JAKARTA - Indonesia was the overseas starting point for this year’s ongoing Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) World Tour. Continuing the tradition established by YHRI’s World Tours of 2004, 2005 and 2006, President Mary Shuttleworth presented YHRI’s human rights educational programs to youth and adults in Indonesia last week. She will travel to at least 10 countries on this 2007 tour, presenting YHRI’s programs to people of every social rank and situation, from heads of state to parent-teacher groups to children in foster homes and orphanages.
Indonesia has just ratified the two United Nations Covenants on Rights, making them human rights law in that country. As in other countries, interest in human rights there is skyrocketing, and contacts have now been made in New Guinea to get the YHRI materials translated into the local language. A member of the Indonesian Parliament made the point that values are universal, whether they come from one’s ancestors or the United Nations. After being introduced to YHRI’s program, government officials now plan to discuss ways the YHRI program can fit in with existing youth programs.
While in Indonesia, the YHRI team visited Tangarang Boys Prison on the outskirts of Jakarta. They were met there by a large party of officials and dignitaries, including Youth for Human Rights Indonesia Founder Mrs. Cely Hamid Awaludin, wife of the Minister of Law and Human Rights, and Mrs. Mardjaman, wife of the Director General of Corrections. The team who run a “Smarthouse” project for the prison were also present at the event, which was attended by approximately 100 prisoners, warders and dignitaries. The event was a showcase for YHRI and for its educational program. Mary Shuttleworth delivered a lesson on Human Rights, and inmates sang songs and colored in world maps.
The Panti Sosial Anak Hairun Nissa Orphanage was another of YHRI’s stops in Indonesia, where Mary Shuttleworth delivered a talk to 72 children and six staff. The immediate response of children and adults to the basic truths embodied in YHRI’s educational program is universal. The YHRI group also visited the Indo Pos Television Studio to hear a performance by popular singer Iwan Fals, named one of Asia’s contemporary heroes in 2002 by Time Magazine. During his show, Iwan recognized YHRI.
From Indonesia, the YRHI team is continuing on to South Africa, Congo, Kenya and Morocco, then on to Germany, Italy, Spain and England, before winding down in Puerto Rico and arriving back in the United States. They are working with YHRI local group hosts to hold events and activities that involve entire communities.
YHRI has 71 chapters and groups – at last count. YHRI education projects are now found in lands as diverse as Mexico, Taiwan, Serbia, Fiji, Canada, Austria, South Africa and Ghana, and this 2007 World Tour introduces YHRI to an increasing number of strategically important countries.
The purpose of Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) is simply to teach youth about human rights -- specifically, the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights – and inspire them to become life-long advocates for tolerance and peace. When children do not know their rights they are vulnerable. Millions of children have become victims of poverty, HIV/AIDS and human trafficking. In all parts of the inhabited world, children are at risk. Knowledge of their fundamental freedoms can empower youth not only to defend themselves, but also help others and, in so doing, build a better world with human rights.
Watch for more news as it comes in from the 2007 YHRI World Tour. For more information about Youth for Human Rights International, visit www.YouthforHumanRights.org. Volunteer and staff positions are available, and membership donations are tax deductible. Your help is welcome.
Youth for Human Rights International™
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www.YouthForHumanRights.org Tags: Youth for Human Rights International | Press Release
