International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

The International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims aims to honour the memory of victims of gross and systematic human rights violations. It underlines the importance of the right to truth and justice. It is a time to pay tribute to those who have devoted their lives or lost their lives in the struggle to promote and protect human rights. The day recognises the importance of truth as a critical foundation to achieving justice, promoting healing and reconciliation, and preventing future violations.

This observance finds its roots in honouring the life and work of Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador, who was assassinated on 24 March 1980 after criticising violence and human rights violations. In Australia, this day has a particular resonance in acknowledging past practices such as the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, now known as the Stolen Generations. By recognising the wrongs of the past, the intention is to ensure that such gross violations do not happen again.

In Australia, the International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is often marked by observances and events by human rights organisations and indigenous community groups. These activities aim to shine a light on past human rights atrocities and promote dialogue to aid in healing and reconciliation. It is observed annually on March 24, aligning with the global commemoration date, acknowledging the critical importance of truth and justice in fostering a fair and inclusive society.

Facts about this day

• March 24th serves as tribute to the memory of El Salvadorian Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero. Romero was assassinated on March 24th, 1980 after denouncing human right violations against vulnerable populations. He tried to preach human dignity and to speak out against all forms of violence.
  
• According to the UN, the right to the truth about human rights violations is an inalienable and autonomous right. As such, this right must be protected and guaranteed by individual nations. It is up to each nation to conduct effective investigations and to guarantee effective solutions and reparations.
• One in five Australian women has experienced sexual violence, and one in three has experienced physical violence. Despite making strides in gender equality, Australia still grapples with this human rights issue.
• People with disabilities in Australia often face significant barriers when attempting to access education, employment, and health services. Additionally, numerous cases of abuse and neglect within disability care facilities have been reported.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Read the UN's resolution to implement effective practices to promote the right to truth https://undocs.org/A/HRC/12/19
• Visit The Australian Human Rights Commission in Sydney for an understanding of the country's position and work in the field of human rights.
• Read a book to learn more about Human Rights Violations in Australia:
  The Little Red Yellow Black Book: An Introduction to Indigenous Australia - by Bruce Pascoe: This book explores the historical and ongoing injustices perpetrated against Australia's indigenous peoples.
  Dark Emu: Black Seeds: Agriculture or Accident? - by Bruce Pascoe: This isn't specifically about human rights violations, but it delves into the systematic mistreatment of indigenous Australians and the erasure of their culture and contributions.