Human Rights
Celebrating 70 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
In the resource kit learn more about how cities and local governments are spearheading the most critical human rights issues of our time, from achieving equity and inclusion for all people, to providing for basic needs and human dignity. Through videos, quotes, activities and essay topics, we invite you to explore discussions and calls to action from United Nations human rights trailblazers, mayors from around the world and USC leaders, as well as from actress Alyssa Milano, Jane the Virgin writer Rafael Augustín, Paralympian Candace Cable and YouTube star Gigi Gorgeous.
Teachers, student groups, advocacy organizations and thought leaders in all disciplines are encouraged to use the kit to help nurture new voices and ideas in human rights advocacy and support. These materials introduce the role the Universal Declaration of Human Rights plays in our communities and abroad and aims to inspire people to stand up for human rights by ensuring the Universal Declaration of Human Rights remains a living document for many years to come.
Help us spread the word about the campaign. Use the campaign hashtag #standup4humanrights on social media to show your support and share our posts in the digital sphere.
Human Rights and Social Work Values
by Imran A. Mohammed
“To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” Nelson Mandela
The United Nations (UN) was established following World War II (1939–45) in June 1945 with 50 member states. The UN plays an important role across the globe in assuring security and human rights for all people. December 10, 1948, marks a very important day in history, because the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In embracing the Declaration, 48 nations asserted their strong obligation that all humans deserved to be treated with respect and dignity, and with peace in the world.
The social work profession shares a close relationship with human rights, because it adheres to values such as respect, dignity, and self-determination – values that are strongly embedded in the code of ethics for all practitioners. The client-social worker relationship has long been celebrated. The profession is highly regarded for challenging the inhumane treatment of vulnerable people, its commitment to challenge anti-oppressive practice, and most importantly, ensuring that vulnerable people are given a voice!