Celebrate Universal Human Rights Month
Universal Human Rights Month is an annual designation observed in December. This month and every month to follow, people all across the globe are encouraged to come together and stand up for equality, justice, and the dignity of all humans. December is a time to honor the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, an international document stating the basic rights and fundamental freedoms to which all human beings are entitled. These rights include freedom from discrimination, the right to equality, and the right to be considered innocent until proven guilty.
How you can observe Universal Human Rights Month
Use #UniversalHumanRights, #HumanRights, and #StandUp4HumanRights to post on social media. The Dignity & Respect Campaign says the best way we can celebrate Universal Human Rights Month is by working to find common ground with those around us who may not have the same background as we do. Their advice is to remember that we were all born into the same world, we are all humans, and our different races, religions, beliefs, and cultures shouldn’t divide us. This December, take a little time out of your schedule to educate yourself. If another culture makes you anxious or apprehensive, learn more about their history and why they do things the way they do. Chances are, it’ll humanize them and help you understand that they aren’t people to be “afraid” of, or to dislike. This month, you can also:
- Read a book about the Declaration of Human rights, or about human rights in general
- Spread the word on social media
- Go out of your way to treat everyone with respect, kindness, and equality
- Teach others about why human rights for everyone are so important
History
The Universal Month for Human Rights started in 1948 when the United Nations wrote the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.