Why join the Human Rights Committee

Do you care about human rights? Does injustice make you angry? Transform your caring energy into action by joining the NEEDHAM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE.

Volunteering for human rights is expressing the essence of human rights ideas as articulated in Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which reads: We are all born free and equal in dignity and rights, are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in the spirit of brotherhood.

Expanding one's circle of compassion by caring for others enhances personal and spiritual growth. The Needham Human Rights Committee (NHRC) is committed to reaffirming the worth and dignity of every human being. Committee members come from different backgrounds with many characteristics, beliefs, and affiliations representing the diversity of our community. Guided by its mission, the Committee promotes and celebrates the diversity of our community while advocating respect for others - regardless of their differences - through education, community response and community outreach.

The Needham Human Rights Committee was established in 1995 by the Board of Selectmen to deal with human rights issues in our town. At that time, fair housing was one of the primary concerns. Over the years the Committee has taken on issues relevant to the needs and interests of the Needham Community, and has made efforts to inform the public about state and global human rights issues. Topics and subjects of interest to the Committee (sometimes in collaboration with other organizations) have been: immigration, same-sex marriage, discrimination, treatment of students in our school system, expanding community knowledge about a specific culture or religion, the Armenian genocide, the METCO program, and the distribution of hate messages targeting specific groups within the Town of Needham.

We are seeking greater participation from Needham residents. Consider the possibility of serving on the Committee! In volunteering for the Human Rights Committee, you are not only helping others but strengthening your connection to the community, gaining new skills, and enriching your personal and professional life. History has shown us that if enough people put their minds, time, and energy into a cause, they can change society for the better. ~ Written by Olly Harari, past member, on behalf of the NHRC.

Complete a Committee Interest Form

 "There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest." - Elie Wiesel