Saturday, December 2, 2006

Human Rights Day 2006 Denounce Torture Initiative

Celebrate International Human Rights Day by standing up for the America we can all believe in.

In a few weeks, we recognize a significant day for human rights. December 10 marks the date the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was unanimously adopted by the United Nations in 1948.

This year, we are trying to do something we have never done before -- mobilize half a million people to take action. Our goal is to gather 500,000 signatures on the “America I Believe In” pledge by June 2007. This will send a clear message to our elected officials that the America we believe in leads the world on human rights. The White House and Congress must hear from grassroots activists in great numbers that we refuse to tolerate our nation’s effort to undermine our vision of human rights. We can create the political change we wish to see.

Gathering pledge signatures is just one of three ways you can get involved this December 10. We have designed three levels of engagement. Each level has actions, activity ideas and useful fact sheets to help you promote International Human Rights Day. However you decide to participate, make sure to sign up to stay connected by completing the form below.

Also, check out our media tools. Use them to reach out to your community or student newspapers (you'll need a members-area password to access this document) around Human Rights Day, December 10, 2006 »

Level 1 (for the busy activist)

Sign the pledge and take action. If you have already signed the pledge, tell 5 friends about the pledge. Take a stand in supporting the closure of Guantanamo » (Download printer-friendly version of the pledge)

Level 2

Create your own video. Send us a 5-10 second video in your own words as to why the America You Believe In would close Guantanamo . You can sign, dance or simply speak your message of a vision you want to see. Video clips will be highlighted on January 11, marking the 5th anniversary of when detainees were first transferred to Guantanamo. If videos are not your style, send us your picture with your 'close Guantanamo' message.

Level 3

Have a human rights birthday party! The UDHR is turning 58; help commemorate the birth of the modern human rights movement by hosting a human rights birthday party. When you sign up below, you will receive an info packet with a fact sheet on the role the US played in ensuring international standards for due process and rule of law. Buy a birthday cake and don candles sharing with your partygoers. Sign the UDHR birthday card and send it to your Member of Congress and your Senators reminding them of the historic role this nation played in helping to shape human rights. This is a great educational opportunity providing your group with a starting point for discussing human rights concerns. Sign up here to receive additional info by clicking below:

Source: Human Rights Day 2006 Denounce Torture Initiative

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