Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day is celebrated every year on December 10 — the day on which the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

The Declaration states that each person is entitled to fundamental rights, including the right to equality, and the right to life, liberty and security of the person. It also recognizes the right to freedom of religion and speech and the right to participate in the cultural life of the community.

How can I take part in Human Rights Day?

Learning about human rights helps to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes that empower us to stand up for our rights as well as those of others.

Here are suggestions for simple activities to get involved:

• Visit the United Nations Human Rights Day website.
• Watch a film from the Human Rights Playlist curated by the National Film Board of Canada.
• Learn more about the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
• Discover the history of human rights in Canada through the Canada History Week digital magazines (2017 and 2019 editions).
• Explore the Canadian Museum for Human Rights’ Story Collection.
• Learn about significant human rights milestones from the Canadian Human Rights Commission.
• Download the illustrated version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and share it with family.
• Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action (PDF version, 299 KB) and choose one that you will act on.
• Share any of the links provided above with your social networks.