Drawing on her journey from growing up under authoritarian rule in China to pursuing professional work in human rights, Yaqiu Wang offers candid insight into what it takes to build a career in human rights and global advocacy. This conversation will explore education pathways, early-career decisions, ethical challenges, and the realities of working in international human rights spaces — with practical guidance for students considering this path.
Open to UChicago students, faculty, OAAs, postdocs, and staff. UChicago IDs will be checked upon entry.
Lunch will be provided.
Yaqiu Wang is a Chinese human rights and democracy researcher and advocate whose work over the past 15 years has focused on freedom of expression, the protection of human rights defenders, women’s rights, and minority rights in China. Wang brings deep expertise and a prominent voice on Chinese repression, helping students understand the costs of restricted expression for autonomy and intellectual freedom. Wang is a Chicago Forum Fellow for Winter 2026. As a Forum Fellow, she will conduct independent research, deliver a public lecture, participate in Forum events, and meet with faculty and students.
- ThThe University of Chicago Forum for Free Inquiry and Expression