Union County Review

Kean University will host its 17th annual Human Rights Conference on March 21, focusing on the impact of Generation Z in driving social change. The conference, titled "We Are the Future: How Gen Z is Changing the World," will feature David Hogg and Tiana Day as keynote speakers.

David Hogg, a co-founder of March for Our Lives and survivor of the Parkland school shooting, will share the keynote role with Tiana Day, founder of Youth Advocates for Change. The event will take place at Wilkins Theatre on Kean's Union campus starting at 9 a.m., with free admission requiring prior registration.

"As an anchor institution committed to supporting and uplifting the community, Kean is committed to advocating for human rights, and we are honored to host this milestone 17th annual Human Rights Conference," said President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. He emphasized that Gen Z leaders are creating real change by addressing longstanding social challenges.

The conference aims to explore how young people view human rights issues today. Felice Vazquez from Kean University highlighted that attendees would gain insights into Gen Z's modern approach to human rights and social justice.

“Youth have always been at the forefront of human rights issues. But activism is different today,” said Jessica Barzilay from Kean University. She noted that social media has provided Gen Z with a global perspective and reach.

Adara Goldberg from Kean University pointed out that Gen Z leaders can quickly engage mass audiences through digital platforms. “Leading social change and advocating for human rights takes passion, an entrepreneurial spirit and iron-clad determination,” she added.

Hogg became an activist after surviving one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. His organization drew significant attention with marches worldwide demanding safer schools.

Tiana Day organized her first protest following George Floyd's death at age 17. Now leading Youth Advocates for Change, she focuses on amplifying youth voices through various initiatives. Day has received multiple awards recognizing her efforts in advocacy.

Following their speeches, Hogg and Day will participate in a fireside chat where attendees can ask questions. The conference will also present several awards including the Student Human Rights Activist Award.

Attendees are encouraged to visit an exhibition by Gen Z artist Weiling Pan titled "Journeys of Growth" after the program concludes. This exhibition runs until May 20, 2025.

The event welcomes participation from both the Kean community and high school groups across New Jersey.