Human Rights Day: The Cornerstone of Human Dignity

By  Fr Wenceslaus Wangila CMM of Diocese of Mthatha – As we come together to observe Human Rights Day, a moment to reflect on the principles that unite us in dignity and equality. This day reminds us not only of the rights inherent to every human being but also of the duties that accompany these rights and the need for reconciliation in our societies.

Rights are the cornerstone of human dignity. They affirm that every individual, regardless of race, gender, nationality, or background, deserves respect, freedom, and justice. The right to life, freedom of speech, education, health care, and equality before the law are not privileges—they are fundamental and universal. These rights ensure that we can live with the freedom to pursue our dreams, express ourselves, and contribute meaningfully to society.

However, with rights come duties. As much as we are entitled to these freedoms, we are also called to honour our responsibilities to others. Our duties include respecting the rights of others, fostering peace, and standing against discrimination or injustice. Being part of a community means actively promoting the well-being of those around us, not just claiming our own rights but also safeguarding those of our neighbours.

On this Human Rights Day, let us also reflect on the power of reconciliation. History teaches us that rights violations often stem from division, prejudice, and unresolved conflicts. Reconciliation is the bridge that mends these divides and fosters unity. It requires humility, forgiveness, and a commitment to healing—not just for individuals but for nations.

As we celebrate today, let us honour those who have fought for human rights, let us take up our duties to create a better world, and let us embrace reconciliation to build relationships founded on respect and understanding.

May we continue striving for a world where dignity and equality prevail.

CHURCH TEACHING

The Catholic Church has a rich tradition of teachings on human rights, rooted in the dignity of the human person as created in the image of God. These teachings are often expressed through **Catholic Social Teaching (CST)** which emphasises the protection and promotion of human rights as essential to building a just and moral society. Here are some key principles and situations where the Church addresses human rights:

1. The Right to Life and Dignity

The Church teaches that every human being has an inherent right to life and dignity, from conception to natural death. This is foundational to all other rights. For example:

–           Pope St. John Paul Il, in his encyclical Evangelium Vitae, strongly defended the right to life, condemning practices like abortion and euthanasia as violations of human dignity.

–           The Church also advocates for the protection of vulnerable groups, such as the unborn, the elderly, and the disabled.

2. Economic and Social Rights

The Church recognises the right to work, fair wages, and decent living conditions. In the encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891), Pope Leo Xlll emphasised the rights of workers and the importance of labour unions to protect these rights. The Church continues to advocate for economic justice and the eradication of poverty.

3. Religious Freedom

The Second Vatican Council’s declaration *Dignitatis Humanae* affirmed the right of every person to religious freedom. The Church teaches that individuals must be free to follow their conscience and worship according to their beliefs without coercion.

4. The Right to Education

The Church supports the right to education as a means of personal and societal development. Catholic schools and universities around the world are a testament to the Church’s commitment to providing quality education to all, especially the marginalised.

5. Advocacy for Justice and Peace

The Church actively speaks out against human rights abuses, such as discrimination, human trafficking, and unjust wars. For example:

–           Pope Francis has been a vocal advocate for the rights of migrants and refugees, calling for their protection and humane treatment.

–           The Church also supports reconciliation efforts in post-conflict situations, emphasising forgiveness and healing.

6. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The Church has expressed support for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Pope St. John Paul Il called it “a true milestone on the path of humanity’s moral progress,” recognising its alignment with many Catholic principles.

7. Responsibilities Alongside Rights

The Church teaches that rights come with corresponding responsibilities. For example, while individuals have the right to freedom, they also have a duty to respect the rights of others and contribute to the common good.

These teachings are not just theoretical but are lived out in various ways, such as through Catholic charities, advocacy groups, and pastoral care. The Church’s commitment to human rights is deeply intertwined with its mission to proclaim the Gospel and serve humanity.

BIBLICAL QUOTES

• Galatians 3:28

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”This stresses equality and unity, affirming the worth of every person regardless of status or identity.

• Genesis 1:27
• Deuteronomy 10:18-19
• Psalm 82:3-4
• Proverbs 31:8-9
• Isaiah 1:17
• Micah
• Matthew 7:12
• Luke 4:18
• Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 153 -159.
• Pope St John XXIII, in his encyclical, Pacem in Terris.
• Pope St Paul VI, OctogesimaAdveniens.
• St John Paul Il, Centisumus Annus, 22.
• St John Paul Il, truth.” (Evangelium Vitae, 5, 19)
• St John Paul Il, Evangelii Gaudium, 213.
• St John XXIII Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth) (1963)
• Leo Xlll, Rerum Novarum (On the Condition of Labor) -(1891)
• Gaudium et Spes (Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World) – Vatican Il (1965).This document explores the Church’s role in promoting justice, peace, and human dignity in the modern world.