In 1945, the United Nations (UN) was established as the one place on earth where all the world’s nations can gather, discuss common problems, and find shared solutions to benefit all of humanity.
The UN is charged with:
- Maintaining international peace and security
- Protecting human rights
- Delivering humanitarian aid
- Supporting sustainable development and climate action
- Upholding international law
The founding charter of the UN contained the term “human rights” seven times. The recognition of this defined human rights being a key purpose and guiding principle of the UN. On December 10, 1948, the UN General Assembly laid down the principles that brought human rights through international law in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
What is Human Rights Day?
Each year, on December 10th, Human Rights Day celebrates the adoption of the UDHR and the universal protection of fundamental human rights.
Human rights, as defined by the United Nations, include:
- The right to life and liberty
- Freedom from slavery and torture
- Freedom of opinion and expression
- The right to work and education
- And many more.
Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination.
Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now
This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” shines light on how human rights are a pathway to solutions, playing a critical role as a protective and transformative force for a better tomorrow.
Human rights impact everyone each day. There is not a day that goes by for me where I am not directly or indirectly impacted by human rights. The same goes for you. Unfortunately, we often are lost in the noise of the day, and don’t even realize when it is happening, or who it is happening to. We may not even realize we are the ones violating someone else’s human rights.
You see, human rights are about the dignity and worth of the human person. When you think about it from that perspective, it is a lot easier to feel the hurt you have received or given.
A Personal Reflection
I had never read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights until now. I mean it is also possible this was a school assignment at some point, and I just don’t remember it. I am grateful though, that I did take the time to read it fully today. For me, reading the UDHR was a reminder of the fundamental rights we have as humans. It also created a reflection point, observing that we have all become lost. We need to come back together and defend Our Rights to prevent harm before it happens, protect our rights to protect Our Future, and advance human rights to create a fairer world Right Now.
Protecting Our Future
On this Human Rights Day, we encourage you to:
- Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Familiarize yourself with the principles that safeguard dignity and equality.
- Learn more about the United Nations: Discover their year-round efforts to defend, protect, and advance human rights for all.
- Take action: Reflect on how you can contribute to creating a more inclusive world, starting with your community.
