Resolution Proclaiming December 10, 2015 as Human Rights Day in Sonoma County

On December 10, 1948, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, proclaiming in Article 1 that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Since that historic day, December 10th has been recognized internationally as Human Rights Day.

The Commission on Human Rights was established by the Board of Supervisors in 1993 to address any condition which represents prejudice or discrimination based on race, national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or medical condition. The Commission develops educational and instructional materials and programs to promote equal rights, tolerance, understanding, and inclusiveness. The Commission endeavors to encourage community dialogue concerning issues of tolerance and respect for human rights.

The Commission envisions “Human Rights Day” as an opportunity to promote personal and community actions to advance human dignity, understanding, harmony, and justice here in Sonoma County, and throughout the world. Both the regular Commission and the Junior Commission on Human Rights are actively working in the county’s schools and communities to promote tolerance and appreciation of our diversity.

In the past, the Commission has recognized individuals, businesses, and organizations for their work on behalf of human rights in Sonoma County. Plans are under way to resurrect this annual award in 2016 in conjunction with International Human Rights Day. As in the past, these awards will serve as an inspiration for advancing human dignity and promoting tolerance and understanding of our differences within our community. 

Resolution Of The Board Of Supervisors Of The County Of Sonoma, State Of California, Proclaiming December 10, 2015 Human Rights Day in Sonoma County

Whereas, on December 10, 1948, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted the first Universal Declaration of Human Rights, proclaiming that ''All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” and

Whereas, since this historic declaration of 67 years ago, December 10th has been recognized internationally as Human Rights Day; and

Whereas, the Board of Supervisors established the Sonoma County Commission on Human Rights in 1993 to research injustices and abridgements of human rights, to develop educational materials and programs that promote equal rights, tolerance, understanding, and the recognition and appreciation of human diversity, and to encourage community dialogue concerning issues of tolerance and respect for human rights; and

Whereas, the Board of Supervisors supports the activities and achievements of the Commission on Human Rights in advancing human dignity and promoting tolerance and understanding of our differences in our community.

Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved that the Board of Supervisors, in support of a day to promote personal and community actions which advance human dignity, tolerance and harmony among all people, hereby proclaims December 10, 2015 to be Human Rights Day in Sonoma County.