Where, after all, do universal rights begin? In small places, close to home – so close and so small they cannot be seen on any maps of the world.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Universal Rights
Theme: A Vision of America
“Where, after all, do universal rights begin? In small places, close to home – so close and so small they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. Yet they are the world of the individual persons; the neighborhoods; the school or college; the factory, farm or office. Such are the places where every man, woman and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity without discrimination. Unless their rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere. Without concerned citizen action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world.”
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, born on October 11, 1884, and passing away on November 7, 1962, was a significant American political figure, diplomat, and activist. Her service as the First Lady of the United States from March 1933 to April 1945, alongside her husband President Franklin D. Roosevelt during his four terms in office, marked her as the longest-serving First Lady of the United States. Her tenure as First Lady was just the beginning of a long and impactful career in public service, showcasing her commitment to various social and political causes.
Following her role as First Lady, Roosevelt transitioned into a diplomatic position, serving as the United States Delegate to the United Nations General Assembly from 1945 to 1952. This role significantly contributed to her reputation as a dedicated advocate for human rights. Her work in promoting human rights on an international stage was groundbreaking, bringing attention to issues that were often overlooked, and working towards creating a world where human rights were recognized and protected.
Eleanor Roosevelt's legacy is marked by her dedication to human rights, her service to her country, and her continuous advocacy for the marginalized and oppressed. Her efforts in the realm of human rights were acknowledged by President Harry S. Truman, who honored her with the title "First Lady of the World." This title not only pays tribute to her achievements in the realm of human rights but also recognizes the lasting impact she had on both national and international platforms. Through her life’s work, Roosevelt set a lasting standard for public service and remains a notable figure in American history.
Speech to United Nations delegates
Wilson, Andrew, editor. World Scripture II. Universal Peace Federation, 2011, p. 981 [Eleanor Roosevelt].
Eleanor Roosevelt
Theme: A Vision of America
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Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt, former first lady of the United States and wife of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was a human rights activist who, as an American delegate to the United Nations in 1948, played a central role in shaping the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The real challenge, she liked to tell United Nations delegates in later years, was one of ”actually living and working in our countries for freedom and justice for each human being.”
–Richard N. Gardner [Eleanor Roosevelt’s Legacy: Human Rights (Published: December 10, 1988 in the New York Times)].