About this WebsiteThe Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute has established this site on behalf of the millions of people in the United States and throughout the world who share our commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms. The site was conceived as a service to the human rights community and to the general public. Our hope is that on the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we might amplify the spirit of optimism and innovation that guided both Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt in their work for peace, freedom and human rights. This initiative has been advanced under the leadership of the Roosevelt Institute’s Board of Directors and its chairperson, Ambassador William J. vanden Heuvel, who also chairs the National Coordinating Committee for UDHR50. A former U.S. Deputy Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador vanden Heuvel’s commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms is known and respected throughout the world. The project was undertaken through a collaborative process that involved important contributions from both individuals and institutions. Special thanks to the Ford Foundation for the early leadership that made this collaboration possible and to the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation for additional support and confidence. Our close partners in this collaboration were the people at "Human Rights USA" (a coalition of human rights educators and activists). This group is responsible for three key sections of the website, the "Education," "Library" and "Related Links" components. The content in the "History" section enjoyed the advice and review of a number of highly respected historians, legal scholars and human rights experts including Allida Black, Joan Fitzpatrick, Margaret Galey, Glen Johnson, William Korey, Bertie Ramcharan, John Sears, Louis Sohn and Felice Gaer. The implementation of the site (and of the UDHR50 campaign) would not have been possible without the support of the United Nations Association of the USA. In providing office space, logistical support and substantive engagement, UNA has demonstrated a continued commitment to this campaign. Videotex Development Corp. hosts the site and is responsible for web development. Nick Law established the 50th anniversary logo and the site’s graphic design. William Ayton is the artist who illuminated the thirty articles of the UDHR as seen in the History section. A grateful acknowledgment is extended to the FDR Library and the UN Archives for assistance with source documents and photographs. Global Education Associates provided a human rights timeline that inspired the one on this site. Finally, at the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute, Executive Director, John Sears, kept the project focused and forward looking. Lena Mokvist, Isaac Flattau and Tom Thurston all made crucial contributions. Like all good web sites, this one is "under construction." Throughout the 50th anniversary year and beyond, we will work diligently to make this site an important resource for the advancement of human rights and fundamental freedoms for everyone - everywhere. Michael Cooper |