HISTORY

December recognizes National Human Rights Month. This month and every month to follow, everyone in the United States is encouraged to come together and stand up for equality, justice, and the dignity of all humans all ages. Millions of older people suffer human rights violations every year, ranging from discrimination and social and political exclusion, to abuses in nursing facilities, neglect in humanitarian settings, and denial and rationing of health care. December is a time to honor the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, an international document stating the fundamental rights and freedoms to which all human beings regardless of age, race, etc are entitled. These rights include freedom from discrimination, the right to equality, and the right to be considered innocent until proven guilty.

The UDHR was the first international document that spelled out the “basic civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights that all human beings should enjoy.” The declaration was ratified without opposition by the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1948.

RESPECT-Governments must not deprive people of a right or interfere with persons exercising their rights.

PROTECT-Governments must prevent private actors from violating the human rights of others.

FULFILL-Governments must take positive action to facilitate the enjoyment of basic human rights.