Human rights are fundamental entitlements which (if respected) should help guarantee our physical, emotional, social, economic, cultural and spiritual wellbeing. Some of our key rights include the right to health, the right to a private life, the right to own property, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of belief, freedom from torture, freedom from arbitrary arrest and many more. These are rights which every human being is entitled to. Yet, how many of us really know what our human rights are? Perhaps you don’t think human rights are relevant to your life – well you’re wrong! We all need to be aware of our rights and stand up for or not just our own human rights but also those of our family members, friends, colleagues, neighbours, associates, communities and anyone in need.
Here’s 12 quotes from famous/significant figures (good and bad!) which illustrate just why we need to be aware of our human rights!
1. Knowledge is the gateway to power!
2. Sometimes we’re not always taught what’s right
3. You may not be aware that your rights are being abused
4. You may have been taught to accept human rights abuses
5. Education opens doors and allows you to think objectively
6. Once you learn your rights you’ll realise that rights can easily be abused
7. But you need to know how to protect your rights
8. If you know, you can start demanding them!
9. By learning about your rights, you are ultimately safeguarding yourself
10. You’ll also learn how to build peace with others
11. You’ll recognise both your rights and those of your neighbours
12. Armed with knowledge you can march on and make a real difference!
Dedication
This post is dedicated to the memory of Christopher William John Plant (d. 2017) – an inspiration to many and proof that one person with enough passion, will and dedication really can make a difference. You will be greatly missed forever more. May your spirit, energy and enthusiasm live on in all of us and may we make you proud, ameen.
Credits
Featured image: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Josh Estey, 2009 (CC)
Photos from Flickr – please visit for content licences
Editing and design: Elizabeth Arif-Fear
Voice of Salam 