On October 7, 2022, The Catholic University of America’s Center for Human Rights and the Institute for Human Ecology co-sponsored a public conversation titled “Communism and Human Freedom” in Washington, D.C. The event featured Dr. William Saunders, Director of the Center for Human Rights, alongside Dr. Lee Edwards, Founder of the Victims of Communism Museum. Together, they presented a powerful exploration of what we can learn from past resistance to communism in order to confront its modern forms.

The discussion opened with a stark reminder of communism’s historical toll—over 100 million lives lost and countless more imprisoned—highlighting its status as “the greatest threat humanity has ever faced.” Saunders and Edwards emphasized that even today, China remains under communist rule, and its global ambitions pose fresh challenges to freedom.

Dr. Edwards drew on his deep experience as a historian and museum founder to unpack the roots of anti-communist resistance. He traced the ideological origins of communism, recounted defining moments of Cold War defiance, and emphasized how continued vigilance is essential to prevent authoritarian resurgence. Saunders responded by connecting these lessons to current threats, urging listeners to defend democratic institutions and moral clarity in the face of state-sponsored repression.

The event concluded with a compelling call to action: each listener must bear witness to the truth about communism and uphold human dignity wherever it’s under attack. Through public education and moral engagement, the Center reaffirmed its mission to support freedom and foster resistance to oppressive ideologies—reminding all that the fight for human rights continues, rooted in memory, courage, and solidarity.