In honor of International Human Rights Day, we’re reflecting on the 75th anniversary of the UN Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted on December 10, 1948. It’s a day dedicated to promoting and raising awareness about the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every individual—regardless of race, religion, nationality, gender, or any other status. Human trafficking is undeniably a violation of human rights that demands our immediate attention.
The United Nations’ declaration is one of the world’s most groundbreaking pledges. For the first time, it identified the fundamental human rights needed to be universally protected. The declaration is available in 561 languages, making it the most translated document in the world (Source: The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights)!
2023 Theme: Freedom, Equality and Justice for All
A milestone year for human rights activists and changemakers, we’re inspired by the individuals supporting our own state’s anti-trafficking movement. The United Nations calls for action from communities around the world through their 2023 theme, “Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All”. Today, we are sharing with you some of the key principles of the UN Declaration of Human Rights—so that you can take this knowledge to our Colorado communities and make a difference!
These 12 remarkable young people are part of The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights’ Youth Advisory Group. They participated in the design, implementation, and follow-up of Human Rights 75 activities.
1. Every person deserves dignity and equality
The UN Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone is born with equal dignity and rights. It rejects discrimination based on factors like race, color, sex, language, religion, political views, nationality, social background, property, birth, or other status.
2. Every person has fundamental freedoms that must be protected
The declaration lists important freedoms like self-expression, assembly, and association. It acknowledges the right to work, education, and a decent living for good health and well-being.
3. There must be law and accountability
The UN Declaration of Human Rights stresses the importance of the rule of law. It states that everyone has the right to a fair and public trial and the opportunity to seek a proper solution and protection from unjust arrests or detentions.
4. Every individual is deserving of solidarity and global citizenship
The declaration encourages a global spirit of citizenship, urging individuals and nations to treat each other with a sense of unity. It envisions a world where the outlined rights and freedoms are universally upheld and respected.
Meet Former U.S. Ambassador and LCHT Board Member, Gary Grappo
At the Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking, our Amplify campaign was created to inform and inspire individuals to make an impact on ending exploitation in Colorado. In support of this effort, our board member and former U.S. Ambassador to Oman, Gary Grappo, sat down with us to reflect on his involvement in the anti-trafficking movement.
Gary has been involved in public service almost his entire life. He spent eight years in the Air Force as an officer, then left to pursue graduate school and worked in the private sector in a banking and finance career. After a career shift back to the public sector, Gary was assigned a role as an American diplomat working overseas as part of the embassy’s human rights portfolio.
“This crime of human trafficking is not well understood. It’s an invisible crime. It’s a crime in which victims don’t come forward,” Gary shares. “Someone steals your car, you report it. You’re a victim of an assault. You report it. Victims of human trafficking very often don’t know that they are a victim of human trafficking.”
Gary’s service on our Board of Directors ends this year, and we are grateful for his impact. He has consistently upheld LCHT’s core value on human rights, and our work to promote the protection of freedom, dignity, and access to those rights for all people.
Amplify the Movement to End Human Trafficking!
This holiday season, you have the power to amplify anti-trafficking efforts in Colorado. Make a donation today to join changemakers like Gary in supporting survivors and making our communities safer. Your gift will drive change in 2024 through anti-trafficking training, community-based research, the strengthening of Colorado’s 24/7 Human Trafficking Hotline, and the development of future human rights leaders. Help advance human rights!