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| If there were more
human rights defenders in today's world, the human rights
of more people could be secured. One way to interest
people in becoming human rights defenders is to draw
attention to the accomplishments of human rights
defenders. Your city or state Human Rights Commission may
consider honoring one or more human rights defenders,
either from the area or from abroad, this year. An award
ceremony would generate media coverage and, therefore,
public interest. Begin by calling the office of your mayor or governor (the number should be available from an information operator), and ask if your city or state has a Human Rights Commission. If it does not have one, suggest that one be established. You may want to follow up the call with a letter, suggesting that 1998, Human Rights Year, would be an especially appropriate time to establish a Human Rights Commission. If your city or state already has a Human Rights Commission, suggest that it institute an annual award honoring the work of a human rights defender. Another way to promote awards for human rights defenders is to join in the YWCA's national "Human Rights Heroes Campaign." Through its local chapters, the YWCA will identify and honor women activists working to empower women, eliminate racism, and promote human rights. For more information about this campaign, contact the YWCA nearest you. National Coordinating Committee for
UDHR50. |