75th International Human Rights Day
the Universal declaration of human rights
December 10, 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of one of the world's most groundbreaking global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This landmark document enshrines the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.
The Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on December 10, 1948 and sets out - for the first time - fundamental human rights to be universally protected through 30 Articles of Declaration. Available in more than 500 languages, the UDHR is the most translated document in the world.
2023 theme: dignity, freedom, and justice for all
To help celebrate the 75th anniversary of the UDHR, the Town of Hamilton Human Rights Commission, Town of Wenham Human Rights Committee, First Church in Wenham, and Hamilton-Wenham Human Rights Coalition are issuing a Call for Submissions. We invite community members of ALL AGES to reflect on this year’s theme of Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All.
What do these words mean to you? How do human rights impact your generation - past, present, and future? Did you participate in a memorable event, protest, or campaign? Share YOUR story!
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Who: Everyone!
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What: Essay (250 word max), Poetry, Artwork, or Multimedia (5 minute limit)
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How: Submit entries or schedule artwork delivery via email to info@hwhumanrights.org
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When: DECEMBER 1 (SUBMISSION DEADLINE)
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Where: All entries will be displayed at the UDHR 75th Anniversary Celebration on December 9 at the HW Public Library (see below) and hosted online by HWHRC
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BONUS: Awards will be given for best Adult, High School, and Middle School submissions by age group. Judging to be done by blind panel based on common rubric.
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ALL Elementary School submissions will receive a participation prize!
Local events
In addition to the Community Call for Submissions, there will be two local events on December 8 and 9 to help celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the UDHR.
Friday, December 8
Film Screening: He Named Me Malala
PG-13
First Church in Wenham
(1 Arbor Street, Wenham)
7:00pm
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Sweets available for purchase from Treat Cakes & Confections
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Coffee, Tea, and Hot Cocoa provided FREE by First Church in Wenham
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BYO snacks also welcome and encouraged
Saturday, December 9
UDHR 75th Anniversary Celebration
Hamilton-Wenham Public Library
(14 Union Street, Hamilton)
10:30am to 2:30pm
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Showcase of North Shore organizations working on human rights issues
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Actress portrayal of Eleanor Roosevelt and her instrumental role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
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A live reading of the 30 Articles of Declaration of the UDHR
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Viewing and Awards for Community Call for Submissions: What do Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All mean to you?
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Musical Entertainment
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Arts & Crafts
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Refreshments
high school community service hours
Are you a local high school student looking for Community Service Hours required for graduation? Good news! There are several different times and ways you can volunteer to support our International Human Rights Day Celebration. Check out the Sign-Up Genius below!
Learn More
International Human Rights Day is recognized around the world every December, and each year The United Nations (UN) announces a specific theme and a variety of initiatives to explore and celebrate the annual theme in greater detail. Year-round, the UN publishes a wealth of information and teaching resources about the UDHR, as well as other programs, diplomatic efforts, and UN initiatives in support of universal human rights. To learn more about any of these resources, we encourage you to visit the pages below:
75th UDHR Anniversary Resources
Universal Declaration of Human Rights