WHEREAS, December is observed as both Universal and National Human Rights Month and December 10th is Human Rights Day; and

WHEREAS, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948, establishes the principles that underscore the shared commitment of the global community to safeguard the rights of every individual, irrespective of nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other status; and

WHEREAS, the observance of Human Rights Month throughout the month of December provides an opportunity for reflection, education, and action to promote and protect the rights and freedoms enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and

WHEREAS, the Universal Declaration includes 30 civil, cultural, economic, political, and social rights which promote universal respect for and observance of human rights; and

WHEREAS, the promotion of universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms contributes to social progress and better standards of living around the globe; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City is grateful for the work of our Human Rights Commission, and all that they do to eliminate discrimination and promote universal human rights in Salt Lake City; and

WHEREAS, for 2023, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation gave Salt Lake City a Municipal Equality Index (MEI) score of 100, the highest score of all cities in Utah; and

WHEREAS, the assurance of equitable treatment for all of Salt Lake City’s residents has been and will continue to be an ongoing priority for the Mayor’s Office.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim December 2023:

Human Rights Month in Salt Lake City

To view the electronically signed copy of the proclamation click here.