International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims seeks to honor the memories of the victims of gross human rights violations. This day aims to highlight truth and justice as human rights. It hopes to promote these rights and recognize those who have stepped up to defend them.

International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims was established in 2010 by the UN General Assembly. It is observed annually on March 24th. This date honors the memory of human rights activist Oscar Arnulfo Romero who was murdered on March 24th, 1980 after denouncing human right violations.

Facts about this day

• March 24th serves as tribute to the memory of El Salvadorian Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero. Romero was assassinated on March 24th, 1980 after denouncing human right violations against vulnerable populations. He tried to preach human dignity and to speak out against all forms of violence.
  
• According to the UN, the right to the truth about human rights violations is an inalienable and autonomous right. As such, this right must be protected and guaranteed by individual nations. It is up to each nation to conduct effective investigations and to guarantee effective solutions and reparations.
• The truth is an empowering and healing force. We embrace it for the past, the present and the future - UN Secretary General António Guterres

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

Top things to do in the US for this observance

• Read the UN's resolution to implement effective practices to promote the right to truth https://undocs.org/A/HRC/12/19
• Donate to reputable charities or organizations that help promote truth like the Equal Justice Iniative.
• Watch a movie highlighting the importance of truth and justice. Here are our suggestions:
  The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)
  Just Mercy (2019)
  The Hunt (2012)