Agopsowicz, Event Coordinator, t: (416) 413-0240 ext. 202, e: emily@jhr.ca; Justine Yu, Social Media Coordinator, t: (416) 413-0240 ext. 207, e: justine@jhr.ca