“Be certain that you do not die without having done something wonderful for humanity.”
—Maya Angelou
Every year on the 10th of December, Human Rights Day is celebrated. Human Rights Day is when people from different backgrounds join hands together and raise awareness of every human, woman, man, and child, irrespective of their race, religion, or ethnicity. Human Rights Day is an opportunity for you to speak up. Don’t be afraid of being a voice for the voiceless because they are the ones who need it the most.
Human Rights Day History
In 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted 10th December to be celebrated as a Human Rights Day as the Universal Declaration of Human rights. The Universal declaration is made for the sole purpose of empowering everyone. The principles opposed in this declaration are relevant now, just as much as they were in 1948.
Human Rights Day Activities
One must know the basic types of human rights and how they can contribute to spreading awareness about them. Here are some ways of how you can celebrate human rights day with your children.
As an adult, there are a lot of activities that you can do to observe Human Rights Day. Some of those activities are as follows:
1. Educate Yourself and Those Around You
One of the best and the most traditional ways to celebrate Human Rights Day is to educate yourself on fundamental human rights. Using that education, spread awareness among your family members and loved ones. There are several books about human rights that we would suggest:
- Universal Declaration of Human Rights - a book by the Draft Committee.
- Half the Sky - a book by Sheryl WuDunn and Nicholas Kristof.
- Universal Human Rights in Theory and Practice - a book by Jack Donnelly.
- The Moment of Lift - a book by Melinda Gates
- The Education of an Idealist: A Memoir - a book by Samantha Power
2. Use Media for Promoting Human Rights
Whether it is social media digital marketing or traditional channel, you can use media as a platform for promoting human rights. Participate in local talk shows and expand on the importance of human rights.
3. Increase awareness around human rights
If you are passionate about promoting human rights, you will not leave out a specific race, religion, or culture. Human rights include all religions, ethnicities, and nationalities. If you possess good creative writing skills, use them to write an educational human rights piece.
4. Give Speeches and Fundraise
If you are a student, you can use your academic institution as a platform for raising funds for the underprivileged people of your community. Donate proceeds to your favorite non-profit and mission.
5. Stand Up for Others
If you ever encounter anyone around you being bullied or attacked by a racist, stand up for her/him and/or call the police if needed.
6. Join a Group or an Organization
You can join a group or an organization and become a part of the change. There are a lot of Facebook and Twitter groups that help in addressing these sensitive issues.
Human Rights at Alvis
Alvis is a nonprofit human services agency with over 50 years of experience. We believe in the power of second chances and coming together as one community to affect change. With our reentry, behavioral health, developmental disabilities, workforce development, family and children's services, and the community, we can make a lasting 180 impact. Learn more about Alvis and how you can get involved at alvis180.org.