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Human Rights Organizations in Virginia

Discover Human Rights Organizations in Virginia dedicated to supporting and empowering your community. Our directory features organizations committed to addressing the unique needs and challenges of the community through advocacy, programs, and services.
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International Foundation for Women's Empowerment
International Foundation for Women's Empowerment
Since its establishment in March 2019, the International Foundation for Women's Empowerment has been transforming lives in Fairfax, Virginia and across the globe. This non-partisan non-profit organization recognizes that women represent approximately half of the world's population, and believes that empowering women strengthens communities and society as a whole. IFWE welcomes both women seeking empowerment and men committed to supporting women's advancement, creating an inclusive movement for positive change. The foundation operates through a network of dedicated volunteers and professionals who serve on Leadership Committees for Women's Empowerment, Executive Teams, and Support Committees established in countries worldwide. IFWE's approach is rooted in the belief that women face unique challenges requiring tailored support and community-driven solutions. The organization invites participation in multiple ways: women can attend workshops to develop skills and confidence, volunteer to lead workshops empowering others, help establish chapters in their communities, join leadership committees, assist with coaching using Harvard's evidence-based pedagogy, partner with the organization, or contribute financially to the cause. Operating from Fairfax, VA as a subsidiary of the American Foundation for Educational Excellence, IFWE has built partnerships with UN agencies and international NGOs to amplify its mission. The foundation emphasizes that meaningful change happens through collective action, offering opportunities for women and men to become part of a global movement dedicated to helping women thrive personally and professionally, regardless of background or circumstance.

Fairfax, VA

Equality Virginia
Equality Virginia
Founded in 1989 as Virginians for Justice, Equality Virginia has grown into Richmond, VA's leading advocacy organization committed to building a fully inclusive Commonwealth where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive. This 501(c)(3) organization recognizes that LGBTQ Virginians—from youth to seniors—continue to experience violence, discrimination, and systemic disparities, particularly transgender people and people of color, and works tirelessly to address these inequities. At its heart, Equality Virginia is driven by a mission to advocate and organize across Virginia, creating a future where all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and broader spectrum LGBTQIA+ people flourish. The organization believes in the transformative power of community collaboration and the potential of LGBTQIA+ individuals to create meaningful change. Rather than working in isolation, Equality Virginia partners with communities, organizations, and local advocates throughout the Commonwealth to build collective strength. The organization's approach is rooted in six core values that reflect its commitment to the communities it serves: Community, which builds interconnectedness and belonging; Equity, which addresses the unique needs of marginalized groups; Perseverance, which sustains long-term change efforts; Impact, which creates measurable improvements in people's lives; Empowerment, which amplifies LGBTQIA+ voices and builds leadership; and Integrity, which ensures transparency and accountability. By centering the experiences and voices of LGBTQIA+ Virginians, particularly those in underrepresented communities, Equality Virginia continues its legacy of creating a Richmond and Virginia where all people have the safety and dignity to thrive.

Richmond, VA

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Side by Side
Side by Side
Side by Side, based in Richmond, Virginia, is a community-driven organization with over three decades of dedicated service to LGBTQ+ youth. Founded in 1991 as the Richmond Organization for Sexual Minority Youth (ROSMY) and rebranded in 2016, Side by Side has established itself as a national leader in youth-centered advocacy and support. The organization is built on four core strategic priorities: a public commitment to Black LGBTQ+ youth flourishing, creating vibrant and diverse communities through partnership and mutual support, maintaining a youth-centered approach to all decision-making, and serving as a powerful voice for LGBTQ+ community education and progress. What distinguishes Side by Side is its deep commitment to intersectionality and racial equity, recognizing the complete humanity of every young person it serves while actively working to dismantle systems of racial inequity. The organization celebrates a rich history of firsts—from offering the first college scholarship for LGBTQ+ youth in 1996 to hosting groundbreaking alternative proms and launching innovative programs like its Host Home initiative for homeless young adults. Side by Side's impact extends throughout Virginia's LGBTQ+ community, with support groups spanning from Richmond to Charlottesville and training programs reaching schools and organizations across the Commonwealth. By listening to youth voices, creating affirming spaces, and building long-term relationships within Black communities, Side by Side continues its tradition of supporting LGBTQ+ youth to define themselves and flourish in a more equitable future.

Richmond, VA

Diversity Richmond
Diversity Richmond
Diversity Richmond stands as a catalyst, voice, place, and resource dedicated to enriching the LGBTQ+ community of Greater Richmond, VA. Rooted in 15 years of community advocacy, this nonprofit organization emerged from the 2015 merger of two established Richmond institutions, creating a permanent and sustainable structure committed to serving LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and allies. The organization's core mission centers on championing diversity while actively advancing equity and inclusion throughout the region. Diversity Richmond prioritizes intentional support for those disproportionately impacted within the LGBTQ+ community, including people of color, transgender individuals, and those identifying as non-binary or gender non-conforming. Operating from their Richmond location, the organization builds community through meaningful relationships with volunteers, partner nonprofits, and local supporters who share a vision of a vibrant, inclusive community where LGBTQ+ citizens are treated with respect and dignity. Beyond programming and events, Diversity Richmond has cultivated a safe, welcoming environment rooted in values of equity, inclusion, and human dignity. The organization's commitment extends to creating affirming experiences that celebrate the unique gifts of LGBTQ+ individuals while holding systems accountable in promoting full civil rights for all Virginians. Through community donations, member programs, and collaborative partnerships, Diversity Richmond continues strengthening Greater Richmond as a place where diversity is not just acknowledged but genuinely celebrated.

Richmond, VA

PFLAG Hampton Roads
PFLAG Hampton Roads
Since 1972, PFLAG has united lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual individuals with their families, friends, and allies in a mission of support, education, and advocacy. PFLAG Hampton Roads carries forward this legacy in Norfolk, VA, serving as a welcoming community hub where people from all backgrounds can connect authentically. The organization believes that diversity should be celebrated and that all people deserve to be respected, valued, and affirmed regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. PFLAG Hampton Roads welcomes anyone who is open-minded and supportive, recognizing that many attendees are LGBTQ+ community members themselves while others are parents, family members, and allies seeking understanding and connection. The organization is deeply committed to meeting people where they are—whether someone is just coming out to loved ones or has been on their journey for years—and maintaining that supportive relationship throughout their lifetime. Through grassroots engagement, meaningful events, and scholarship opportunities, PFLAG Hampton Roads works to create a world where hearts and minds respect and affirm LGBTQ+ people. As part of a vast national network spanning all 50 states, the organization brings both local community care and national resources to support equality and dignity in the Norfolk area.

Norfolk, VA

PFLAG Floyd
PFLAG Floyd
In Floyd, VA, PFLAG Floyd represents a vital community resource grounded in the belief that true respect emerges from genuine human connection. As a small rural chapter of the nation's first and largest organization for LGBTQ+ people and their families, PFLAG Floyd embodies a mission of celebrating diversity while affirming the dignity of every person. The organization was founded on the principle that families, friends, and allies have a powerful role to play in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, and this commitment remains at the heart of everything PFLAG Floyd does. The chapter prioritizes creating a supportive, loving environment where members of the Floyd community—including those of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities—can find acceptance and understanding. PFLAG Floyd recognizes that rural communities often face unique challenges in accessing LGBTQ+ resources and support, and the organization works intentionally to bridge that gap. By providing helplines, support group meetings, educational resources, and community engagement opportunities, PFLAG Floyd demonstrates that small towns can be places of profound inclusion and care. The organization's commitment to safety, acceptance, and education reflects a vision where all people in Floyd, Virginia feel valued and respected for who they are. PFLAG Floyd welcomes everyone—LGBTQ+ individuals, family members, friends, and allies—to join in building a community rooted in love and authentic connection.

Floyd, VA

PFLAG Greater Charlottesville
PFLAG Greater Charlottesville
Since its founding in October 2010, PFLAG Greater Charlottesville has served as a vital community resource for parents, families, friends, and allies united with LGBTQIA loved ones in Charlottesville, Virginia. Though formally established over a decade ago, the chapter's board members have been publicly supporting and advocating for the LGBTQ community for decades, bringing deep-rooted commitment and authentic relationships to their work. PFLAG Greater Charlottesville operates as a chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which traces its origins to 1972 when a mother's simple act of support for her gay son sparked a movement that has grown to encompass over 350 chapters and 200,000 supporters across the country. The organization is built on the belief that families and allies standing together with LGBTQIA individuals create meaningful change in their communities. In Charlottesville, this manifests through monthly gatherings that provide both emotional support and educational opportunities, creating safe spaces where people can connect, learn, and grow together. The chapter's members volunteer in advocacy and outreach efforts, working to advance equality and end discrimination while promoting the health and well-being of the entire LGBTQ community. By combining personal connection with organized activism, PFLAG Greater Charlottesville demonstrates how communities united around shared values can create lasting social progress and genuine inclusion for all.

Charlottesville, VA

Black Women of Central Virginia
Black Women of Central Virginia
Founded by a dedicated group of mothers, daughters, sisters, and aunts, Black Women of Central Virginia emerged from a shared commitment to uplift and support Black women and girls in the Charlottesville community. Driven by a strong sense of social responsibility, the organization's members recognized the need for mentorship, education, and meaningful support systems that would help young women claim their rightful place in society. The vision guiding Black Women of Central Virginia is transformative: a world where socioeconomic inequity no longer exists for Black women and girls. To realize this vision, the organization advocates fiercely on behalf of its community through leadership development and gender equity initiatives spanning health, education, and economic empowerment. At its core, Black Women of Central Virginia embodies values of racial and social justice, integrity, accountability, and inclusion. The organization believes that building sustainable self-sufficiency requires comprehensive support—not just in economic matters, but in health outcomes and educational opportunities. Members and supporters of Black Women of Central Virginia work collaboratively to create meaningful change, whether through direct mentorship relationships, community events, or partnership with local organizations. The organization's commitment extends beyond Charlottesville to serve surrounding counties, recognizing that the work of uplifting Black women and girls is a collective responsibility. By joining or supporting Black Women of Central Virginia, individuals contribute to a movement rooted in respect, equity, and genuine community care.

Charlottesville, VA

US-Ukraine Foundation
US-Ukraine Foundation
Since its founding in 1991, the US-Ukraine Foundation has served as the first permanent American presence supporting Ukraine's transition to democracy and prosperity. Based in Falls Church, VA, this nonprofit organization maintains deep roots in Ukrainian communities through direct partnerships and on-the-ground operations in Kyiv, enabling authentic understanding of local needs and challenges. USUF's mission centers on empowering the Ukrainian people in their pursuit of freedom, democratic governance, free market development, and fundamental human rights through collaborative programs that prioritize civil society leadership. The Foundation's approach reflects decades of relationship-building with Ukrainian officials, civil society leaders, and grassroots organizations, creating a trusted network that facilitates meaningful exchange and mutual understanding between American and Ukrainian communities. Following Russia's 2022 invasion, USUF rapidly expanded humanitarian capabilities while maintaining its commitment to long-term democratic development, demonstrating organizational flexibility and genuine dedication to Ukraine's resilience. The organization's work encompasses diverse initiatives—from training local officials on democratic governance and strategic planning to preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage and supporting emerging leaders through educational exchanges. With sponsors and partners spanning the U.S., Ukraine, and worldwide, USUF operates as a collaborative platform where individuals and organizations unite around shared values of freedom and democratic progress. The Foundation's 30-year track record of sustained engagement, combined with its innovative programming and extensive partner network, positions it as a bridge between American supporters and Ukrainian communities seeking to build a strong, prosperous future rooted in democratic principles and human dignity.

Falls Church, VA

Latest Businesses/Organizations

International Foundation for Women's Empowerment
International Foundation for Women's Empowerment
Since its establishment in March 2019, the International Foundation for Women's Empowerment has been transforming lives in Fairfax, Virginia and across the globe. This non-partisan non-profit organization recognizes that women represent approximately half of the world's population, and believes that empowering women strengthens communities and society as a whole. IFWE welcomes both women seeking empowerment and men committed to supporting women's advancement, creating an inclusive movement for positive change. The foundation operates through a network of dedicated volunteers and professionals who serve on Leadership Committees for Women's Empowerment, Executive Teams, and Support Committees established in countries worldwide. IFWE's approach is rooted in the belief that women face unique challenges requiring tailored support and community-driven solutions. The organization invites participation in multiple ways: women can attend workshops to develop skills and confidence, volunteer to lead workshops empowering others, help establish chapters in their communities, join leadership committees, assist with coaching using Harvard's evidence-based pedagogy, partner with the organization, or contribute financially to the cause. Operating from Fairfax, VA as a subsidiary of the American Foundation for Educational Excellence, IFWE has built partnerships with UN agencies and international NGOs to amplify its mission. The foundation emphasizes that meaningful change happens through collective action, offering opportunities for women and men to become part of a global movement dedicated to helping women thrive personally and professionally, regardless of background or circumstance.

Fairfax, VA

Equality Virginia
Equality Virginia
Founded in 1989 as Virginians for Justice, Equality Virginia has grown into Richmond, VA's leading advocacy organization committed to building a fully inclusive Commonwealth where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive. This 501(c)(3) organization recognizes that LGBTQ Virginians—from youth to seniors—continue to experience violence, discrimination, and systemic disparities, particularly transgender people and people of color, and works tirelessly to address these inequities. At its heart, Equality Virginia is driven by a mission to advocate and organize across Virginia, creating a future where all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and broader spectrum LGBTQIA+ people flourish. The organization believes in the transformative power of community collaboration and the potential of LGBTQIA+ individuals to create meaningful change. Rather than working in isolation, Equality Virginia partners with communities, organizations, and local advocates throughout the Commonwealth to build collective strength. The organization's approach is rooted in six core values that reflect its commitment to the communities it serves: Community, which builds interconnectedness and belonging; Equity, which addresses the unique needs of marginalized groups; Perseverance, which sustains long-term change efforts; Impact, which creates measurable improvements in people's lives; Empowerment, which amplifies LGBTQIA+ voices and builds leadership; and Integrity, which ensures transparency and accountability. By centering the experiences and voices of LGBTQIA+ Virginians, particularly those in underrepresented communities, Equality Virginia continues its legacy of creating a Richmond and Virginia where all people have the safety and dignity to thrive.

Richmond, VA

Side by Side
Side by Side
Side by Side, based in Richmond, Virginia, is a community-driven organization with over three decades of dedicated service to LGBTQ+ youth. Founded in 1991 as the Richmond Organization for Sexual Minority Youth (ROSMY) and rebranded in 2016, Side by Side has established itself as a national leader in youth-centered advocacy and support. The organization is built on four core strategic priorities: a public commitment to Black LGBTQ+ youth flourishing, creating vibrant and diverse communities through partnership and mutual support, maintaining a youth-centered approach to all decision-making, and serving as a powerful voice for LGBTQ+ community education and progress. What distinguishes Side by Side is its deep commitment to intersectionality and racial equity, recognizing the complete humanity of every young person it serves while actively working to dismantle systems of racial inequity. The organization celebrates a rich history of firsts—from offering the first college scholarship for LGBTQ+ youth in 1996 to hosting groundbreaking alternative proms and launching innovative programs like its Host Home initiative for homeless young adults. Side by Side's impact extends throughout Virginia's LGBTQ+ community, with support groups spanning from Richmond to Charlottesville and training programs reaching schools and organizations across the Commonwealth. By listening to youth voices, creating affirming spaces, and building long-term relationships within Black communities, Side by Side continues its tradition of supporting LGBTQ+ youth to define themselves and flourish in a more equitable future.

Richmond, VA

Layered Blue Ridge Mountain ridge-lines rising above a valley of low clouds, with a winding mountain road and evergreen forest in the foreground, Virginia.
Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains rise above the Shenandoah Valley along the spine of the Appalachians, their layered ridgelines traced by Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
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