Columbus, Ohio: As the world prepares to celebrate International Human Rights Day on December 10, 2024, Harold D’Souza, a globally recognized advocate for human rights and the Ambassador for United Nations Youth for Human Rights, delivered an impactful keynote as the Chief Guest of Honor at a landmark event in Columbus, Ohio, on December 8, 2024.
The event, held to honor the principles of human rights and educate communities about the 30 Articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), brought together leaders from various sectors, including faith-based organizations, students, policymakers, and community advocates.
Harold D’Souza, known as a “Game Changer Globally” for his relentless efforts in raising awareness about human rights and combating human trafficking, addressed a diverse audience with an inspiring message: “Every individual born on this planet has inherent rights that must be recognized, respected, and protected.”
Advocating for Change in Ohio
During his address, Harold D’Souza commended the state of Ohio for its progressive efforts in the fight against human trafficking. He highlighted the launch of Ohio’s first Statewide Human Trafficking Hotline: 844-363-6448, an initiative aimed at providing immediate assistance and resources to victims of trafficking.
“This hotline is not just a number; it is a lifeline for countless individuals trapped in the horrors of modern slavery. Ohio has set a powerful example that every state should follow,” D’Souza stated, encouraging communities to actively support the hotline’s mission.
Championing Human Rights Education
D’Souza’s mission centers on educating communities about the 30 Articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In his speech, he likened the importance of human rights education to fundamental childhood learning.
“Just as every child learns their ABCs and 123s, every human being should know and understand their 30 human rights. Awareness is the first step to empowerment,” D’Souza emphasized.
Through engaging storytelling, D’Souza shared real-life examples of how knowledge of human rights has transformed lives, offering a beacon of hope and resilience to victims of injustice and exploitation.
A Life-Changing Vision
D’Souza’s unwavering dedication to human rights education has made him a transformative figure across the globe. From addressing congregations in churches to collaborating with government departments, universities, schools, and grassroots organizations, his work transcends borders, cultures, and generations.
“Harold D’Souza is not just an advocate; he is a living example of resilience, courage, and the power of education to change lives,” said one attendee at the Columbus event.
The event highlighted D’Souza’s ability to connect deeply with his audience, inspiring them to take action in their own communities. His engaging presence has made him a sought-after speaker at forums ranging from faith organizations to international summits.
Inspiration Across Communities
D’Souza’s influence is far-reaching. As the President of Eyes Open International, he has spearheaded initiatives that empower individuals and communities to prevent and combat modern-day slavery. His efforts have earned him recognition on global platforms, including being honored with the United Nations Human Rights Hero Award in 2023.
In his role as Ambassador for United Nations Youth for Human Rights, D’Souza works tirelessly to ensure that youth understand the significance of their rights and responsibilities. His approach emphasizes collaboration with schools and universities to integrate human rights education into their curriculums.
A Call to Action
D’Souza closed the event with a powerful call to action:
“Let us teach our children the ABCs of their rights. Let us empower communities to stand united against injustice. Together, we can create a world where every individual knows their worth and lives with dignity.”
His words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving them inspired to contribute to the movement for universal human rights.
Marking International Human Rights Day
December 10, celebrated annually as International Human Rights Day, serves as a reminder of the importance of the UDHR, a document that has stood as a global standard for freedom, equality, and justice. Harold D’Souza’s address on December 8 in Columbus set the stage for this important day, underscoring the significance of collaboration and education in achieving a world free from exploitation.
About Harold D’Souza
Harold D’Souza is a globally recognized human rights advocate, speaker, and the President of Eyes Open International. A survivor of labor trafficking himself, D’Souza has dedicated his life to educating and empowering communities to combat human trafficking and uphold human rights. His work has been celebrated worldwide, making him a beacon of hope and inspiration.
For more information about Harold D’Souza and his initiatives, please visit www.eyesopeninternational.org, https://indiachristians.in/harold-dsouza
