Between all of the national and global observances, it can seem like every day is some sort of holiday. In the month of December alone, there are 16 month-long observances and 14 religious holidays (not to mention days like Answer The Telephone Like Buddy The Elf Day on December 18). But one of the lesser known December observances worth knowing about is Universal Human Rights Month.
What is Universal Human Rights Month?
Universal Human Rights Month dates back to December 10, 1948, when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was created by the United Nations General Assembly. The Declaration enshrines the rights and freedoms of all human beings, stating:
“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”
This milestone document lays out the fundamental human rights to be universally protected. It has been translated into over 500 languages and has paved the way for the adoption of more than seventy human rights treaties at both global and regional levels.
Fair Housing as a Human Right
At the Fair Housing Center for Rights & Research, we wholeheartedly believe that housing is a human right. In order for housing to be treated as a human right, it must be fair and equitable. This idea is supported throughout the UDHR, too. The document outlines the right to equal protection under the law, and freedom from discrimination. In addition, the UDHR notes the right to freedom of movement and residence within each state, the right to property, and the right to housing. Article 25 states:
“Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.”
At its core, fair housing work honors the belief that housing is a human right. It means working to dismantle barriers to housing, so that all people — regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, family status, or disability — can enjoy the right to safe and equitable housing.
How can you observe Universal Human Rights Month?
You are encouraged to observe Universal Human Rights Month by finding common ground with those around you, celebrating diversity, and working to ensure that all people are entitled to the same unalienable rights. Commit to learning how systemic racism and white supremacy impact our communities, access to resources, and opportunities. Get involved with organizations in your community that work to protect and defend human rights. Whether that means donating your time, money, or volunteering in another way, there are so many ways to support the rights of all people. It’s up to you to decide how you’ll make a difference.
If you would like to make a donation to support the work of the Fair Housing Center for Rights & Research, please visit https://thehousingcenter.org/give. Thank you for your support!