(01 A->G): Civic obligation: What is our responsibility for helping fellow human beings in search of security and a better life? Do we have a responsibility to admit people seeking security and/or a better life to each of our nations? What obligations do we have to comply with the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights? Do you believe that everyone is entitled to the rights that the document specifies? Tell us why or why not. by Judi Freeman https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c Please post below, with your name and country indicated. en-us 2021-01-15 22:50:59 UTC 2021-02-26 06:29:27 UTC hello@padlet.com Jack T., Boston, Massachusetts, USA jtrapanick https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103652697 I  believe we have a great responsibility to help refugees and immigrants seeking a better life. Especially in regard to my own country, the wealthiest in the world, we can easily afford to accommodate more refugees than we are currently (I believe Trump lowered it to around 45,000 or something). I see no reason why we would not have the space and resources to actually accommodate many times more than that--yes, more than Biden's proposed increase to 125,000. Unemployment is extremely low anyway and I believe the "immigrants will steal your jobs" thinking is economically flawed. Immigrants made us greater in the past and will continue to do so, if only we give them a chance. To not do so is to condemn too many to facing the violence, poverty, or persecution they originally fled from.  As I'm sure everyone will agree, our Zero Tolerance and Remain in Mexico policies are huge moral and humanitarian failures that reflect the unhappy results of inflating unfounded fears around immigrants.
I also 100% stand by everything in the UDHR. The rights outlined in it are fundamental and make total sense- they make clear that to be human is to have dignity, and respect this powerful ideal is the easiest but most impactful way to better society. Since the US ratified it, it should be making every effort to comply with its demands--especially Article 23 and 25. In the past the US has often prioritized individual freedom (sometimes to the extreme) over the rights of the many, to great detriment, (think courts striking down mask mandates and closures of religious buildings) and this document would help prevent that. ]]> 2021-01-19 22:46:15 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103652697 Danny N, Boston, Massachusetts, USA dnguyen771 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103744488 I believe that immigration restrictions are immoral and that we have a responsibility to help immigrants and refugees. Preventing refugees that are seeking a better opportunity further contributes to the stigma that immigrants are bad and that they are stealing jobs, or at least that is the rhetoric being said here in the United States. If one can move between cities for a better job opportunity, why can't immigrants? They often start off with low-skill and low-wage jobs which most Americans would not want anyways. There's definitely a lot of misleading claims made about immigrants here in the United States. In the New York Times article, it stated that many people overestimate the number of immigrants in their countries by almost 20% and about 15% of people surveyed believed that immigrants receive twice as much funding from the government than natives. This further causes a divide within the country and creates an us vs. them situation where immigrants are othered. This was historically seen in the Chinese Massacre of 1871 where Chinese people were lynched in Old Chinatown in California and the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, both of which were economically driven. Anyone should be able to immigrate to another country for economic reasons without being attacked or accused of stealing jobs. I definitely agree with the United Nations' Declaration of Human Rights as it demands that all humans are equal. But in order for these rights to be made, there must be an effort to help others that are not in a position of economic stability, political stability, environmental stability, or any other privilege. ]]> 2021-01-19 23:56:38 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103744488 Regina C, Boston, Massachusettes, USA rchiem https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103749713 I think we have a responsibility to give what we can to the people around us. The idea of security and a better life stem from the opinion that what is given is unjust to the person. The first step is to come to the realization of the corrupt system that people are seeking other places to go for refugee as a problem. From the other side of the spectrum, I feel that we have the responsibility to admit people seeking security or a better life. The reason it is restricted now is due to fear that drives a force into the corrupt idea that immigrants are bad. Going off of the idea of immigrants stealing jobs, they are going for jobs that usually require labor that most Americans would not comply with, many will end up working more intensively, get paid less, and suffer more in order to obtain an inch of what the stereotypical white American man has. The United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights should be the fundamental obligations everyone should follow.  In order to create a space where we as humans are setting a standard of equality, it will only further our respect for one another. By enforcing these ideas, it will solve a lot of the stigma placed around people or culture that we fear and do not have as much knowledge about. We only fear what we ourselves do not understand or are given certain viewpoints to follow, by enforcing these ideas, there will be a clearer picture as the respect we should have for one another is in place which will create a space for conversation and personal statements. Yet I think it is impossible to get to a point of the majority to up stand these morals as many people especially in America where many of peoples values are capitalistic and are worried about the individual continuing to progress ahead. I also thought article 6 was shocking because of how little it was expressed in the United States. Going back to the idea of the power of the individual in America,  without article 6, laws instated prioritize certain people over others which creates again the idea of capitalism and progressing further than others, that in my opinion is going to be very hard and possibly impossible to ever achieve due to individual values.]]> 2021-01-20 00:01:03 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103749713 Silvia G, Boston, Massachusetts, USA sguarnotta https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103758057 I completely believe that everyone has the responsibility to admit people seeking security and a better life to our nation. People face immense struggles within their country and need to seek safety elsewhere and are turned away constantly. Every individual deserves to relocate in order to find a better life no matter where they originate from. We have the responsibility to assist those struggling and provide comfort and protection. Within America these people are met with racisim and discrimination, blatantly denied the security they require. Throughout history immigrants have been viewed as enemies and dangerous, leading to false stereotypes being spread out of proportion. This has caused many to be influenced by the news and our president and harass and mistreat those coming to our country. We have the obligation to withhold the articles within the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights regardless of where the individual immigrated from. These rights are crucial within society and must be followed in order to treat everyone equally and welcome those in need. Everyone should be able to seek asylum, leave their country, and find security within another nation. These rights apply to every human being because everyone is entitled to receive the same opportunities and freedoms. The fact that these rights have been challenged and dismissed  is horrific and needs to be followed with repercussions. 


]]> 2021-01-20 00:07:40 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103758057 Aidan O, Boston, Massachusetts, USA https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103775807 I think we as Americans, and every nation as an international community, should be obligated to welcome everybody with open arms no matter where they come from. Preventing refugees from immigrating to a more developed nation in seek of a better life further stigmatizes migration, which is an organic human process. Actions such as these also upholds the classist and often-times racist (as themes of our socio-economy and race intersect) social order that we as a global society have contributed to throughout our history. US citizens and other members of Western societies must ignore the xenophobic sentiments being spread by our media and community leaders. Often-times many of these stereotypes that they create to describe a prototype immigrant are intertwined in racist and coded tropes that have no basis in reality. Our institutions utilize this derogatory imagery in order to grow support for their own agendas.
Regarding the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights, I do believe that everyone is entitled to the rights listed in the document. However, I do believe that many of the human rights abuses that we have seen throughout our our history and in our present comes down to the fact that wealthier nations aren't giving the aid that is needed to maintain a healthy amount of community vitality throughout the whole globe. These stereotypes about migrants and refugees being inferior all stem from the idea that many of them are coming from communities that are less well off then the one they are entering to. If aid was given aid was more widely spread throughout the developing world in order to betterboth economic and societal infrustructures, less people would have to assimilate to foreign cultures (right to nationality) or seek refuge away from their homeland (right to asylum). Although these rights are essential to the world we live in today and to any society in general, in order to prevent the images of inferiority and stigma that is on the backs of migrants, we must invest in the communities they are emigrating from. ]]> 2021-01-20 00:21:32 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103775807 Grace P, Boston, Massachusetts, USA gpham21 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103890320 I believe that every country has the obligation to admit immigrants, who have fled their countries because of poverty, violence, or the impacts of climate change on their homes. It is not fair that only certain groups of people have the fundamental rights of security, liberty, and life, which are entitled to everyone. The United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights should be strictly upheld by every nation as it outlines natural rights that ensure a world of equality. It is also important to point out that most of the United States’ population consists of descendants of immigrants so why should any American citizen deprive immigrants of the same desire to live a better life? In the United States, as well as many other nations, anti-immigrant sentiment is often driven by stereotypes like “immigrants steal your jobs'' or “immigrants live off of government welfare systems,” both of which are false. This fear against immigrants is also emphasized by how people in the United States and in Europe tend to exaggerate the number of immigrants in their country to build onto the notion that immigrants are corrupt and want to take over. However, the reality is that immigrants help our economy. They often take on occupations that require more manual labor, like nail technicians, construction workers, janitors, and housekeepers. These are jobs that other people do not want because of the exposure to chemicals or other dangers. In addition, my country’s low birth rate means that there are less people to take up jobs. This factor goes further to show that immigrants would benefit the economy by taking up these unoccupied jobs. If people reach out to immigrants, they will have a more positive impression of immigrants. They would be able to recognize their work ethic, sense of independence, and courage. Ultimately, allowing immigrants the same universal liberties by helping them seek social and economic stability and security will create a more open and robust society.
 
]]> 2021-01-20 01:44:34 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1103890320 Aidan C, Boston, Massachusetts, USA achen332 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107213307 Nowadays, the issues surrounding immigration lie primarily within the host country’s willingness to admit such people. For example, the multi-ethnic nature of the United States draws even more appeal to this country as opposed to another large-scale country that is ethnically homogenous (for example, China). Yet many US citizens oppose immigration, claiming that the admission of foreigners is somehow damaging to the country. They make this claim out of fear for the supposed ‘economic ramifications’, or simply out of a prejudiced standpoint that “foreigners don’t belong in our country”. To address the latter point first, it’s clear that the idea of national identity stands in the way of many countries’ immigration viewpoints (not just the US). However, I believe that the entire concept of maintaining national identity through ethnic commonalities is outdated in modern day. Globalization has affected the world to an extent that people of all ethnic origins can now live in nearly any part of the world, unlike centuries ago when people were confined to a certain radius around their birthplaces. Negative sentiment towards immigrants solely because of racial biases is inherently a form of othering, which needs to be wiped out in modern day. Furthermore, immigration to the United States shouldn’t be a problem based on an economic viewpoint, given the rate at which the government has been printing USD in recent years. In fact, I believe that the need for more jobs could actually stimulate the economy, especially in a time when COVID-19 has damaged the US market greatly. 

Beyond tangible factors however, I do agree with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in their statements regarding the acceptance of migrants seeking refuge in another country. As previously mentioned, globalization has increased accessibility to other countries for many people around the world. This means that those who are struggling within their current environment are sure to pursue a better life elsewhere, simply out of human instinct. If this opportunity is present, yet it is withheld by the host country, then we are preventing people from the unalienable right to their pursuit of happiness, a mantra written within the Constitution of our very own country. Many also forget that migrants do not necessarily have an easy process of immigration - in many cases, escape from their original country is a “final resort” of sorts when all else fails. Within circumstances like these, to deprive people of entry into a haven would be extremely cruel and inhumane. As stated in the previous paragraph, we take minimal loss when migrants enter our country, and I believe that even if there was damage to our own country, our prevailing sense of human righteousness and dignity should overrule that sentiment. America was founded upon immigration, and this theme has been pervasive throughout its history. Yet, in past decades, many have tried to oppose the very thing which has defined our land for ages. Of all countries in the world right now, America has the largest obligation to allow immigrants into our country. Consider our ancestors, who sought better life in the land which we now call home - if they had the chance, then so should the people of today, seeking a better life in America.

]]> 2021-01-20 18:47:27 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107213307 Isabella S, Boston, Massachusetts, USA isalazar34 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107287500 One of the most important things humans can do is make sure that others feel safe and secure. For a lot of people the countries they live in have weak economies that cause them to live in poverty, or they are in danger because of war or other reasons. My own family emigrated because they felt that their lives were in danger, and they allowed me to have a better life than they did by moving to the US. Human decency should let us see that there is no reason for preventing people from having that same chance. The United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights says that everyone has the  “right to life, liberty, and security of person.” which means no matter where people are or need to go they deserve to feel safe. Not only does immigration improve the lives of the people emigrating, but it helps everyone else, too. Most of the time immigrants do the jobs that many people, especially in America, don't want to do. Without immigrants America would not have a very good economy. That is one of the reasons that people should not want immigrants to be forced out of the countries in which they choose to settle in. The United States has always had issues with letting immigrants live and work in this country, but people seem to forget that almost everyone in this country comes from immigrants. The land that white people feel is theirs, is not, because it truly belongs to the Native Americans who were stripped from it. Immigrants are people and they deserve to be treated as everyone else is treated.]]> 2021-01-20 19:03:10 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107287500 Greg R, Boston, Massachusetts, USA grosenkranz1 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107366521 As stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, rights such as the ability to seek asylum in other countries are supposed to be guaranteed to all people. Seeing as humans created these rules, it is just as much our duty to help enforce them and ensure they are not just empty promises. Therefore we have tremendous responsibility to help others in search of security and or a better life. So do individual nations, all of which we are members. Obviously, the situation is far more complex and to have completely free and open borders is not reasonable in modern times. However, each of our nations' laws should be created in the best interest of both existing citizens and those seeking a better life through immigration. This means allowing others to seek asylum from violence, search for better economic opportunities, and find a new and better home in each of our nations. In terms of upholding the UDHR, I believe that as with everything else in life, we have an obligation to comply with and uphold these rights to the best of our ability. This means allowing as many immigrants to seek asylum and a better life as we possibly can in a method as fair as possible. This is no easy task, as worldwide there are millions of immigrants all equally deserving of better opportunity. With this in mind, I do believe that all people are deserving of these rights, unless they commit a crime severe enough to have these rights taken away. For example, I do not believe anyone who is convicted of an act such as murder should have the right to leave their country. However, all other people, regardless of their previous situations or where they come from, should be entitled to these rights and have equal access to pursue a better life through immigration. ]]> 2021-01-20 19:20:55 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107366521 Eileen L, Boston, Massachusetts, USA https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107421895 Our nations wouldn't be obliged to help those seeking security if there was no United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights because the nations responsibility is just the people in the nation. However this agreement laid the responsibility on all nations. If people don't feel secure in their nations it should be human decency to receive them with open arms. Everyone is entitled to the rights that the document states because they're basic necessities for living. Everyone deserves to be happy and comfortable in their nation. If they don't the bare minimum should be having the ability to start over somewhere else. No one is restricted to one place the world is too big for that. 
For example immigrants don't normally go to a country for fun, there's always a reason whether it's for economic opportunities, educational opportunities, or a fresh start. They deserve to attain those things if their motherland fails to give them those things. It would be ignorant to not allow someone to move somewhere else because that's not "their country". No one owns any country, we're all just living in them. Everything is simply a social construct based on biases and superiority. Once everything boils down we're all people trying to live securely, comfortably, and happily no matter where.]]> 2021-01-20 19:33:40 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107421895 Jalel (Tunisia) Brain drain jalelmarmouri1 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107591667
The article mentions that a good number of people who immigrate from economically underprivileged countries to richer ones are educated and  are going to benefit the countries they immigrate to. We are witnessing this in Tunisia as we have been suffering from a huge brain drain that looks like a bleeding wound in the body of the country since the 2011 ( the year of the Tunisian "unfinished " revolution). Doctors, engineers, technicians and many other highly qualified people left the country to settle mainly in Europe and countries of the Arabian Gulf.  So I agree with the article that the rich countries should help the less privileged countries to build a better economy if they really want to help them and reduce the number of immigrants from these countries. 

]]> 2021-01-20 20:17:21 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107591667 Addy K, Boston, Massachusetts, USA https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107805644 I think that we have the responsibility as stated by the UN's Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and specifically with the “right to life, liberty, and security of person” (Article 3). As others have stated, these rules were made by humans, meaning they will fail without active enforcement from nations. But then again, nations and borders themselves are all made by humans and there is nothing definite or permanent about them. If action is not taken to uphold and help nations in need, they too fail. This occurs far too often in developing nations with political instability and violence, resulting in the emigration and diaspora in the first place. We should work to uphold the human “right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country” by allowing immigrants in and giving them asylum, but more important, we should also work to uphold the last part of that quote by helping developing countries (Article 13). As the article states, "persistently high fertility rates across Africa have produced a... bulge of young people eager to make a better life across the Mediterranean." Birthrates in developing nations are much higher than in developed countries, increasing the number of migrants. Only by fixing the root problem of economic and political instability in nations with high rates of diaspora will immigration begin to slow down. Walls and restrictions in immigration within countries only worsen the situation. No one should have to flee their country in search for their human “right to life, liberty, and security of person” (Article 3). Richer countries, especially those whose economies are supported by exploiting and stealing the resources of others (which often results in the economic and political instabilities that these nations face), have the obligation of upholding and providing the human rights of those who lack them.]]> 2021-01-20 21:27:31 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107805644 Tandin JW, Boston, Massachusetts, USA tjohnsonward https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107869241 Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the “right to life, liberty, and security of person” and “right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution.” Because it states this, as well as from a moral standpoint, nations do have the responsibility to admit those seeking a better life because everyone has the right to have security and a safe life. Immigration is a natural thing that has been happening for centuries, and nations have a responsibility to make it easy and accessible to anyone who wishes to go to a different country. We all have an obligation to follow the Declaration of Human Rights because it displays the basic rights that everyone should be able to have. There are a lot of negative feelings surrounding immigration based off of false assumptions that many people have on the topic that often make it hard to have real conversations about. Many people believe harmful stereotypes about immigrants that ultimately subjects many immigrants to racism and harmful experiences in the United States as well as other countries around the world. In the United States we can do our part by voting for people who believe in more open immigration policies as well as making immigrants in our communities feel at home. I believe that everyone should be entitled to the rights that the Declaration of Human Rights specifies; however, it is important to acknowledge that many are denied these rights simply because of where they are from or what they look like. Privileged nations where most people have these rights have a responsibility to help nations where many lack these rights, which starts with admitting people from those countries who are looking for security or a better life. ]]> 2021-01-20 21:54:43 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107869241 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107891314 2021-01-20 22:05:24 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1107891314 Jesse C, Boston, Massachusetts, USA jcorrell4 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108026261 As it states in the UN Declaration human rights, all are entitled to "right to life, liberty and security of person" as well as right to seek asylum from persecution and as humans and world citizens it is our responsibility to make sure that everyone has access to these rights. Unfortunately we often see that those who need these protections and our help the most are the most demonized and pushed away. Those immigrating for a better life or fleeing prosecution and seeking asylum need our help but to often are pushed away or attacked. For these reasons we do have an obligation to let in those who need it especially when their lives are in danger if they were turned away. The UN declaration is a step in the right direction and we all have an obligation to commit to its values but we shouldn't need the UN to tell us what we should already know to help those in need and while it supports positive messaging whats needed by the UN is specific policy regarding world governments. Everyone is deserving of these rights by their status as a human beings but these rights don't guarantee protection from legal consequences of criminals. Immigrants and asylum seekers make great sacrifices to get into a new country and improve their lives and this sacrifice should be respected and should bring assistance rather than bring more problems and bitterness for them.]]> 2021-01-20 23:28:27 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108026261 Emma L, Boston, Massachusetts, USA elu41 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108083973 I do think we have the moral obligation to aid people — who have been forced to leave their homes — in finding security, even and especially in our own nations where we have the resources to help them. As it is written in Article 14 of the UN's Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to "seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution.” I think that many of the controversies regarding immigration stem from a fear that immigrants will naturally harm the country they are coming to — that "they" will take resources and jobs from "us," that "they" will spread their language and culture onto "us." Yet, as the article shows, we Americans have an extremely inflated view on the extent to which immigrants are profiting from the country's resources. All this fear and xenophobia which arises doesn't come from rational thought; rather, it is created by feelings of nationalism and superiority. We shouldn't forbid fellow humans from just trying to live life without fear, simply because we believe in set territories of countries — these man-made borders  should not be a barrier to any human's safety. 

I think as Americans, we especially have obligations to receive those seeking asylum because we have the resources to help others. There are so many ways in which our country exploits the resources and labor of individuals in other (and, much of the time, poorer) countries — with Jack and Grace's palm oil article being a more recent example. The NYT article also brings up a good point near its end — if richer countries do not want immigrants, why do they not help poorer countries become wealthier? Instead of helping other countries stabilize their governments and economies, the United States exploits them, boasts of its wealth, then weaponizes this disparity against struggling workers in the name of "patriotism." 

I think we all have an obligation to comply with the UN's Declaration of Human Rights because we are all fundamentally human. Our human rights are bigger than any existing bounds of nationality or race — they show we are all equal humans with the same valid needs. To agree on a declaration of human rights is so important so we can agree on how to treat each other with dignity. 

]]> 2021-01-21 00:12:26 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108083973 Damon N, Boston, Massachusetts, USA dnguyen821 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108285120 As today's global society is,  there is a responsibility for nations to help others who are in search of security and a better life. In theory we are all supposed to help each other for the betterment of society and because it would be the correct thing to do as a human, but there isn't anything that obligates humans to help each other. According to UN Universal Decoration of Human Rights, people have the right to life, liberty and security of person. This is something that should be upheld. Governments and people should not actively try to restrict these rights. Other rights such as Article 13, "right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country", should not be taken away. I believe as a nation we should try to help others when resources are available. The US is very much a nation of abundance in many aspects and helping those from other nations would only help America. Under the UN, every nation should be held to the standards given. These articles are not difficult to uphold and humans should be entitled to these rights. Without any of these rights, we would feel restricted and at the very core, less human. I believe that most people are entitled to the Articles laid out by the UN. Those who are convicted of serious crimes or people who are correctly deemed as dangerous should have a restricted version of these rights. For example those who have been convicted of being a predator should have a restricted version of Article 13. "Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state." There should be restrictions for certain situations to protect others as well.]]> 2021-01-21 02:34:40 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108285120 Elisa M, Boston, Massachusetts, USA https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108359024 I’m a firm believer that we as humans are morally obligated to aid those in search of security and a better life. Security should be far from a privilege, but rather a universal human right. Much like the United Nation’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, everyone has the “right to life, liberty, and security of a person.” To deny others the right to security is completely unethical and immoral. We should constantly be understanding of the situations that others have found themselves in, and if they wish to seek asylum, that option should be accepted with open arms. Furthermore, we need to make an effort to correct these misunderstandings and false misconceptions of immigrants. They, are much as everyone else, are people who are trying their best to survive. To believe that they are trying to steal jobs or take opportunities from others is downright ignorant. They are doing quite the contrary to this belief, where they not only play a pivotal role in the growth of the economy, but also frequently take jobs that are low paying and low skill. Ultimately, I do believe that everyone is entitled to the human rights that the United Nations declared, as they are fundamental human rights that every person should have access to. Everyone should have the right to a quality life, and one should never be denied that just because they are an immigrant.]]> 2021-01-21 03:31:21 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108359024 Rachel R, Boston, Massachusetts, USA https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108380539 Today, many of the speakers at the presidential inauguration emphasized the idea that the USA is a leader among nations. But we cannot assume this role only when it is most convenient for us; it must be reflected at all times and in all areas, including immigration policy. We often pride ourselves on being the richest, most prosperous country, and although statements like this aren't always exactly true, we have an obligation to share that wealth of resources with those who are less fortunate, no matter where they come from. Not only is our nation built on the labor of immigrants (some who came willingly, others who did not) but our current economy benefits at the expense of individuals in other countries. I understand that it is our leaders' jobs to put the needs of the American people first, but if we have the means to help those seeking asylum, it is only right that we extend a hand. 70 years ago we agreed to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, yet somewhere along the way it was decided that the right to life, liberty, and security of person (Article 3) only applies to those born on this side of the border, or those who are "useful" enough to earn a spot in our country. Many Americans could not even pass the exams immigrants are expected to complete before earning citizenship, yet we feel such a strong sense of entitlement to something that, for us, was determined by luck. 
Article 6 states that everyone has the right to being recognized as a person under the law. Surely this recognition as a fellow human should extend beyond the law as well, yet as the article demonstrated, many citizens of democratic countries view immigrants as little more than a threatening statistic, one that endangers their own jobs and benefits. The only reason an immigrant might "steal" your job is if they are more qualified than you, and isn't that a rational reason to hire one person over another? There is also the fear that immigrants will be willing to work for much lower wages, thus putting all of the working class at a disadvantage. We observed some examples of this and the ensuing xenophobic hate in class recently. It's ironic that the white American workers turned their fury at this possibility on their fellow workers, not the corrupt employers exploiting their labor for such low wages.
Another article that the US has violated is the ninth, which reads "no one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile". Thousands of mothers, fathers, and children have been detained at the border for months on end, forced to remain in awful conditions that rival those of prisons (and the internment camps of WWII, another example of this article being violated but with its very own citizens). It is the government's inefficiency and indifference that has kept them there so long. They have done nothing to deserve this, their only crime was seeking a better, safer life for themselves and their families. Isn't this motive something we praise in our own citizens, isn't it the very foundation of the American dream?
The USA must do what it agreed to all those years ago and uphold ALL of the rights outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Failing to do so is completely hypocritical and contradicts all the democratic values that we claim to have been founded on.]]> 2021-01-21 03:47:59 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108380539 Lilah G, Boston, Massachusetts, USA lgutlerner https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108386042 In 1948, the United Nations gatherer and collectively agreed on the contents of the document, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Here they listed a number of articles containing rights that should allegedly be applied to everybody, creating a baseline global understanding of rights and responsibilities ranging from broader scale actions to more specific ones.

The third article is particularly broad, stating that all humans have the “right to life, liberty, and security of person.” (Article 3) While this does mean that everyone is entitled to these things, it also means that we all have the responsibility of ensuring that others are given the same rights as well. We can’t all individually have life, liberty, and security without all of us making sacrifices. 

Part of ensuring security and a better, free life, has a lot to do with immigration and policies surrounding it. Article 14 states that everyone has the, “right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution.” America is based on the core values of being a country for all people. A country where everyone can be free and everyone can use their voice. However, even in a nation where asylum is supposed to be guaranteed, it is most certainly not. And if we cannot uphold this article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that is in our own constitution, how should countries not built on this value be expected to do so?

I believe every person and every nation has a responsibility to do everything they can on both the macro and micro levels to guarantee the rights that have been universally agreed upon. No matter the place, this starts with education. 


In America, as seen explicitly in the New York Times Article, people falsely believe that immigrants are taking jobs away from American born citizens, and are disproportionately benefiting from the country’s profits. From the minute a child starts school, they are taught to believe that America is the absolute greatest country in the world, and that as a citizen, they are entitled to take that title wherever they please. This blatantly promotes xenophobia and supremacy. 

It should be necessary for everyone around the world to have access to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Everyone needs to know the rights that they have, and the responsibilities they have to others. 
]]> 2021-01-21 03:51:59 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108386042 Andy M, Boston, Massachusetts, USA amontrose https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108397926 The responsibly we have to help other human beings isn't something that should be debated.  In America there are a cornucopia of arguments to not help immigrants. Politicians are so eager not to help other human beings they are willing to pass legislature to remove hardworking people who have lived in this country honestly. They have families and have paid taxes just like any other American citizen but they are still dragged out of this country.  I've always thought we should help immigrants because its the right thing to do, it right expand this country on its founding principles. But there's two sides to viewing immigrants. One side believes America is stronger with them since most of this country was built by either slaves or by immigrants. And the other side believes America will be destroyed by immigrants. The "American Way" will fade and a new unfamiliar, scary "way" will takes its place. I wish people could realize the "American Way" won't disappear just because people are entering the country.

Reading the United Nations handbook I had no idea there was an article intended to help asylum seekers. "Article 14: Right to Asylum in other Countries from Persecution" This one article is enough to help asylum seekers. If the US was one of the original voices at the table where Article 14 was drafted, why doesn't the United States follow what it agreed on following. I'm absolutely  dumbfounded after registering what this really means. I read the Universal Declaration when we received it but I didn't realize what it meant. The United States and the United Nations agreed to "Right to Asylum in other Countries from Persecution". So what's the hold up? What are we waiting for? Throughout the history of the  United States time and time again we have made empty promises to the world. The United States is supposed to be a beacon of virtue for the world. It's time to fulfill our promise to the world and help people from all walks of life. No matter the religion, race, or sexual orientation. 

The UDHR was drafted to ensure equality around the world. It was supposed to guarantee equality. If America don't agree with equality then the UDHR isn't for us. But if we wake up and realize what we are doing is wrong we can become a campion of equality and start fighting for justice.

]]> 2021-01-21 03:59:26 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108397926 Mia C, Boston, Massachusetts, USA mchow7 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108533159 The rights to seek security and to a better life are ones that shouldn’t be disputed. Despite what some politicians in the United States may say, we have plenty of resources to aid immigrants to pursue these human rights without hurting those who live in this country already. A pretty common argument I hear a lot more than I would like is the position that while those who enter legally are at liberty to seek security and a better life, those who enter illegally are not. This is a view that I strongly disagree with.
Our country was seemingly founded on the basis of liberty/freedom. And since we are in a position to help, why shouldn’t we extend our aid to those seeking liberty in this country? No matter their legal status, immigrants are humans (it’s sad to have to stress that) and so naturally, their human rights should be protected. America likes to almost dehumanize immigrants in the way that they tend to downplay or even disregard the fact that immigrants do have rights that are protected under the UN’s Declaration of Human Rights...which is shocking. Humans seeking security and a better life are exactly that...humans. And so, they fall under the protection of the UN’s Declaration of Human Rights and countries should (and need) to do everything in their power to protect these rights.
]]> 2021-01-21 05:18:14 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108533159 Rayna M, Boston MA rmook https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108569266 Helping fellow human beings in search of security and a better life is our moral duty as people, but I also believe it is our responsibility to do this as Americans. We often hear about people who moved to America in search of the "American Dream" but end up failing, we advertise to the world that America is the place where anyone can succeed but that is just simply not true. Nowadays people who who are born in America need to work two jobs just to barely get by, so how is an immigrant going to be able to do any better?

I do believe everyone is entitled to the rights stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. All of the Articles seem like common sense to me, but then again, if rules are not stated then there will be some country somewhere that exploits their citizens.]]> 2021-01-21 05:38:41 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108569266 Ziqi Z, Boston, Massachusetts, USA zzhen https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108648547 One powerful thing that I was reminded of recently while watching a show is this “I support this, but not in my backyard” mentality. I think this fits with the immigrant question really well. “Sure, I think it’s great that they leave their country and go to another one to improve themselves, but they just can’t come here, because I’m already here.” It’s another fascinating aspect of humanity that I feel like people needs to talk more about.

It’s funny, because America has had so many waves of immigration, and each and every time they has always been massive resistance and pushback, whether that take in the form of the Native American Party during the 19th century (very ironic) or today’s rhetoric about Mexicans and other immigrants. This kind of rhetoric didn’t just spring up when the amour of Mexican immigrants increased by more than 10 million in a 30 year period, this rhetoric has been around for as long as immigration into America existed. 

Morally, yes, we should support those who are coming over here to seek a better life, but it’s also economically pretty important. As others have pointed out, our nation, more often than not, was often built by those who have came over here. (Slavery basically directly and indirectly powering everything, Chinese and Irish building the railroads etc.) Historically, by far the most common type of immigrants have been those coming over with little to none in their pockets. They are not here to take the job you already have, they’re here to take the usually undesirable low wage jobs. Without a ready supply of people who can take out these jobs, the economy could be collapsed, kind of like what’s happening in Europe right now with their aging populations and low fertility rates.

Every right laid out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights seem reasonable and fair. I feel disappointed knowing that multiple countries which were present during the discussion of these rights have so blatantly disregarded them. Most of the rights do feel vague, which unfortunately means there are a lot of wiggle room. For the U.S, Article 5 does ring hollow when you think about the horrifying ICE camps and prison conditions, as Rachel mentioned. Article 25 is also weird because poverty and homelessness is such a massive problem, and again, the federal government does not adequately address them.
]]> 2021-01-21 06:18:54 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108648547 Deanna R, Boston, Massachusetts, USA druelo2 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108722510 It’s our responsibility as decent human beings to help those who are in need of security and opportunities in order to have a livelihood. More often than not, we’ve seen in the U.S. that immigration has furthered the mentality of us vs. them, and because humans are “tribal” by nature, they immediately distinguish those who they consider a part of their internal group and those who are outsiders. Their perceptions of those who are of a different ethnicity or race in a pejorative sense, and thus they act in a xenophobic manner because they cannot fathom that immigrants are “taking over the workforce” or are “invading the country” However, this mindset of immigration being a job-stealing phenomenon is something we need to rid ourselves of. Not only is it deepening the racial gap in our country, but it also encourages ignorance of the factors and reasons that brought immigrants to certain countries. America is supposed to be a prosperous country with plenty of resources, yet people fear that there’s a limited supply of a certain resource and resort to pointing fingers before anyone can take it away from them. Whether or not they had the intention of moving, they shouldn’t be the scapegoat for any country’s internal strife. Saying that, immigrants have the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state and the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country (Article 13). Denying anyone this security of residence is unjustifiable and immoral. America prospered off of the influx of immigration, so what rationale is there to justify depriving those seeking the same opportunities as those who came here did? Anti-immigration sentiment has become a burden on top of the hardships immigrants already face with having to come here in order to cross the borders.The UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights have all pointed to something that we value as human beings: happiness. Yet, that same happiness and access to resources to gain it has been taken away and as Ziqi said, the vagueness of the rights allow for loopholes to occur. ]]> 2021-01-21 06:48:10 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1108722510 Ourania P, Boston, Massachusetts, USA oparastatidis https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1109901044 2021-01-21 13:16:07 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1109901044 Brooks G, Boston Massachusetts, USA bgillespie8 https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1116391761 I believe that, as humans living in the society that currently exists, it is our moral and social obligation to help fellow human beings in search of security and a better life. I personally believe that all humans should seek to help ther humans as much as possible, and I do not think that helping these people hurts other people in a way that outweighs the original good deed. I also think that we have a responsibility to admit people seeng security and/or a better life to our nations because, again, we are helping these people more than we are hurting existing members f our own naton. I also believe that a nation's purpose is not to just make itself more prosperous, but to help all the countries of the world thrive in a moral and productive manner, and so even if admitting these people is a little bit bad for our country, we should still do it because it is better for the world as a whole.

I believe that we should comply with the UN's declaratio of human rights because, if we do not, then what other parts of the UN might we start ignorng? And given Amerca's influtenial place in worldwide politcs, how would this influence other countries' choices surrounding the UN? I would guess poorly. Addiitionally, the rights specified in the document are widely well regarded, and were picked with great intent. Going against them would mean going against many brilliant minds who were looking for the best way to help people.

I think 99.9% of people should have access to the rights outlined in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Every common person definitely should, but some criminals have comitted crmes so egregious that they do not deserve to seek sanctuary anywhere.]]> 2021-01-23 04:56:12 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1116391761 zulhafiz. penang island,malaysia https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1120010114 Nowadays, every country often faces the problem of immigrants from other countries.  However, because this pandemic is covid19 and also unforgettable, immigrants are stranded in every corner of the world.  The problem is the safety factor and the habit of immigrants will be the biggest problem we have to face.  I believe that as human beings we should give help to those in need in safety or health.  Humans act as human beings to help those in need.  Helping fellow human beings in finding peace, and a better life is our moral duty as human beings.  some immigrants are stranded due to global pandemics or have violated the laws of the countries visited causing them to be stranded.  This will be the biggest problem when they are oppressed and forced to follow cruel government orders.  I think we have the right to live in peacefully.  it is said that immigrants leave the country to become better people.  this is the best thing in our lives.  The problem that is often discussed is involving race or skin color, I think everyone should be treated well regardless of race or skin color.  A number of multi-racial countries are often racist.  In my opinion, a wise voice determines your future and security, so make sure you do not make choices and regret later.]]> 2021-01-25 02:20:14 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1120010114 Noel B, Cape Town, South Africa https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1130373013 I stand by the golden rule which is the principle of treating others how you would want to be treated. By putting yourself in other people's shoes it allows you to experience a sense of compassion and sympathy for others. If you were in a situation where you feel unsafe in your own country and the lives of your family members are at risk, you would want the freedom to safely immigrate to your desired country of refuge.

Unfortunately,  I feel that too often than not the life of an immigrant is treated as one that is less than or undeserving of the life that they desire in another country. As human beings it is our obligation to acknowledge the fact that we are all human and develop a sense of compassion for the struggles other people experience.

Furthermore , I do believe that we have a obligation to allow people seeking security and a better life to each of our nations. We should continue to fight for the human rights of others specifically the 'right to life, liberty and personal security' and the 'right of equality and freedom from discrimination'. Everyone has a right to human rights for the mere fact that we are human, but should never violate or stand by the violation of the human rights of others. ]]> 2021-01-27 08:06:43 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1130373013 Megumi F, Hiroshima, Japan https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1130471116 All humans should feel secured and  the environment that people seek better lives should be prepared in every country.  Some people live posting and saying aggressive things, but we should avoid using those words and it can be helpful for people who are not feeling secured. Understanding there are many kinds of people is also important. In my country, almost all of them have Japanese race and so doing different things is considered to be a bad thing. If we admit people that they are all different, it will be easier that people feel secured and seek better lives. 
Of course, we should support people coming from another countries. They should have many difficulties to go abroad. It is our responsibility to care and admit them.
Knowing and understanding the declaration is something necessary. I stayed in Sweden for 7 months and learned human rights, so I know the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, I do not think people in Japan know them. If you do not know it, you cannot comply. Also, know is one thing and understanding is another. Fully understanding prevents people from doing something out of the declaration.
I believe all should entitle the rights. Something connected to humans should not be taken away, and I think nationality is one of the things that is connected to humans. ]]> 2021-01-27 08:34:52 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1130471116 Ali M, Tyre, Lebanon alimmattout https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1131918284 Why should someone be deprived of his/her right? Aren't we all humans? This is a problem that mostly cant be solved among days. People have the right to feel secured, to live in a comfortable house not on the streets or under the stair way in a building or whatever. All of us seek a world/environment that wars cant reach it. I've seen many people lose all their right when they became refugees due to war in their homeland. Truly preposterous how most people behave and think. Why did the declaration of human rights took place in December 1984 if some people are not getting their righteous human rights that'll ease and improve their lives? The fact that refugees and immigrants are deprived of some of their privilege's really painful to see, they mean that they are beneath humans. They are not humans.....But can we solve this problem? Will we ever learn that all of us are the same no matter the race, religion, 🤬....]]> 2021-01-27 14:55:43 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1131918284 Sana / Hiroshima/ Japan https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1134081651
I think that  the responsibility for helping people in search of security means that we accept them as they are. As the United Nation’s Universal Declaration of Human Right, humans have liberty from the time of their birth. And all people can have all rights, including safety and education, without discrimination. it is natural to seek security and to accept those who want these fundamental human rights.  So I think that we have both freedom for fundamental human rights and obligations that we should accept fellow human beings in need.
However, especially, Japan, where people have relativity  all human rights, does not accept immigrations, it is the problem regarding to the Declaration. Japan should accepts them more for help them live in a comfortable life.]]> 2021-01-27 22:40:56 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1134081651 Lėja M, Alytus, Lithuania https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1138213783 2021-01-28 19:21:49 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1138213783 Nouhaila EG, Sale, Morocco https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1141165264 People who in search of security and better life should be welcomed by everyone. We should advocate social justice , help people who need use, give them clothes, food, work...etc. In Morocco, there is a lot of associations who help the people are in need of. Actually, there is no problem if they weren't here, we are enough for them. People here are generous  even if we not rich but we donate more. The islamic religion summon us to take care of people that are in need. It's doesn't mean we should give them a lot of fun money it's just by giving them comfort and nice things who will let them happy. ]]> 2021-01-29 15:47:48 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1141165264 Vanessa C, Boston, Massachusetts, USA https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1143080617 The UN’s Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 states that every person has the “right to seek and enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution” therefore it is our civic responsibility to help other human beings in search of security and a better life. However, our country hasn’t done the best job at upholding these values; with many people discriminating against immigrants who came to the United States seeking a better life and security. Too often, these people are associated with malicious things such as being criminals, drug dealers, and job-stealers. As a country, we need to work on not automatically associating these negative stereotypes with immigrants. I believe it is our responsibility to admit people seeking help/ a better life because it is in the UN’s Declaration of Human Rights and we would want other countries to do the same for us if we were in that situation. Everyone is entitled to these human rights because we can’t choose where we live or what our lives are like, therefore we all at the very least deserve basic necessities and a shot to perhaps start our lives over again in another country. If other countries comply with the UN’s Declaration of Human Rights, then everyone has some level of fairness.]]> 2021-01-30 06:30:02 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1143080617 Mehedi H S, Gazipur, Bangladesh. Mehedi https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1143530885
I think everyone who are in search of security and a better life should be welcome with open hands. A refugee is a person who owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race,religion,nationality,membership of a particular social group or political opinion.  Governments normally guarantee the basic human rights and physical security of citizens.  Refugees should receive at least the same rights and basic help as any other foreigner who is a legal resident and freedom from torture and degrading treatment.  Refugees are required to respect the laws and regulation of their country of asylum. In my Opinion,a wise voice determines your future and security, so make sure you do not make choices and regret later.]]> 2021-01-30 13:45:25 UTC https://padlet.com/freemanjud/uadgmw7hgm92u77c/wish/1143530885