December 10th is Human Rights Day

Unitarian Universalist first principle states: We believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10— the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights.” The preamble begins with:

“Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world,”

That was 1948. A few years after WWII ended.

Why am I writing this? It is personal. Our daughter was born on December 10. My wife, Hetty, carried the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in her purse all her life. She was a strong supporter of the United Nations, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the Unitarian Universalist Association Office at the United Nations and humanitarian causes. She lived these causes.

Reading these words again strengthens my belief in the possibility of goodness. I have a card that reminds me every day: Never underestimate what you can do to make the world a better place.

Yes, the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

Hans Francke, Board Membe