Presidential Proclamation -- Human Rights Day and Human Rights Week, 2013
And the following is proclamation signed by the President today regarding Human Rights Day and Human Rights Week, 2013:
Six and a half decades ago, delegates from around the world
convened to adopt the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,
rejecting the notion that individual aspirations should be
subject to the whims of tyrants and empires, and affirming every
person's right to liberty, equality, and justice under the law.
On Human Rights Day and during Human Rights Week, we resolve not
only to celebrate these ideals but also to advance them in our
time.
Humanity thrives because of our differences; the exchange
of ideas among vibrant cultures is a source of innovation,
beauty, and vitality. Yet across the globe, our common and
inalienable rights bind us as one. All women and men -- across
borders and regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation,
gender identity, or income level -- share the freedoms of
expression, religion, assembly, and association. We all have
the right to take part in government, directly or through freely
elected representatives. And as societies, we have the right to
choose our own destiny.
But in many parts of the world, people are still persecuted
for their beliefs, imprisoned for their ideals, and punished for
their convictions. A growing number of countries are passing
laws designed to stifle civil society -- including organizations
that promote universal human rights, support good governance,
and bolster economic development. Securing freedoms that are
threatened or denied will require an unceasing commitment.
Today and always, let us break down prejudice, amplify the
courageous voices that sound the call for change, and reaffirm
our unwavering support for the principles enshrined in the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in
me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do
hereby proclaim December 10, 2013, as Human Rights Day and the
week beginning December 10, 2013, as Human Rights Week. I call
upon the people of the United States to mark these observances
with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
ninth day of December, in the year of our Lord
two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-eighth.