The Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human family.  While human rights need to be vigilantly protected every day, December is the month dedicated to reminding us of their importance.

If you want students to grow in their awareness and practice of human rights in their worlds and around the globe, PBS LearningMedia is a great resource. For example, exploring the price of truth in times of war, No More Tears Sister is a story of love, revolution and betrayal.  Set during the violent ethnic conflict that has enveloped Sri Lanka over decades, the film recreates the courageous and vibrant life of renowned human rights activist Dr. Rajani Thiranagama. Mother, anatomy professor, author and symbol of hope, Thiranagama’s commitment to truth and human rights led to her assassination at the age of 35.   Supporting materials include learning objectives, discussion guide and a lesson plan from Point of View (POV), award-winning, independent documentaries on PBS.

Among many other PBS LearningMedia resources, Elie Wiesel: First Person Singular: Making a Difference offers students the chance to discuss the impact individuals/leaders can have on communities, research tolerance and human rights activists, and undertake a project that will make a difference in the community.

If you have a resource for teaching human rights or a story about how a particular PBS program works well in your teaching, we’d be happy to hear from you and share a lovely gift in return.