Human Rights Organizations in Boston, MA

Founded in 1984 by a small group of visionary Asian American lawyers, the Asian American Lawyers Association of Massachusetts (AALAM) has grown into a thriving community of over 380 legal professionals based in Boston, MA. What began as a grassroots initiative has evolved into a cornerstone organization serving the Asian American legal community and advancing justice throughout Massachusetts and New England. AALAM's mission extends beyond professional networking—the organization is fundamentally committed to improving and facilitating the administration of law and justice while creating meaningful connections among attorneys who share common values and experiences. The association recognizes that diversity strengthens the legal profession and actively works to support Asian American lawyers at every career stage, from law students beginning their legal education to judges and senior practitioners shaping the profession. The organization's impact is evident in its recognition and partnerships. In 2015, AALAM and fellow affinity bar associations received the 6th Annual Beacon Award for Diversity and Inclusion from the Boston Bar Association, acknowledging their impressive contributions to Boston's legal community. AALAM's commitment to community service is further demonstrated through its sponsorship of the Harry H. Dow Memorial Legal Assistance Fund, which has provided scholarships and legal assistance since 1985. By fostering camaraderie, mentorship, and cross-cultural support among diverse legal professionals, AALAM continues its decades-long tradition of building an inclusive community where Asian American lawyers can thrive professionally while contributing meaningfully to society.

Founded in 1996 in Greater Boston, MA as a small volunteer-run initiative, Keshet has grown into a national movement for LGBTQ Jewish equality and inclusion. The organization envisions a world where all LGBTQ Jews and their families experience full equality, justice, and dignity within Jewish life. Keshet creates meaningful spaces where queer Jewish youth feel genuinely seen and valued, while simultaneously strengthening Jewish communities through education and cultural transformation. What began as a response to the near-invisibility of LGBTQ Jews in American Jewish institutions has evolved into a comprehensive national organization with a proven track record of systemic change. Keshet's work spans synagogues, schools, youth organizations, camps, and social-service agencies, reflecting a deep commitment to meeting Jewish communities where they are. The organization's approach combines direct youth leadership development with institutional capacity-building, ensuring that LGBTQ inclusion becomes embedded in Jewish communal DNA. Operating from its headquarters in Boston while maintaining a national presence, Keshet continues advancing LGBTQ rights nationwide while maintaining its roots in the Greater Boston Jewish community that gave it birth.

Rooted in Boston's LGBTQIA+ community since 1985, the Bisexual Resource Center began as the East Coast Bisexual Network and incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in 1989, becoming a pioneering force in bi+ visibility and advocacy. The organization's mission centers on connecting the bi+ community and helping members thrive through resources, support, and celebration, envisioning an empowered, visible, and inclusive global community for bisexual people. Operating entirely through dedicated volunteer board members who contribute 10-40 hours monthly, the Boston-based center has built lasting community connections through affiliated networks like the Boston Bisexual Women's Network—founded in 1983 and approaching 30 years of service—which publishes the internationally-read Bi Women Quarterly newsletter. The Bisexual Resource Center's legacy includes publishing the Bisexual Resource Guide from 1990-2002, which connected organizations and individuals across the globe from Argentina to Zambia. Today, the organization continues raising awareness and building bridges within LGBT and ally communities while fostering bi-supportive social and political spaces. With roots deep in Boston and reach extending nationwide and internationally, the center remains committed to supporting the diverse, intersectional community of bi+ individuals while celebrating their integral role within the broader LGBTQIA+ ecosystem.