On  December 10, we observe International Human Rights Day, commemorating  the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The declaration, adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1948, was the world’s response to the atrocities of the Holocaust. It recognizes that every person deserves equal moral consideration, that we are all members of one human family, and that human rights are universal.

The theme for this year’s International Human Rights Day is Equality: Reducing Inequalities, Advancing Human Rights.

To achieve the goals of this year’s theme, it is essential to know and understand your rights – which are based the shared values of equality, dignity, and respect. Our human rights connect us as people and, when understood, help us create a better, more just and equitable society.

It is equally essential to understand that human rights come with corresponding responsibilities. A person’s ability to enjoy their rights depends on others respecting those rights. This means that human rights involve responsibilities and duties towards others, as well as the community. We each have a responsibility to:

• ensure that we exercise our rights with consideration of others,
• not abuse the rights of others, and
• uphold the rights of others.

Targeted individuals and groups must not be left to shoulder the burden alone. As members of a community, and of one human family, we must stand up, speak out, and find solutions for deep-rooted forms of discrimination that have affected the most vulnerable people in our society for far too long.

Eliminating discrimination and advancing human rights in Saskatchewan begins with you. Each of us has the power to effect positive change, and everyone should try.