The League of Iowa Human & Civil Rights Agencies

SIOUX CITY -- On December 10, the world will celebrate International Human Rights Day. Sixty-one years ago nations from across the world came together to proclaim that every individual, no matter where he or she lives, has fundamental rights that deserve protection. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights includes, among others, the right to be free from racial discrimination, the right to think and write what you choose, and the right to fair working conditions.

Today many Americans think that a human rights campaign means writing letters to a faraway land, rather than working to protect our own fundamental rights, and that of our fellow Americans.The truth is that many of us have been working to promote and protect human rights for years, in our community. At the Sioux City Human Rights Commission, we investigate allegations of discrimination in housing, employment, public accommodation, education, and credit in our local community. Also we consistently reach out and educate the community on issues related to diversity. These efforts do not stand alone; in fact they are part of a growing national movement to bring human rights home.

International Human Rights Day is an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to further the goal of equality and fairness for all people in Sioux City, America, and the world.

We ask you take a moment on December 10 to consider the importance of human rights to your country, your city, and your neighborhood. Please join us in the celebration of International Human Rights Day. -- Karen Mackey

From: Sioux City Journal