Today is Human Rights Day, the 71st anniversary of the UN’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UHDR). The 2019 theme for Human Rights Day is Youth Standing Up for Human Rights. We want to educate youth on the rights they were born with, empower them to raise their voices, and help them engage a wide range of audiences to promote human rights issues. To enhance an ecosystem for peace worldwide, it is essential for youth to be activated in the protection and promotion of human rights.

Here are 5 ways to celebrate Human Rights Day with the RAGFP.

1. Take the Human Rights Pledge
As Peacebuilders, we have a duty to act when Human Rights are violated. Take this pledge to promote and protect Human Rights for all people.

  • I will respect your rights regardless of who you are. I will uphold your rights even when I disagree with you
  • When anyone’s human rights are denied, everyone’s rights are undermined, so I will STAND UP.
  • I will raise my voice. I will take action. I will use my rights to stand up for your rights. 

2. Watch Eleanor Roosevelt’s Human Rights Speech from 1948. 

Listen to the first Chair of the United Nation’s Council of Human Rights herself discuss the importance of recognizing Universal Human Rights on the first-ever Human Rights Day celebration in 1948.

“We must want our fellow human beings to have rights and freedoms which give them dignity and which will give them a sense that they are human beings that can walk the earth with their heads held high and look all men in the face.”

3. Read the full Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Translated in 500 languages, including sign language, there is no excuse to not know your inalienable Human Rights. Spread the UDHR to your communities today. There’s even a fun illustrated version to read with the youth in your life.

4. Learn more about Peace Projects that promote Human Rights

Did you know that our RAGFP website lists Peace Projects from all over the world? Learn more about how members and Peacebuilder Clubs are promoting peace through Human Rights or submit your own peace project today.

5. Share our newsletter on social media
Celebrate Human Rights Day by spreading the word. Help the RAGFP educate the world of their natural Human Rights by sharing our newsletter with the people in your community and beyond.