International Human Rights Day

When Anne Frank expressed her personal thoughts and experiences while in hiding during the Second World War, she had no idea that her words would still resonate more than 60 years later.

On International Human Rights Day, Nova Scotians will have the opportunity to consider what they might say to Anne Frank, if she were here today.

Partners Against Racism (PAR) will host its annual International Human Rights Day event on Sunday, Dec. 10. This year's theme, Expressions of Hope: A Message to Anne Frank, will use music, spoken word and group activities to celebrate how others have also helped counter and overcome discrimination.

In addition to the activities and performances, visitors can write a message to Anne Frank and reflect on the importance of human rights after touring the Anne Frank in the World exhibit. Messages will be posted in the museum for the day, and then compiled and sent to the Anne Frank Center in Amsterdam.

"The Anne Frank exhibit was a strong fit for the International Human Rights Day event," said Michael Noonan, acting director and CEO for the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. "It is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting human rights for everyone and the message of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which we are celebrating."

International Human Rights Day events are held around the world in celebration of the date the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1947.

"This year's event will be different than events in the past," said Sandra Smith Muir, co-chair of the Partner's Against Racism committee. "We have set up a number of activities that focus on getting people to really think about human rights and how they contribute to achieving a better future."

The Human Rights Award will be presented to Hetty Van Gurp at the event. In addition to being an author and educator, Ms. Van Gurp founded Peaceful Schools International, which helps schools create and maintain a culture of peace. The organization now has 200 member schools worldwide.

"Ms. Van Gurp is an excellent role model for youth," said Ms. Smith Muir. "She has worked tirelessly to ensure that youth around the world feel safe, and that their rights as individuals are protected and respected."

The PAR International Human Rights Day celebration will be held on Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History, 1747 Summer St., Halifax. People are also encouraged to visit the Anne Frank in the World 1929-1945 exhibit.

The travelling display, presented by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and a number of public and private sponsors, was developed by the Anne Frank Foundation in Amsterdam and sponsored in the United States and Canada by the New York based Anne Frank Center USA, Inc.