Letters from an American: December 10, 2024 Episode Summary

Human Rights Day and Historical Context

In the December 10, 2024 episode of Letters from an American, host Heather Cox Richardson commemorates Human Rights Day, an international observance celebrating the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adoption by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. Richardson sets the stage by highlighting the tumultuous global landscape of 1948, a world still reeling from the devastation of World War II and grappling with emerging geopolitical tensions.

At [00:07], Richardson outlines the myriad challenges faced by the world at that time:

"In 1948, the world was still reeling from the death and destruction of World War II, including the horrors of the Holocaust."

She elaborates on the specific geopolitical tensions, including:

• The Soviet Union's blockade of Berlin.
• Communist-backed labor agitation in Italy and France.
• The Greek Civil War.
• Arab opposition to the new state of Israel.
• Communist and Nationalist conflicts in China.
• The rise of segregationist political movements in the United States aimed at undermining civil rights protections for Black Americans.

Formation and Mission of the United Nations

Richardson emphasizes the creation of the United Nations (UN) in 1945, formed by the Allies of World War II along with newly liberated nations like Denmark and Argentina. The UN was established to foster an international order governed by agreed-upon rules rather than sheer power:

"The member countries of the united nations came together to adopt a landmark document, a common standard of fundamental rights for all human beings." ([00:07])

The UN's mission included:

• Reaffirming faith in fundamental human rights.
• Upholding the dignity and worth of every individual.
• Ensuring equal rights for men and women, and for nations regardless of size.

The Commission on Human Rights and Eleanor Roosevelt

In early 1946, the United Nations Economic and Social Council established a nine-person Commission on Human Rights tasked with laying the groundwork for a permanent Human Rights Commission. Notably, the selection of commission members prioritized personal merit over national affiliation. Eleanor Roosevelt, appointed by President Harry S. Truman, was a pivotal figure in this process:

"President Harry S. Truman had appointed Eleanor Roosevelt... as a delegate to the United Nations." ([00:07])

Richardson recounts Eleanor Roosevelt's influential role:

"That first commission asked Roosevelt to take the chair... 'the respect of which is the essential condition of the dignity of the person,'** ([00:07])

Drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Over two years, the commission meticulously drafted the UDHR, culminating in a document that begins with a powerful preamble asserting the necessity of human rights recognition as the foundation for global freedom, justice, and peace. Key objectives included eliminating barbarous acts and promoting freedom of speech, belief, and freedom from fear and want.

Richardson outlines the comprehensive nature of the UDHR's 30 articles, which establish that all humans are inherently free and equal, irrespective of race, color, sex, language, religion, political opinion, national origin, property, birth, or other status. The rights enshrined cover a broad spectrum, including:

• Civil and Political Rights: Freedom from slavery, torture, arbitrary arrest, and the right to a fair trial.
• Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights: Right to work, equal pay, unionizing, adequate standard of living, education, and participation in cultural life.
• Political Rights: Right to participate in government through free and fair elections.

A notable quote from the preamble captures the essence of the UDHR:

"Recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world." ([00:07])

Adoption and Legacy of the UDHR

Despite initial resistance, with eight countries abstaining and none voting against, the UDHR was adopted unanimously. Richardson notes that although the declaration itself was not legally binding, it laid the groundwork for over 80 international treaties and declarations, establishing a legally binding system to protect human rights globally.

She underscores the UDHR's lasting impact:

"The UDHR remains aspirational, but it is a vital part of the rules based order that restrains leaders from human rights abuses..." ([00:07])

Richardson also marks the 40th anniversary of the UN Convention Against Torture, aligning it with the UDHR's structure and reinforcing the ongoing commitment to human rights.

Contemporary US Commitment to Human Rights

Transitioning to present-day applications, Richardson highlights a recent White House proclamation reaffirming the United States' dedication to upholding equal and inalienable rights. Key initiatives under the Biden administration include:

• Establishment of the White House Gender Policy Council to advance women's and girls' rights both domestically and internationally.
• Rejoining the United Nations Human Rights Council to address global human rights issues.
• Protecting LGBTQI rights and expanding accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
• Combating the misuse of commercial spyware by authoritarian regimes to surveil and repress populations.
• Countering transnational repression targeting human rights defenders.

A standout quote from Richardson on these efforts:

"The Biden administration has worked to stop the misuse of commercial spyware, which has enabled human rights abuses around the world..." ([00:07])

Human Rights Defender Award

The episode culminates with accolades bestowed by the State Department to eight distinguished individuals through the Human Rights Defender Award. Recipients hailed from diverse nations, including Kuwait, Bolivia, the Kyrgyz Republic, Burma, Eswatini, Ghana, Colombia, and Azerbaijan. Their courageous efforts focus on defending:

• Migrant workers
• LGBTQ individuals
• Women
• Democratic principles

Richardson poignantly notes the personal sacrifices made by some awardees:

"One recipient's award was delivered in absentia because he is imprisoned. Another award was posthumous. The recipient was murdered last year." ([00:07])

These stories underscore the universal and perilous nature of the fight for human rights, highlighting both global solidarity and individual courage.

Conclusion

Heather Cox Richardson's December 10, 2024 episode of Letters from an American offers a comprehensive reflection on the enduring significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its foundational role in shaping both international norms and contemporary policies. By bridging historical context with current initiatives, Richardson illuminates the ongoing struggle to uphold human dignity and equality worldwide.

Produced at Soundscape Productions, Dedham, Massachusetts, with music composed by Michael Moss.