Contents
- What is Human Rights Day?
- Why do we celebrate Human Rights Day?
- What is the theme for Human Rights Day 2021?
- How can I mark Human Rights Day 2021 with my kids?
As parents, talking to kids about the importance of protecting the rights of all human beings across the world is key. Ahead of the international Human Rights Day on 10th December, let’s take a look at the history behind it and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights! 
What is Human Rights Day?
Human Rights Day is celebrated around the world on the 10th of December annually, with a different theme for each year. It’s observed on this date because the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10th of December 1948.
After World War II, the international community was eager to make the protection of human rights a priority across the globe. In 1945, the United Nations was founded with the aim of promoting peace internationally and protecting the rights of all human beings. Representatives from over 50 countries contributed to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 📜
The UDHR puts forth a wide range of fundamental rights and freedoms all human beings are entitled to, guaranteeing the rights of everyone across the globe. The UDHR has had a huge impact on the international community and human rights – in fact, it’s the most translated document in the world and is available in over 500 languages.
Why do we celebrate Human Rights Day?
Though much progress has been made since the Declaration of Human Rights was first put forth over 70 years ago, there’s still a lot of work to do to ensure the protection of human rights across the globe. 🌍
There is a great need for identifying issues and finding solutions for inequality and discrimination that affects the most vulnerable people in society. Human Rights Day gives the international community the chance to take stock of the developments in human rights and look at what the key areas of focus should be.
A wide range of issues have been and continue to be highlighted for Human Rights Day, from the most fundamental human needs like food, shelter and water to education rights for girls and women to the ability to access uncensored information.
Every year, Human Rights Day sees a range of events, talks and conferences around the globe which are all focused on ensuring the basic human rights of all people and protecting them from discrimination, no matter their nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexuality, political beliefs and more.
What is the theme for Human Rights Day 2021?
The theme for Human Rights Day 2021 is Equality. This relates to the fundamental Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which is “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”
Focusing on the principles of equality, non-discrimination and inclusion is key to reducing inequality in the international community, and is very much aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
How can I mark Human Rights Day 2021 with my kids?
Observing Human Rights Day 2021 with your kids is a great idea, and there are several activities you can do with your children to mark this day.
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Talk to them
A great way to introduce your kids to the concept of human rights is to talk to your kids in an age-appropriate way about the inequality, injustice and discrimation many people across the world face today. You can encourage them to be part of the solution by doing their part to support the fight for human rights across the globe in small ways, within your own community. If your child is interested in activism and social justice, we’ve got some books to recommend.
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Get the word out there
Not everyone is aware of Human Rights Day or take the time to understand why it’s an important day to observe – and there’s a lot you can do with your kids to raise awareness in small ways. You can help your kids make posters about human rights, or you could even make a TikTok video with them – who knows, it might go viral and inspire others to get involved! 📱
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Volunteer time or donate money
On Human Rights Day, it’s a great idea to volunteer your time to support a local initiative supporting human rights, or donating money to a relevant cause or charity. Picking a good cause with your child’s input is a great way to make them feel involved, and they may even want to donate some of their pocket money. 💰
Human Rights Day is an important day of observance, giving us the chance to look at some of the key issues that must be dealt with in order to achieve a more equal world in which each person’s human rights are protected. Marking this day with your kids is a great way to get them involved in this important social responsibility from an early age.
