Celebrating International Human Rights Day- December 10th

“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home—so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. Yet they are the world of the individual person; the neighborhood they live in; the school or college they attend; the factory or farm where they work. Such are the places where every man, woman, and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity without discrimination. Unless these rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

Every year on December 10th, we observe International Human Rights Day, a day dedicated to promoting and recognizing the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every individual, regardless of their background.

Have you ever felt different, excluded, or bullied? How has it shaped your decisions? The UDHR emphasizes that human rights are foundational for freedom, justice, and peace. Yet, where is the accountability?

Despite these ideals, we witness violations of human rights in real time, as seen in the actions of leaders like Benjamin Netanyahu. He has taken billions of dollars and aide from the US to become an ICC sanctioned war criminal and go against everything this UDHR act, following World War II was meant to rectify. WTF? Are we so complicit to see this happening and not call it out?

Discrimination and exclusion impact those who are different—whether they are people of color, immigrants, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, or anyone deemed "not normal” in a right-winged Evangelical Christian movement. We must remember that everyone deserves access to basic human needs—water, housing, food, healthcare—elements critical to achieving equality, freedom, and peace.

Established by the UN General Assembly in 1948, this day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), a monumental document that laid the foundation for human dignity and justice worldwide. Looking at it now, I have to ask, why just a day? Why not an entire year? Or better yet, what if this was just the way we traffic in the world? And not human trafficking. Actually honoring human rights?

Yet, each morning, we wake up to headlines that reveal a stark reality—a world where human rights are violated daily. We scroll through news stories of oppression, discrimination, and violence, feeling frustrated, powerless, and alone. It can feel overwhelming to witness the suffering of others, especially when it seems like no one is held accountable. How often do we find ourselves asking, 'What can I do in the face of such relentless injustice?’

These feelings of helplessness remind us why human rights are essential for fostering equality, freedom, and peace. They serve as a reminder that every person deserves to live without discrimination, fear, or oppression. Human rights are essential for fostering equality, freedom, and peace. They serve as a reminder that every person deserves to live without discrimination, fear, or oppression. Celebrating this day is not just about acknowledging the rights outlined in the UDHR but also about reflecting on the ongoing struggles faced by individuals across the globe who continue to fight for their basic freedoms.

Article 5

No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment.

Again, I ask, where is the accountability?

Every person should live a life free from discrimination and oppression, feeling a sense of belonging in their communities. As we observe International Human Rights Day, let us commit to advocating for a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and flourish.

“Equality is not just a goal; it’s a necessity. We must ensure that every voice is heard and valued, and that everyone has access to the same opportunities and rights.” -Jennifer Welch

How will you contribute to this vision of equality?

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