RELS:4930:0IND
Independent Study
Internship: Rights & Remedial Justice
Arranged Time Arranged Location
Instructor: Prof. Souaiaia
The Human Rights in Context Internship
This for-credit internship offers students a unique opportunity to explore both the theory and practice of human rights through academic research and real-world engagement. Students will gain insights into how rights are conceptualized, challenged, and advanced within communities and institutions.
Two Paths, One Mission: Learning Through Experience and Research
Conceptual Learning Track
In this track, students apply the principles of systems thinking to academic research on human rights. They will examine historical and contemporary events, key ideas, and the institutions that shape human rights frameworks. Potential outcomes of this work include:
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- Published research notes
- Teaching modules
- Contributions to ongoing academic projects
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This track is ideal for students passionate about critical inquiry, analysis, and advocacy through scholarship.
Experiential Learning Track
This track places students with organizations actively engaged in human rights work. These civil society institutions address a range of pressing issues, including poverty, education, public health, migration, environmental justice, incarceration, torture, abuse of power, and governance.
Depending on their interests, students will be matched with NGOs working to mitigate harm and advocate for justice in communities affected by systemic abuse and restricted access to basic resources.
Customize Your Experience
Internship credit is variable depending on semester hours. Students can:
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- Choose one track (Conceptual or Experiential)
- Combine both tracks within a single semester
- Split the experience across two semesters for a deeper, more flexible immersion
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Why Context Matters
Human rights are best understood not only as abstract principles but also as lived realities. This internship bridges academic inquiry with real-world experience to illuminate that connection.
Students will receive mentorship to develop a project tailored to their future goals—whether that’s pursuing graduate or professional study, preparing for a career as a lawyer, health professional, or NGO leader, or becoming an engaged and informed member of their community.
Local Partners for Experiential Learning
Nisaa African Family Services
Nisaa is a non-profit that aims to end domestic violence and sexual assault in African immigrant and refugee communities by promoting social, economic, and political self-determination of all women.
Inside Out Reentry Community
Supports individuals returning from incarceration in Iowa, helping them reintegrate and thrive.
Mission: Promote healing, restore relationships, and support success in the community.
insideoutreentry.com
Open Heartland
Empowers immigrant families through access to resources, community connections, and cultural celebration.
openheartland.org
IC Mutual Aid
A grassroots group meeting urgent survival needs neglected by systems of power. Advocates for justice, community care, and liberation.
icmutualaid.org
IC Compassion
A faith-based nonprofit supporting culturally diverse communities through legal services, mentorship, and partnerships.
iccompassion.org
Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice (Iowa MMJ)
Statewide immigration advocacy and legal services led by immigrant voices.
iowammj.org
Shelter House
Provides shelter, supportive housing, employment services, and mental health recovery for individuals experiencing homelessness.
shelterhouseiowa.org
Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity
Monsoon serves victims/survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking in Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities in Iowa. Monsoon’s mission is to end all forms of gender-based violence and build healthy communities through transformative justice and social change.
HACAP
A regional action agency offering resources to empower families facing the challenges of poverty.
hacap.org
Iowa Community Action Association (ICAA)
Advocates for Iowans facing economic hardship by unifying and supporting Community Action Agencies.
iowacommunityaction.org
Solidarity Microfinance
Supports women and underserved communities through small business loans and savings initiatives.
solidaritymicrofinance.org
CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank
Provides crisis support, food assistance, and resources to individuals in emotional or financial crisis.
builtbycommunity.org
Field to Family
Field to Family works to create a region where people eat with the seasons, where farmers make a living, and our ecosystem is diverse, abundant, and healthy.
Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition
IHRC works to improve health equity in Iowa communities through mobile outreach, education, and advocacy.
iowaharmreductioncoalition.org
The U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants
USCRI (through local chapters) helps refugees successfully adapt to life in the United States by defending human rights, promoting self-sufficiency, and forging community partnerships.
NOTE to NGOs:
NGOs working on human rights issues, based in Iowa or with a regional office in the state, may request to be added to the list by submitting their basic information through the Contact Us online form.