Happy Birthday, Human Rights!

Today is Human Rights Day, the anniversary of the rebirth of hope in humankind. On December 10, 1948, after a devastating world war followed by the Nuremberg Trials revealing unspeakable atrocities committed by human beings against their brothers and sisters, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). A truly collaborative effort of writers and thinkers from many nations, this document recognizes "the inherent dignity...and the inalienable rights of all members of the human family." No government, no ruler may abrogate a single one of the Declaration's thirty articles that spell out the rights we all possess intrinsically from birth. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights became the basis of the United Nations Charter and of the international human rights organization known today as Amnesty International.

Every year, in conjunction with this important anniversary, Amnesty International promotes its Write for Rights campaign. By highlighting ten individuals or groups from around the world who have been deprived of liberty, despoiled of property, or even subjected to torture, Amnesty International gives each of us the power
to speak out on their behalf. With a click of your mouse you can let abusive governments know that the world is watching. Have a bit more time? Read the stories of these cases and compose a letter or two following the suggested model.

Would you like to join with other human rights defenders – everyday people just like you? We are Amnesty International USA Group 342, and we’re here for you. We meet the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30pm in Wegmans café, 50 Foundry Way (on Rt. 29) in Malvern, PA. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. NOTE: In December, instead of holding our usual meeting at the cafe in Wegmans, we'll be gathering at the home of one of our members. Newcomers are welcome! Contact Barbara Quintiliano for date, time, and location.

Upholding human rights is up to each of us. Click that mouse. Pick up that pen. Keep the beacon of liberty shining bright.

Happy Human Rights Day!