06/25/2026
TASSC Advocacy Days Begin: Survivors Bringing Their Voices to Congress
Today and tomorrow, torture survivors, human rights advocates, supporters, interns, and staff from TASSC International are coming together on Capitol Hill for our annual Advocacy Days as part of June Survivors Week and the observance of the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.
This year, more than 35 meetings have been organized with members of Congress and their staff in both the House and Senate. Survivors and advocates representing 11 countries—including Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Cameroon, Somalia, Uganda, Afghanistan, Ghana, Togo, Burkina Faso, and Kenya—are sharing their experiences and advocating for policies that protect human rights and support survivors.
Founded by Sister Dianna Ortiz, herself a survivor of torture, TASSC was built on the belief that survivors should not only receive support but also have the opportunity to become advocates for justice and change. Advocacy Days reflect that vision by ensuring that survivors lead the conversation.
Our delegations include survivors, human rights defenders, women's rights advocates, and LGBTQ+ advocates who bring firsthand experiences to policymakers. Their stories highlight the ongoing realities of torture, persecution, displacement, and the challenges faced by survivors rebuilding their lives.
Throughout these meetings, survivors are speaking directly with congressional offices about issues affecting their communities, including accountability for human rights abuses, protection of refugees and asylum seekers, support for survivors of torture, and the importance of U.S. leadership in advancing human rights globally.
As we commemorate June 26, the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, we are reminded that survivors are not only witnesses to injustice—they are leaders, advocates, and agents of change.
TASSC remains committed to ensuring that survivors' voices are heard where decisions are made. Their courage, resilience, and leadership continue to inspire our work and strengthen our mission to end torture and support survivors worldwide.
ASSC Board Members Amal Nour Elhuda and Adlan Abdelaziz joined survivors and advocates on Capitol Hill during TASSC Advocacy Days as part of June Survivors Week.
Their participation reflects TASSC’s commitment to survivor leadership and strong board engagement in advancing human rights, supporting survivors of torture, and elevating the voices of affected communities.
Amal participated in meetings with congressional offices, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, while Adlan joined the Sudan delegation in advocating for civilian protection, humanitarian assistance, accountability, and support for those impacted by the ongoing crisis in Sudan.
We are grateful for the leadership of our board members who stand alongside survivors and help bring their voices directly to policymakers.
