Idaho's Wassmuth Center celebrates 30 years of human rights education

June 13, 2026 - 10:08

The Wassmuth Center for Human Rights in downtown Boise is preparing to celebrate three decades of work. The milestone anniversary will be marked with a public event at the end of June, designed to be open to all ages. The center has long served as a key institution in Idaho for teaching about tolerance, civil rights, and the legacy of the Holocaust.

Founded in 1994, the center was originally named after Bill Wassmuth, a priest who stood up against neo-Nazi activity in northern Idaho during the 1980s. Over the years, the organization has expanded its mission beyond its initial focus. It now runs educational programs for students and teachers, hosts traveling exhibits, and manages the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, a popular outdoor space in Boise that features quotes from human rights leaders from around the world.

The upcoming celebration will include activities for families, live music, and remarks from community leaders. Organizers hope the event will not only look back at past achievements but also energize a new generation to continue the work. They emphasize that the need for human rights education remains urgent, especially as communities face new challenges around division and misinformation. The anniversary event is free and open to the public, with details available through the center's regular communications.