Washington, D.C. – “On December 10, 1948, the member states of the United Nations joined together to issue the first global statement on fundamental freedoms and human rights.  This Universal Declaration of Human Rights has permeated governments and inspired populations to denounce tyranny and promote peace.

“Yet, despite advances over the last sixty years, the fight for human rights is far from over.  In 2008 alone, we have witnessed an ongoing genocide in Sudan, political oppression in Tibet, and the tyrannical repression of basic civil liberties in Zimbabwe."

“With billions still struggling to obtain basic civil rights and fundamental freedoms, the significance of this anniversary is both relevant and germane to current global events.  As Americans, we must continue to advocate for and pledge to support the suffering and disenfranchised around the world.”

-- 30 --