February Edition of Response

Seeking Human Rights

February 1998

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"Human Rights in 1998" by Jo Becker

"Repressive" foreign governments are not solely responsible for human rights abuses. The United States is guilty of human rights violations, but luckily non-governmental arenas around the world are increasing awareness of violations and starting to hold corporations and countries responsible for them. This article explores the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the churches' role in human rights advocacy, and resources for more study.

"Indigenous Peoples and Human Rights: Essential Partnership" by Carol Kalafatic

Irreversible damage to health and territories because of toxic dumping
Religious intolerance through forced relocation from sacred territories
Unauthorized patenting of a cultural heritage
Mass enslavement and murder in some places

In this article, Ms. Kalafatic looks hard at harsh situations of indigenous peoples around the world who are victims of human rights violations such as these.

"Racism: A Human-Rights Violation" by Robin Small-McCarthy

This article defines and explains racism as a violation of human rights and a rejection of the teachings of Jesus Christ. It looks at the signs of racism, why people do not view racism as a human rights violation, and the need for response from the Christian community.

"Police Brutality: In the Name of the Law" by Herschel Johnson

In 1997 Haitian immigrant Abner Louima ended up beaten, sodomized, and sustaining severe injuries in a Brooklyn police station. It's become a notorious case, but it's far from isolated. This article looks at some of the police brutality cases, explores why there are no official statistics on this human rights violation, delves into this violence directed at racial-ethnic people, and explores action ideas.

"Rural Mission: In God's Hands" by Yvette Moore

There are a number of issues that Rural Mission, Inc., leaves in God's hands. Yet with the support of God, this South Carolina institution reaches out to the migrant worker living without stability and the children and families who surround them. This article looks at the story of this institution, the concerns, and the future challenges.

"The Price of Land: The Price of Culture" by Yvette Moore

Rural Mission, Inc., is not alone on South Carolina's sea islands. Rapid commercial land developing is occurring around them. African-Americans, who bought the land when freed from slavery and passed it on to future generations, have lost more than one-third of their land. This article delves into the land-rights issue and programs to save the land, keeping it in the hands of the original owners.

"Sweat Shops: Signs of the Times" by Dana Jones

Overdue wages are used to keep people at jobs. Poor lighting, dust-filled air, and hot temperatures accompany 13-hour days. Sweatshop conditions exist around the country. This article looks at the issues, the conditions, and the actions that we can take to respond to these conditions.

"Fabiola Letelier: Human Rights Leader" by Fred J. Solowey

Chile was once known for its military dictatorship and blatant human rights violations. Yet Chile's most famous human rights defender says past torture and murder has brought on economic human rights violations of today. This article is about a mother of four and grandmother of five who has become famous for her crusading work as a human rights lawyer in Chile.

"United Methodist Women on Children, Immigration and Healthcare" by Anna Rhee

Click here to read this Assembly update and article!

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