Human Rights Day, 2006

December 10, 2006

Today we celebrate the 58th anniversary of Human Rights Day.

On this important day for mankind, the Church of Scientology International renews its commitment to strive to make human rights a reality for all, regardless of nationality, social status, race, color or creed.

On December 10, 1948 the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Today we pay tribute to those who created this historic instrument to ensure that the tragedies and horrors of the Second World War would no longer be tolerated.

The Declaration is designed to foster respect for fundamental rights and freedoms and pays homage to the universality, individisibility, and interdependence of human rights — rights that stop at no borders and apply to every man, woman and child on earth. The right to life, food, shelter, access to medical care, education, expression, association and freedom of religious belief must be guaranteed.

The Universal Declaration stands for the best in humanity. Men and women everywhere who bring hope and help to their fellows by small acts of kindness or selfless acts of bravery; caring for their families and communities or providing relief in times of disaster or war, and insisting on the rights of those who are oppressed no matter the personal risk — these are the people we honor today.

Human Rights Day is a time for all individuals and organizations to redouble their efforts in the struggle for human rights.

Scientology churches are dedicated to the fight for human rights, and will continue to strive – through activities, programs, events and publications – to accomplish the full implementation of the Universal Declaration.

We will not cease these efforts until human rights are achieved and enjoyed by all.

Human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream.
— L. Ron Hubbard