Human Rights Day is observed globally on December 10, in recognition of the United Nations General Assembly’s proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948.

The UDHR outlines the fundamental rights of all humans – including equality, life, freedom, and security – regardless of religion, language, gender, race, colour, opinion, property, or status.

Ways to Participate in Human Rights Day

Learning about human rights helps empower us to advocate for our rights and the rights of others.

For Human Rights Day 2024, the United Nations’ theme is Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now. The theme speaks to the everyday importance and relevance of human rights in our lives, acknowledging that we must do our part to speak up against hateful speech, correct misinformation, and counter disinformation. Together, we can mobilize global efforts towards a better, more equitable future for all.

• Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
• Visit the Government of Canada’s website
• Learn about Canada’s contributions to drafting the UDHR
• Explore more about the UN’s Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now campaign
• Visit a UN online photo exhibit

Local Events in Celebration of Human Rights Day

Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights on Tuesday, December 10, to enjoy free admission along with special programming and activities. Learn more at humanrights.ca.

Stop by The Forks on Tuesday, December 10, at 1:00 p.m. for a free Art + Human Rights Walking Tour. Hosted in collaboration with CMHR and Synonym Art Consultation, join artists Val Vint, KC Adams, and Jaimie Isaac, to gain insight on how art can share human rights stories, reflect the importance of place, and call for action. Register online at theforks.com.