 December 10, 2008 will mark the 60th Anniversary
of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the founding
document of the modern human rights system. The UDHR is a set of basic rights and protections
that are to be enjoyed by all persons throughout the world, regardless
of race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion,
national or social origin, property, birth or other status. The
UDHR recognizes that "the inherent dignity and... the equal and inalienable
rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom,
justice and peace in the world."
While the US government was a leading voice
in the creation of the UDHR, its policy and practice over the
past 60 years has shown a failure to live up to these ideals. To
celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the UDHR, the ACLU will be engaging
in an advocacy campaign to raise awareness of US obligations and
shortcomings under the UDHR and international human rights law.
A recommitment by the US to the principles and ideals of the UDHR
is essential not only for improving its standing in the world
at this particular moment, but, more importantly, for its promise
to ensure equality and justice for all at home. |
