<p> There are tremendous humanitarian and human rights problems throughout the world today. While technology is generally seen as a force for good, plenty of closed societies have used technology to clamp down on their citizens and stifle human rights. Already the fight over Internet freedom and data security has cost the lives or liberties of dissidents in countries like Iran, China, Vietnam, and Russia. Citizens have been sentenced to long jail terms and hard labor for a critical blog posting, or accessing foreign news sites. Creative technological efforts can combat oppressive forces, protect dissidents, journalists, and activists, and save lives. There are some really exciting ways folks with all sorts of talents can get involved in the global effort for human rights and humanitarian improvement. Come hear about some of the efforts that seek to help the oppressed worldwide, and how you can help. </p>