IDC
We empower advocates and non-profits dedicated to championing universal human rights, interfaith harmony, promoting social justice, and environmental protection.
Olivia Cantu Monette
Executive Director
International Defenders Council
I definitely didn't get here overnight though.
My journey into the heart of human rights advocacy has been one of relentless pursuit, guided by a deep commitment to justice and community empowerment. As the Executive Director of the International Defenders Council, I've channeled my passion for helping people stand up for their human rights to strengthening emerging nonprofits.
I started off like many of you did.
For many years I was a college protestor, door canvasser, campus volunteer, and I made thousands of calls and did letter writing for causes. I then went on to work on community and grassroots organzing, creating successful ambassador programs, as a nonprofit State Director, and that led to work as a nonprofit state Operations DIrector, until I became an Executive Director of a nonprofit.
During those years I also worked under contract for various nonprofits as an Advocacy Associate and spent the next ten years in and out of Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., lobbying for legislative changes or mobilizing communities for action.
The one connecting link being that each step has been fueled by a desire to create a more equitable and compassionate world.
Aligning with global movements and sustainable development goals, I now strive to ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are not only heard but also championed. This path hasn't been easy, but it has been incredibly fulfilling, knowing that each effort contributes to the larger fight for dignity and justice for all.
Here are a few legislative and grassroots movemements that the IDC Team has been at the forefront of since 2001:
The International Defenders Council (IDC) organized a congressional briefing for the North American Manipur Tribal Association (NAMTA) to address the ongoing human rights crisis in Manipur, India. The... ...more
Congressional Briefing
May 06, 2024•0 min read