“Upholding human rights is in the interest of all. Respect for human rights advances well-being for every individual, stability for every society, and harmony for our interconnected world.” United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Motivation Mondays: HUMAN RIGHTS – It Matters and Impacts us all
Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December. It commemorates the day on which, in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 1950, the Assembly passed resolution 423 (V), inviting all States and interested organizations to observe 10 December of each year as Human Rights Day.
This year, Human Rights Day calls on everyone to stand up for someone’s rights! Disrespect for basic human rights continues to be wide-spread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack. UN Human Rights Day
What does Universal Human Rights mean to you? Did you know that Saturday, December 10, is Human Rights Day? Human Rights is a topic that calls our attention every day because, somewhere, some place on this beautiful planet of ours, someone’s human rights are being violated, cast aside, and in some cases terminated. Even though Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that”All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights,” we live in an unequal world where 60 million people are displaced by war and repressive regimes, and 1 million people seek asylum in neighboring countries or in nations further afield. As people flee the terror in their homelands to seemingly safer nations, they find an unwelcome pushback from locals who feel the presence of new immigrants will strain their coffers and culture. We are in a changing world and, while some of us can afford to tune out these shifts and the fleeing millions, we will eventually feel the impact in every nation across the globe.
Where does it begin? Whether you are fortunate enough to live in a free country that protects your human rights or not, we must not forget those whose basic, fundamental freedoms are denied around the world. The truth is that human rights begin in our homes, with us, our actions, and our attitudes toward those who don’t look or think like us. When we negate the existence of other members of our human race behind closed doors or publicly, our disdain finds a doorway through which it spreads, sometimes quietly and insidiously, tainting and maiming everyone in its path, including ourselves. If we make an effort to connect with others and find common ground in our differences, we can help rebuild our world. So, the theme for this year’s UN Human Rights campaign is “Stand up for someone’s rights today.” Who will that be? We can begin at home by encouraging our loved ones and supporting their choices and dreams. We can begin by making peace an unequivocal priority in our households and our dealings with others. We can take the UN’s five suggested ways to stand up for human rights and share them with everyone who crosses our path. (see below)
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… Eleanor Roosevelt
Motivation Mondays: HUMAN RIGHTS – It Matters and Impacts us all
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 he lives in; the school or college he attends; the factory, farm, or office where he works. 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. Without concerted citizen action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world. Eleanor Roosevelt
What does the UN recommend as proactive ways to help us understand the powerful impact standing up for rights can have on our communities and us? As far back as I can remember, I’ve always believed that the first place and way to fight oppression and discrimination is at home. We teach our children what we know, and they take those messages and ideas with them into the world. We help them develop a worldview that might be expansive or myopic, and that worldview will become the vision they share with others. So what we do and say at home has tremendous impact not just at home but globally. How can we make an impact positively? How can we motivate ourselves to change for the good of our global community? Here are 5 suggested tips? Read them below and choose which path of action works best for you.
1. Inform yourself and others about why human rights matter
Read and share the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Record the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in your native language and contribute to a collection of audio recordings to make the document more accessible.
Make and disseminate a video of yourself with a friend talking about why you believe human rights matter (e.g. non-discrimination, gender equality or freedom of expression).
Promote stories on your social media about people that you know have stood up for rights 2. Speak out/up when another (person’s) rights are at risk or under attack
If you see someone being harassed, bullied or ridiculed on the street, on public transportation, while shopping or at school, stand with them.
Use social media to stand with people who are facing reprisals for defending human rights e.g. activists, indigenous leaders, environmentalists, lawyers, trade unionists, journalists, etc.
At work, in school, around the dinner table, help someone whose voice is rarely heard to share their views. 3. Stand with others’ human rights
Donate to organizations that support victims of human rights abuses.
Join public events in support of human rights – online and/or in the street.
Volunteer with a group that promotes human rights defenders 4. Call on leaders to uphold human rights
Lobby your government to uphold rights: sign related petitions; lobby your legislators to pass human-rights friendly laws and to repeal unfriendly ones
Urge your employer to sign up to the UN Global Compact and adhere to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights; promote celebration of human rights in the work place (e.g. nondiscrimination, family friendly policies, decent working conditions, equal pay for equal work).
Urge your community’s leaders (e.g. religious, local, sporting, cultural leaders) to make public commitments to human rights. 5. In everyday life action
Combat myths with facts: in online and daily conversations, challenge harmful stereotypes
Speak up for tolerance and against prejudice. Keep yourself in check, challenge your own views and prejudices
Consider the human rights track record of companies before doing your shopping
Talk to your children about human rights and point out positive and diverse role models. UN Take Action
The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for October and November 2016 are:
DECEMBER
12/05 – 01 World AIDS Day, 02 Int’ l Abolition of Slavery Day, 07 Pearl Harbor/Remembrance, 08 Immaculate Conception
12/12 – 10 Human Rights Day, 12 Green Day, 16 Day of Reconciliation,
12/19 – 18 Int’ l Migrants Day, 21 Winter Solstice, 24 Start of Hanukkah, 25 Christmas Day
12/26 – 26 Start of Kwanzaa Day, 31 End of Year!
Are You Looking for Ways to Stay Creative in 2016?
“It’s time for each of us to step up for human rights. No action is too small: wherever you are, you can make a difference. Together, let’s take a stand for more humanity.” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein
Motivation Mondays: HUMAN RIGHTS – It Matters and Impacts us all
We must reaffirm our common humanity. Wherever we are, we can make a real difference. In the street, in school, at work, in public transport; in the voting booth, on social media.
The time for this is now. “We the peoples” can take a stand for rights. And together, we can take a stand for more humanity.
It starts with each of us. Step forward and defend the rights of a refugee or migrant, a person with disabilities, an LGBT person, a woman, a child, indigenous peoples, a minority group, or anyone else at risk of discrimination or violence. UN Human Rights Day
Are You Motivated by Love or Fear? According to Human Rights Watch (HRW), the global shift and growth in populist movements, and the increase in refugees fleeing their native lands into other countries, reached a peak in 2016 as the fear of terror, the adoption of repressive laws, and the disruption of civil society gained ground in many nations globally. The PDF from HRW, which I encourage you to read, considers how the Politics of Fear and shifts in civil society impact us. It looks at the range of legal recognition available to transgender people and how those rights are addressed and challenged globally; It reminds us of the need to end the practice of child brides and early underage marriages and how that impacts girls in poor countries; and it delves deep into the heart-wrenching problem of children behind bars and the global increase in the detention of minors. While these issues might not affect you directly, they have overarching global impacts that will ultimately come to roost on our doorsteps. When we see human rights as a universal right that should be enjoyed by all, not just a few, we will be on the path to uniting our world and ending strife, war, and hatred
If you are not motivated to act, perhaps the sobering figures below will stir something inside of you. But first, we must consider ways to act and be of service to humanity: This could be done in so many ways, both small and large; we can read, share information, educate those around us, donate time, money, and goodwill to organizations of peace, and make a concerted effort to speak up whenever we can. We live in a world where 40 million children under the age of 15 have their rights violated daily. We are silent observers of the 27 million people enslaved in the human and sex trafficking trade around the world. We live in a world where 245 million children are child laborers with no rights to their freedom or future. We live in a global community where armed conflict has decimated communities, leaving 2 million children dead, 4 to 5 million disabled, and 12 million homeless because warring factions can’t come to the table to act in the best interests of their people and the world at large. As citizens living in countries where common basic rights of movement, speech, and religious freedom are ubiquitous, it behooves us not to forget to add our voices and our prayers to support those who live in countries where such rights don’t exist or where despots and war have subverted them. What will motivate you to act? READ: Do Something: 11 Facts About Human Rights Violations
Positive Motivation Tip: We can make an impact by choosing to be conscious of our collective human rights daily. Your actions can make a difference!
Motivation Mondays is open to anyone who wants to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge, or post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note. Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a Motivation word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below) Email address: You may email or share your post as a comment, and I will add it to the round-up of related posts. email it to: contact(@)mirthandmotivation(.)com Category tag: – Share your post using Motivation Mondays Twitter hashtag: – Use this on Twitter #MotvnM Dedicated Page: There is a dedicated page for Motivation Mondays. It has the same instructions and will include other helpful tools and a link to the round-up Facebook Page:MotivationOnMonday.s Join our page and add your post and/or any motivational piece you think will be helpful to others. Facebook Community: We have a Facebook community forum to complement the page. It’s another way to share uplifting posts and thoughts. Please join in and add your voice.
Badge: – I created a fun badge using PicMonkey’s free photo editing tools. You can create your own, useWordPress’’ integrated tool on your blog, or you are welcome to use mine. (see dedicated page) Tag: – Motivation Mondays Hashtag: – #MotvnM Related Posts
I think everyone deserves to have rights. I always teach my kids this. My daughter asked about two mothers loving each other because her friend has two mothers, and I explained that it’s their right and she was all, “Yeah, it’s a beautiful thing!”
I love your blog, you always have such inspirational posts. I believe everyone is equal regardless of how much money you make, what color your skin is, what your religion is… or anything really.
I’m with you on that count. After all, oppressive leaders were once children. When we raise our kids in an environment of hate, we can’t expect honey to grow. Some make it out with their own vision but, many kids tow the line… As parents, we must be vigilant. <3
This post is a timely reminder for all of us, especially at this time of the year. We’re living in unsettling times, and it’s never been more important for love and tolerance to overcome hate and fear.
What a great list of action items. I am working hard with my children to not only speak up for themselves, but to speak up for others, as well as to be motivated by love. Great post.
Great effort on your part! Thank you! The work begins in our homes. Nothing is more disturbing that to see a child filled with hatred…. The negative messaging must stop!
Human rights are so important to talk about and remember that we need to keep making steps in the right direction, helping everyone get rights. It is really great there is a day dedicated to bringing awareness to the issue.
Indeed. Thank you Jamie! As bloggers we have a platform we can use to make a difference in the lives of others. Regardless of our niche, we can commit to raising awareness about different issues that affect our local and global communities. Every voice counts. <3
It is so important to remember that not everyone has basic human rights and that we need to keep working to helping everyone get them. It is great there is a day dedicated to it to raise awareness.
This topic is so relevant today. It’s easy to take for granted that everyone has the same rights as we do here in America. But the truth is many people are struggling and have no voice, which is why we all need to stand up and show our support.
Cindy thank you for your thoughtful feedback! People who live in nations that are NOT led by oppressive leaders don’t even think about it until their rights are infringed upon. It is the nature of the beast. We must be vigilant and stand up for those whose voices can’t be heard because they have been silenced by authoritarian regimes. Human rights is a universal right… we must not forget it. <3
I feel disheartened some days that our leaders don’t really hear us. Do they read those letters and postcards I send? Do they listen to the messages? I hope they do, and I hope they are working towards protecting human rights.
Some do and some don’t. We live in a fractious world that is increasingly marred by fake news. People believe the worst about others and the first choice is to hate not debate. That said, I still believe in the power of the human spirit and the presence of good to hold us up to the light. We can’t afford to fall into despair about our world. My hope is yours. Thank you for your thoughtful comment.
PS. I wish all those folks who think “Thank you for sharing!” is a comment would read yours, and take a little time to read and leave a meaningful comment like yours…
Again, thank you!
This is such a great post, especially with how things have been going recently. Everyone around the world should have the same rights and opportunities.
This is a such a great reminder to bring awareness to the human rights issues. I just wish our leaders and those in power would do more to help towards human rights!
I cannot believe many people do not care about universal human rights. They basically feel as long it does not affect them they don’t want to be involved which I personally think is very selfish. It breaks my heart that so many people are suffering around the world while others don’t.
As I read this post, I kept thinking about the issue that I am active in addressing – clean water. I recently participated in a protest/show of solidarity for the Dakota Pipeline pipeline. I have protested for clean water in FLorida too. I live in FL, and what is happening to our environment and water here is atrocious. Years of political corruption via the US sugar industry caused it here. But it is all the same problem everywhere – corporations allowed to pillage the environment, enabled by the politicians that are paid off. Water is required to live, so therefore clean water is a right. Great post and a good read, thank you 🙂
Let our voice be heard! Every single voice counts! Spreading awareness on human rights and fighting for what we believe is important. Human right is something that needs to practice on a daily basis.
Human rights are very important, but I think it’s important to realize that they shouldn’t be divided and we should focus on rights for ALL. Awesome read!
It’s funny how you would think that the issue of human rights would slowly dissipate into nothing and we would all live equally but sadly it seems to be getting worse- just in different ways. There are SO many things our government fail to talk about.
Everyone of us should know our right, the fact of our being human. And what was happening now in Syria was so moving and terrible, and it is so sad that the government just letting those things to happen. All we can do now is pray for them for Prayer is so magical enclosing it with faith to our Lord Jesus Christ.
I think it is very important not just to speak up for yourself, but for others when you see that they are being bullied. Your point number 2 strikes a personal chord for me and i hope that everyone will stand up for their fellow man when they are being oppressed. Thanks for sharing.
Such a timely read. I have always taught my children to stand up for what they believe in, as long as it conforms to the Law of God and the laws of society.
I’m ashamed to say that I didn’t realise that 10 December was human rights day. This is probably because I’m fortunate to have been born in a country that respects human rights. My heart goes out to all those who struggle every day in worn torn countries for their basic human rights.
I think it’s important for open discussions to understand our differences. I think that we all have good intentions and a story to be told and that helps us all become better people.
I think it’s important for open discussions to understand our differences. I think that we all have good intentions and a story to be told and that helps us all become better people.
I think it’s important for open discussions to understand our differences. I think that we all have good intentions and a story to be told and that helps us all become better people.
Human rights are such an important topic. It seems we all differ on what those rights are. Once we get through this “growing period” where we can discuss what’s a right, what’s a privilege, I think we’ll be so much closing to protecting all rights.
Human rights is such an important issue that definitely gets ignored. I’ve never felt more that human rights are being violated in the US. I just hope our leaders will start pressing these issues.
ALL Humans and animals have rights as far as I am concerned. I try and do what I can when I can. I just worry about what will happen in the near future–I have a feeling we will all be signing petitions etc.
I didn’t know there was a Human Rights Day. Universal Human Rights, to me, translates to the fact that there are some basic needs and aspects of human life that we all deserve.
We’re fortunate to live in the U.S., but not everyone is really “free”. We’re so focused on matters overseas that we forget about the troubles we face here in our country.
With everything that is currently going on in the media, the topic and discussion of human rights is an important one. I hope mankind starts to move in the right direction.
Very nice that there is a date dedicated to make awareness about human rights. Living in a world with so much injustice we all have to recognize we are human beings and we need to respect everyone.
The family as the basic unit of the society is where human rights should start. Our kids must know what their rights are and to respect other people’s rights too.
This was a great read and very informative. I am a teacher and I try to bring in what I can so that kids understand that things are not always what they seem. We also have a great Human Rights Museum here in Atlanta. We take the kids there for field trips. It is quite an eye opener for all that visit.
The human rights of every single person on the planet are so important to uphold regardless of race, sexual identity, faith or lack there of, etc. We are all human and we all deserve our rights.
Human rights is a daily issue in the news in our country with our new President not exactly seeing eye to eye with human rights advocates. This is sad because everyone should be supportive of human rights. It is simply the right thing to do, even if it may tend to preventing crime more difficult.
Bless you, Elizabeth. Your voice is SO very needed now! I applaud your efforts more than I can say. And you hit on the key–standing up for human rights begins in our own homes, our neighborhoods, our communities. And then, it translates into the global sphere.
Thank you, thank you. Keep up the good work!
We should teach our children to respect human rights. With these online games children dont seem to recognise the laws of the land so its our job as parents to inculcate the love of others . As future leaders and receivers of the same rights its their right today to be guided to the right path. Yet as parents how can we guide them if we dont know them. So this post is much needed. Powerful message Elizabeth!
Human Rights is such a timely topic all across the globe including here in the Philippines where people are unjustly killed and oppressed left and right everyday. I hope this post reaches those leaders who can really influence their communities. Let’s continue to uphold our human rights!
What resonated the most for me in this post was the idea of standing up for others’ human rights. I think silence in this case is deadly. People need to speak up and speak out about violations. So important.
Such an important post and a topic I’ll bring up at dinner time tonight for the kids. I think at this time of the year especially, when the material world is king, it is so important to drive home the message that there are so many people who cannot even imagine the comforts and security we see as our right.
It is depressing to know that Human Rights violation is common across the world. I just don’t understand why some cannot treat others as humans…. Its shocking and surprising…
The sentence: Are you motivated by love or by fear made me think. Many people are motivated more by fear than love, meaning they do or not do certain stuff out of fear. Sad truth.
I think we should all do our part to help those less fortunate and in need. I think everyone is important and enjoyed reading your post and the issues it raised.
So important to learn and know and be responsible about this very basic need in times like today’s where human rights violation are so common. Look what is happening in countries like Syria. It is heart breaking … No humans should be made to live in miserable conditions like that. The effects of these go on for generations!
We live in a country where, although we have many issues and disagreements, we are incredibly lucky to have a voice and platforms to effect change. In Cuba, where I come from, there is not even the option to voice concerns, let alone act.
I think there should be a single-legal definition for Human rights. Yes we have universal declaration but there are many things that are not mentioned in it like sexual orientation or sexual identity
Good point. The UN has a definition that most of the member states agree to, but execution is another story. Some agree in writing, but practice something else.
what an important subject, especially as I hear so many news from all over the world, that showcase how far we still have to go, until we all have our basic rights protected.We need to make sure we keep up the fight, and do not stop until it becomes a reality. Blessings!
I watch the news and read the papers and worry that we are all going backwards regarding Human Rights. We all know how we individually want to be treated but as a society people seem to care less and less about the plight of others. If people are different to us so what if they are ill-treated they probably deserve it seems to be the attitude. It is only by standing up and saying NO I will not accept this disrespect of the rights of others that we will protect the rights of all. It may not seem much as an individual but drops of water wear away the hardest stone.
Human rights remind me a lot about the tragedies that happened this year particularly to what’s currently happening in Syria. 🙁 Only if people will be able to learn the real meaning of “Human Rights” and we aren’t selective in uttering this word, maybe we can save more lives.
What a great post. I actually had to help my son with a project last year that had to do with universal human rights. We learned so much after researching this. I do think it is important to teach out children through role modeling what ti means to give back and to stand up for those less fortunate than ourselves.
What a great post. I had to help my son with a universal human rights post last year and we learned a great deal. We also have a Center for Human Rights here in Atlanta. It is a great place to go to and expericne what we should be doing.
I’ve always been on the side of human rights. I just don’t particularly like it when it’s mixed together with criminal and victim rights and leads to the former having more than the latter.
Talking about human rights is always a discussion filled with many ways of achieving the same goal. It’s the wrong outcomes that makes the whole subject more sensitive to begin with.
This is a ton of detailed and great information about human rights. The current social and political climate of the world has me worried about my country (USA) and those countries on which we play a major part in terms of Human rights, aid, and peace keeping.
I can not agree with you more – upholding human rights starts in our own homes, in our own relationships, in our own communities. We have to teach our children as they grow up to uphold others’ rights by setting an example.
When I read this post on Human Rights, it takes me to the condition in Syria. So many kids scarred for life and devoid of any rights. Still living in fear just because of a bunch of rats in arms. Can not even imagine what the civilians are going through.
Inspiring read! Speaking up for other people who may be at disadvantage is actually a simple thing to do, especially if we are living in a free country (others are even shot or jailed for speaking up their minds!). We should really do it more.
Yes, it’s very important to teach our children to respect every human right, because what you learn at home that you will do in life. My parents did a great job for me and my sister and now we are adult people and know everything what we need to know about respect other people and their right. We are all people but the most important thing to remember that we must be human at first. This is very nice post and I agree with you.
I agree we should all speak up for ourselves as well as others. Your post is very thought provoking. The world seems to be so full of doom and gloom on the news etc… We need to listen to more positive voices like yours!
Really timely article given the state of the world today. Human Rights day has taken on mew meaning for me. I am currently in Cambodia where this day is celebrated as a major holiday. Not Christmas (because it is a Buddhist country), but Human Rights Day. Indeed, Cambodia does have a history in this area..though it is interesting to see how important this day! Great article!
In the current world scenario, Human Rights are the most important topic. This is not something that affects just a few countries but all of us at large. It’s so sad that these days everything about a political power play and important topics like Human Rights are never treated as equally important. There are somany people who don’t have a voice and noone to represent them. We need to come together as humans and protect and fight for all our friends.
This is good information!
We have to always begin with our children, so they can grow up with the passion to care for others and see them as kindred humans.
Thanks for sharing.
That is so very true! It begins at home. I love this post as it is very inspirational. It is so right to stand up and it’s time to hear our voices. Thanks for sharing
I think everyone deserves to have rights. I always teach my kids this. My daughter asked about two mothers loving each other because her friend has two mothers, and I explained that it’s their right and she was all, “Yeah, it’s a beautiful thing!”
This is so important! Thank you for sharing!
I love your blog, you always have such inspirational posts. I believe everyone is equal regardless of how much money you make, what color your skin is, what your religion is… or anything really.
Every day needs to be human rights day!
I keep seeing John Lennon in my mind when reading this.
Ty for this great post ! It’s great to educate ourselves on human rights and also educate our children ❤️
human rights to me means. Being nice to everyone not just certain people and not being greedy.
I feel like this post is so incredibly important and powerful for the current times. I agree that teaching human rights begins at home.
I’m with you on that count. After all, oppressive leaders were once children. When we raise our kids in an environment of hate, we can’t expect honey to grow. Some make it out with their own vision but, many kids tow the line… As parents, we must be vigilant. <3
This is really amazing and motivationig post! You always write about great causes! Thanks for sharing!
a really great motivation. its a site worth visiting!
Wow! Great article on such an important topic! So true to start at home with our families, in our communities! Thanks for writing this!
This post is a timely reminder for all of us, especially at this time of the year. We’re living in unsettling times, and it’s never been more important for love and tolerance to overcome hate and fear.
I love this post.You did a great job laying it all out there. Right von!
What a great list of action items. I am working hard with my children to not only speak up for themselves, but to speak up for others, as well as to be motivated by love. Great post.
Great effort on your part! Thank you! The work begins in our homes. Nothing is more disturbing that to see a child filled with hatred…. The negative messaging must stop!
Human rights are so important to talk about and remember that we need to keep making steps in the right direction, helping everyone get rights. It is really great there is a day dedicated to bringing awareness to the issue.
Indeed. Thank you Jamie! As bloggers we have a platform we can use to make a difference in the lives of others. Regardless of our niche, we can commit to raising awareness about different issues that affect our local and global communities. Every voice counts. <3
It is so important to remember that not everyone has basic human rights and that we need to keep working to helping everyone get them. It is great there is a day dedicated to it to raise awareness.
This topic is so relevant today. It’s easy to take for granted that everyone has the same rights as we do here in America. But the truth is many people are struggling and have no voice, which is why we all need to stand up and show our support.
Cindy thank you for your thoughtful feedback! People who live in nations that are NOT led by oppressive leaders don’t even think about it until their rights are infringed upon. It is the nature of the beast. We must be vigilant and stand up for those whose voices can’t be heard because they have been silenced by authoritarian regimes. Human rights is a universal right… we must not forget it. <3
This is a great article to read about human rights. Very important topic to discuss and I’m glad you shared this.
I feel disheartened some days that our leaders don’t really hear us. Do they read those letters and postcards I send? Do they listen to the messages? I hope they do, and I hope they are working towards protecting human rights.
Some do and some don’t. We live in a fractious world that is increasingly marred by fake news. People believe the worst about others and the first choice is to hate not debate. That said, I still believe in the power of the human spirit and the presence of good to hold us up to the light. We can’t afford to fall into despair about our world. My hope is yours. Thank you for your thoughtful comment.
PS. I wish all those folks who think “Thank you for sharing!” is a comment would read yours, and take a little time to read and leave a meaningful comment like yours…
Again, thank you!
This is such a great post, especially with how things have been going recently. Everyone around the world should have the same rights and opportunities.
It is very important to protect others and treat them how we would like to be treated ourselves. Human rights should not be a luxury but a necessity.
I did not know that Saturday was human rights day. I do believe everyone should have the same basic human rights.
This is a such a great reminder to bring awareness to the human rights issues. I just wish our leaders and those in power would do more to help towards human rights!
I cannot believe many people do not care about universal human rights. They basically feel as long it does not affect them they don’t want to be involved which I personally think is very selfish. It breaks my heart that so many people are suffering around the world while others don’t.
As I read this post, I kept thinking about the issue that I am active in addressing – clean water. I recently participated in a protest/show of solidarity for the Dakota Pipeline pipeline. I have protested for clean water in FLorida too. I live in FL, and what is happening to our environment and water here is atrocious. Years of political corruption via the US sugar industry caused it here. But it is all the same problem everywhere – corporations allowed to pillage the environment, enabled by the politicians that are paid off. Water is required to live, so therefore clean water is a right. Great post and a good read, thank you 🙂
This is particularly important to teach to our young ones. As a teacher, covering a variety of history topics, I tend to discuss this often.
Peoples rights are important to consider. Even when we don’t agree we need to be respectful of others rights. Teaching this begins at a young age.
Let our voice be heard! Every single voice counts! Spreading awareness on human rights and fighting for what we believe is important. Human right is something that needs to practice on a daily basis.
Really loved to read this post, totally motivational. You just motivated my entire day. Keep writing in the same way.
Human rights are very important, but I think it’s important to realize that they shouldn’t be divided and we should focus on rights for ALL. Awesome read!
It’s funny how you would think that the issue of human rights would slowly dissipate into nothing and we would all live equally but sadly it seems to be getting worse- just in different ways. There are SO many things our government fail to talk about.
Everyone of us should know our right, the fact of our being human. And what was happening now in Syria was so moving and terrible, and it is so sad that the government just letting those things to happen. All we can do now is pray for them for Prayer is so magical enclosing it with faith to our Lord Jesus Christ.
I think it is very important not just to speak up for yourself, but for others when you see that they are being bullied. Your point number 2 strikes a personal chord for me and i hope that everyone will stand up for their fellow man when they are being oppressed. Thanks for sharing.
Such a timely read. I have always taught my children to stand up for what they believe in, as long as it conforms to the Law of God and the laws of society.
I’m ashamed to say that I didn’t realise that 10 December was human rights day. This is probably because I’m fortunate to have been born in a country that respects human rights. My heart goes out to all those who struggle every day in worn torn countries for their basic human rights.
I think it’s important for open discussions to understand our differences. I think that we all have good intentions and a story to be told and that helps us all become better people.
I think it’s important for open discussions to understand our differences. I think that we all have good intentions and a story to be told and that helps us all become better people.
I think it’s important for open discussions to understand our differences. I think that we all have good intentions and a story to be told and that helps us all become better people.
Human rights are such an important topic. It seems we all differ on what those rights are. Once we get through this “growing period” where we can discuss what’s a right, what’s a privilege, I think we’ll be so much closing to protecting all rights.
Your post is great! People should raise more awareness of the importance of human rights. And children should be taught about it as early as possible!
A man’s freedom ends when he has encroached another man’s rights. Human right is important so each could have their own freedom and independence.
Respect, and self love will cure this world. The more we know about love the more we will tolerate others and their rights or privileges
Teaching human rights is very important. Thank you for sharing this post.
I am always thankful that we live in a world where it is okay to step out and stand up for what we believe in. Not everyone has that luxury.
Such an important cause in such hard times! We sometimes forget our world is so much bigger than what we see.
We are ALL the same. No matter who we love or what we like. We deserve the same rights.
Thank you for sharing this post. I think human right should be teach at home as well, Still people are not aware about human rights. Informative post.
Human rights is such an important issue that definitely gets ignored. I’ve never felt more that human rights are being violated in the US. I just hope our leaders will start pressing these issues.
ALL Humans and animals have rights as far as I am concerned. I try and do what I can when I can. I just worry about what will happen in the near future–I have a feeling we will all be signing petitions etc.
Human rights are so important!!! It is amazing how much people have a disregard to basic human rights
I didn’t know there was a Human Rights Day. Universal Human Rights, to me, translates to the fact that there are some basic needs and aspects of human life that we all deserve.
We’re fortunate to live in the U.S., but not everyone is really “free”. We’re so focused on matters overseas that we forget about the troubles we face here in our country.
With everything that is currently going on in the media, the topic and discussion of human rights is an important one. I hope mankind starts to move in the right direction.
Very nice that there is a date dedicated to make awareness about human rights. Living in a world with so much injustice we all have to recognize we are human beings and we need to respect everyone.
The family as the basic unit of the society is where human rights should start. Our kids must know what their rights are and to respect other people’s rights too.
motivation wednesday! A great way to get through the week
This was a great read and very informative. I am a teacher and I try to bring in what I can so that kids understand that things are not always what they seem. We also have a great Human Rights Museum here in Atlanta. We take the kids there for field trips. It is quite an eye opener for all that visit.
The human rights of every single person on the planet are so important to uphold regardless of race, sexual identity, faith or lack there of, etc. We are all human and we all deserve our rights.
Human rights is a daily issue in the news in our country with our new President not exactly seeing eye to eye with human rights advocates. This is sad because everyone should be supportive of human rights. It is simply the right thing to do, even if it may tend to preventing crime more difficult.
Bless you, Elizabeth. Your voice is SO very needed now! I applaud your efforts more than I can say. And you hit on the key–standing up for human rights begins in our own homes, our neighborhoods, our communities. And then, it translates into the global sphere.
Thank you, thank you. Keep up the good work!
We should teach our children to respect human rights. With these online games children dont seem to recognise the laws of the land so its our job as parents to inculcate the love of others . As future leaders and receivers of the same rights its their right today to be guided to the right path. Yet as parents how can we guide them if we dont know them. So this post is much needed. Powerful message Elizabeth!
Human Rights is such a timely topic all across the globe including here in the Philippines where people are unjustly killed and oppressed left and right everyday. I hope this post reaches those leaders who can really influence their communities. Let’s continue to uphold our human rights!
I completely agree! Everyone needs to stand up for what they believe in, no matter how small it seems!
Our rights are important. The rights of everyone are important as long as they follow the law. This does need to be taught in the home.
If we all act out of love, we can exercise respecting human rights. Love is what urges us to take action and really show care.
❀ Grace ❀
What resonated the most for me in this post was the idea of standing up for others’ human rights. I think silence in this case is deadly. People need to speak up and speak out about violations. So important.
Such an important post and a topic I’ll bring up at dinner time tonight for the kids. I think at this time of the year especially, when the material world is king, it is so important to drive home the message that there are so many people who cannot even imagine the comforts and security we see as our right.
It is depressing to know that Human Rights violation is common across the world. I just don’t understand why some cannot treat others as humans…. Its shocking and surprising…
The sentence: Are you motivated by love or by fear made me think. Many people are motivated more by fear than love, meaning they do or not do certain stuff out of fear. Sad truth.
I think we should all do our part to help those less fortunate and in need. I think everyone is important and enjoyed reading your post and the issues it raised.
human rights are really important and good to know that we have day dedicated to that
So important to learn and know and be responsible about this very basic need in times like today’s where human rights violation are so common. Look what is happening in countries like Syria. It is heart breaking … No humans should be made to live in miserable conditions like that. The effects of these go on for generations!
We live in a country where, although we have many issues and disagreements, we are incredibly lucky to have a voice and platforms to effect change. In Cuba, where I come from, there is not even the option to voice concerns, let alone act.
I love that photo of the silhouettes and the rainbow.. it says so much.. great post.
My daughter and I have been talking a lot lately about the world and human rights. Perfect images for the topic as always.
This is such a powerful post, thank you for sharing it.
Very empowering article. You are so right. What we value as “human rights” begins in our own homes.
thanks so much for sharing your monday motivations. human rights is such an important topic. the action items are great.
This is such a motivational post! Great job!
This is very apt for my country now. I agree each one should be taught about this earlier at home 🙂
I think there should be a single-legal definition for Human rights. Yes we have universal declaration but there are many things that are not mentioned in it like sexual orientation or sexual identity
Good point. The UN has a definition that most of the member states agree to, but execution is another story. Some agree in writing, but practice something else.
what an important subject, especially as I hear so many news from all over the world, that showcase how far we still have to go, until we all have our basic rights protected.We need to make sure we keep up the fight, and do not stop until it becomes a reality. Blessings!
I watch the news and read the papers and worry that we are all going backwards regarding Human Rights. We all know how we individually want to be treated but as a society people seem to care less and less about the plight of others. If people are different to us so what if they are ill-treated they probably deserve it seems to be the attitude. It is only by standing up and saying NO I will not accept this disrespect of the rights of others that we will protect the rights of all. It may not seem much as an individual but drops of water wear away the hardest stone.
Human rights remind me a lot about the tragedies that happened this year particularly to what’s currently happening in Syria. 🙁 Only if people will be able to learn the real meaning of “Human Rights” and we aren’t selective in uttering this word, maybe we can save more lives.
We take this for granted. So many people are not as fortunate as us. Human rights should be available to every one.
What a great post. I actually had to help my son with a project last year that had to do with universal human rights. We learned so much after researching this. I do think it is important to teach out children through role modeling what ti means to give back and to stand up for those less fortunate than ourselves.
What a great post. I had to help my son with a universal human rights post last year and we learned a great deal. We also have a Center for Human Rights here in Atlanta. It is a great place to go to and expericne what we should be doing.
This is something we should all have, but sadly we don’t. It’s scary actually.
I had no clue that there was a human rights day. However, it is an important topic, so I am glad to see that it does have its own day.
I’ve always been on the side of human rights. I just don’t particularly like it when it’s mixed together with criminal and victim rights and leads to the former having more than the latter.
Talking about human rights is always a discussion filled with many ways of achieving the same goal. It’s the wrong outcomes that makes the whole subject more sensitive to begin with.
This is a ton of detailed and great information about human rights. The current social and political climate of the world has me worried about my country (USA) and those countries on which we play a major part in terms of Human rights, aid, and peace keeping.
I can not agree with you more – upholding human rights starts in our own homes, in our own relationships, in our own communities. We have to teach our children as they grow up to uphold others’ rights by setting an example.
When I read this post on Human Rights, it takes me to the condition in Syria. So many kids scarred for life and devoid of any rights. Still living in fear just because of a bunch of rats in arms. Can not even imagine what the civilians are going through.
Inspiring read! Speaking up for other people who may be at disadvantage is actually a simple thing to do, especially if we are living in a free country (others are even shot or jailed for speaking up their minds!). We should really do it more.
Yes, it’s very important to teach our children to respect every human right, because what you learn at home that you will do in life. My parents did a great job for me and my sister and now we are adult people and know everything what we need to know about respect other people and their right. We are all people but the most important thing to remember that we must be human at first. This is very nice post and I agree with you.
I wish you happy holidays and all the best!
Greetings!
Marko
I agree we should all speak up for ourselves as well as others. Your post is very thought provoking. The world seems to be so full of doom and gloom on the news etc… We need to listen to more positive voices like yours!
Really timely article given the state of the world today. Human Rights day has taken on mew meaning for me. I am currently in Cambodia where this day is celebrated as a major holiday. Not Christmas (because it is a Buddhist country), but Human Rights Day. Indeed, Cambodia does have a history in this area..though it is interesting to see how important this day! Great article!
In the current world scenario, Human Rights are the most important topic. This is not something that affects just a few countries but all of us at large. It’s so sad that these days everything about a political power play and important topics like Human Rights are never treated as equally important. There are somany people who don’t have a voice and noone to represent them. We need to come together as humans and protect and fight for all our friends.
This is good information!
We have to always begin with our children, so they can grow up with the passion to care for others and see them as kindred humans.
Thanks for sharing.
That is so very true! It begins at home. I love this post as it is very inspirational. It is so right to stand up and it’s time to hear our voices. Thanks for sharing