3/20/2025

This is the final article about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Please note you can find more information about this document, at the following website: Universal Declaration of Human Rights | United Nations.

The focus of this document is on defining and ensuring fundamental human rights. We are fortunate to live in the United States where our constitution itself ensures human rights. Sometimes we take these human rights for granted so in changing times it is nice to be reminded of the accepted framework to define human rights. I encourage you to review the last ten Articles through the lens of your community, however you define your community.

In general the last set of Articles focus on how we function within the systems created to meet the needs of all people, to include participation in government, social structures, employment, housing, medical care, education and culture.  In my observation, the current political divisions in our country may jeopardize these last ten Articles. 

For example, Article 21 addresses the importance of elections and our right to participate in the process but political divisions have resulted in fear, frustration and divisive policies that do not encourage participation leaving some members of our community unrepresented.  What are the outcomes if members of the community are excluded or voluntarily do not participate?  Does this negatively impact your community?

Articles 22, Article 23, Article 25, and Article 26 discuss issues related to how we participate in our community. Note, ‘community’ is not defined by the document but is defined by the reader. In your community does everyone have access to social supports provided at the federal, state and local level?  Does everyone have access to employment opportunities, without discrimination?  

Articles 25 highlights the right to adequate health and well-being.  In most communities in the United States this is linked to the Article 22 social supports and most recently highlighted in the discussion around cuts to our Social Security and Medicaid systems. If cuts are made, can we still meet the needs of people related to health and well-being in your community

Article 24 and Article 27 are focused on rest, leisure, culture and initiative or invention. Traditionally, people in the United States prioritize work but more recently some people have shifted to creating a work-life balance.  In your community are people welcome to participate in community events that highlight culture, art or rest? These are critical activities related to mental health and can contribute to physical and emotional well-being.

Finally, Article 29 embodies our responsibility to participate in the community, to help others secure their rights and to respect the rights of others. All too often we want rights but we forget the responsibility to participate in the process in order to get and keep those rights. Please consider taking a leadership role in your community or participating in community change meetings to ensure that all people and perspectives are involved in the decision-making that impacts everyone.