December 10 Is Human Rights Day
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948 after reflection upon, and in response to, the atrocities of World War II.
A milestone document, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), was drafted by representatives of different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world outlining a common goal for all people and nations. It has been translated into more than 500 languages. After 20 years of practicing law – I can't help but marvel at this accomplishment.
The United Nations (U.N.) committee that drafted the document was chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt. The resolution was adopted by a majority of 48 countries from among the 58 members of the U.N. at that time. Eight countries abstained and two did not vote.
The UDHR serves as a global standard for human rights, emphasizing the inherent dignity and equal and inalienable rights of every individual on the planet. The declaration encompasses a wide range of civil, economic, social, and cultural rights, including the right to life, liberty, and security, and the right to education and work. Its importance lies in its universal applicability and its role in promoting peace, justice, and human dignity worldwide.
The UDHR was a landmark document at its time, and we can see its effects right here at EvergreenHealth. It states that "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights" and that those dignity and rights should be provided without regard to "race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status." These concepts, and many others in the UDHR, are instilled in our culture at EvergreenHealth and are reflected in our organizational values of compassion, respect, excellence, collaboration, and accountability.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is not long and yet it covers the full human experience. I encourage you to read it. Humans are always evolving and changes in the world present new and different challenges. A foundation like the UDHR provides a stable platform from which to carry on.
