In 1833, The American Antislavery Society adopted its Declaration of Sentiments. The Declaration was written by William Lloyd Garrison, an American abolitionist. Read the Declaration of Sentiments.
you will write your own Declaration of Sentiments for a current or past human rights issue. Some examples of human rights issues that you may choose include (but aren't limited to):
the Declaration of Sentiments:
DECLARATION OF SENTIMENTS OF THE AMERICAN ANTI-SLAVERY CONVENTION.
Done at Philadelphia, December 6th, A. D. 1833.
The Convention assembled in the city of Philadelphia, to organize a National Anti-Slavery Society, promptly seize the opportunity to promulgate the following Declaration of Sentiments, as cherished by them in relation to the enslavement of one-sixth portion of the American people.
More than fifty-seven years have elapsed, since a band of patriots convened in this place, to devise measures for the deliverance of this country from a foreign yoke. The corner-stone upon which they founded the Temple of Freedom was broadly this 'that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, LIBERTY, and the pursuit of happiness.' At the sound of their trumpet-call, three millions of people rose up as from the sleep of death, and rushed to the strife of blood; deeming it more glorious to die instantly as freemen, than desirable to live one hour as slaves. They were few in number poor in resources; but the honest conviction that Truth, Justice and Right were on their side, made them invincible.
We have met together for the achievement of an enterprise, without which that of our fathers is incomplete; and which, for its magnitude, solemnity, and probable results upon the destiny of the world, as far transcends theirs as moral truth does physical force.
In purity of motive, in earnestness of zeal, in decision of purpose, in intrepidity of action, in steadfastness of faith, in sincerity of spirit, we would not be inferior to them
Their principles led them to wage war against their oppressors, and to spill human blood like water, in order to be free. may be found in thousands of indisputable facts, and in the laws of the slaveholding States.
Hence we maintain that, in view of the civil and religious privileges of this nation, the guilt of its oppression is unequalled by any other on the face of the earth; and, therefore, that it is bound to repent instantly, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free.
We further maintain that no man has a right to enslave or imbrute his brother to hold or acknowledge him, for one moment, as a piece of merchandise to keep back his hire by fraud or to brutalize his mind, by denying him the means of intellectual, social and moral improvement.
The right to enjoy liberty is inalienable. To invade it is to usurp the prerogative of Jehovah. Every man has a right to his own body to the products of his own labor to the protection of law and to the common advantages of society. It is piracy to buy or steal a native African, and subject him to servitude. Surely, the sin is as great to enslave an American as an African.
Therefore we believe and affirm that there is no difference, in principle, between the African slave trade and American slavery:
That every American citizen, who detains a human being in involuntary bondage as his property, is, according to Scripture, (Ex. xxi. 16,) a man-stealer:
That the slaves ought instantly to be set free, and brought under the protection of law:
That if they had lived from the time of Pharaoh down to the present period, and had been entailed through successive generations, their right to be free could never have been alienated, but their claims would have constantly risen in solemnity:
That all those laws which are now in force, admitting the right of slavery, are therefore, before God, utterly null and void; being an audacious usurpation of the Divine prerogative, a daring infringement on the law of nature, a base over-throw of the very foundations of the social compact, a complete extinction of all the relations, endearments and obligations of mankind, and a presumptuous transgression of all the holy commandments; and that therefore they ought instantly to be abrogated.
We further believe and affirm that all persons of color, who possess the qualifications which are demanded of others, ought to be admitted forthwith to the enjoyment of the same privileges, and the exercise of the same prerogatives, as others; and that the paths of preferment, of wealth, and of intelligence, should be opened as widely to them as to persons of a white complexion.
We maintain that no compensation should be given to the planters emancipating their slaves:
Because it would be a surrender of the great fundamental principle, that man cannot hold property in man:
Because slavery is a crime, and therefore is not an article to be sold:
Because the holders of slaves are not the just proprietors of what they claim;
freeing the slave is not depriving them of property, but restoring it to its rightful owner; it is not wronging the master, but righting the slave restoring him to himself:
Because immediate and general emancipation would only destroy nominal, not real property; it would not amputate a limb or break a bone of the slaves, but by infusing motives into their breasts, would make them doubly valuable to the masters as free laborers; and
Because, if compensation is to be given at all, it should be given to the outraged and guiltless slaves, and not to those who have plundered and abused them.
We regard as delusive, cruel and dangerous, any scheme of expatriation which pretends to aid, either directly or indi-rectly, in the emancipation of the slaves, or to be a substitute for the immediate and total abolition of slavery.
We fully and unanimously recognise the sovereignty of each State, to legislate exclusively on the subject of the slavery which is tolerated within its limits; we concede that Congress, under the present national compact, has no right to interfere with any of the slave States, in relation to this momentous subject
But we maintain that Congress has a right, and is solemnly bound, to suppress the domestic slave trade between the several States, and to abolish slavery in those portions of our territory which the Constitution has placed under its exclusive jurisdiction.
We also maintain that there are, at the present time, the highest obligations resting upon the people of the free States to remove slavery by moral and political action, as prescribed in the Constitution of the United States. They are now living under a pledge of their tremendous physical force, to fasten the galling fetters of tyranny upon the limbs of millions in the Southern States; they are liable to be called at any moment to suppress a general insurrection of the slaves; they authorize the slave owner to vote for three-fifths of his slaves as property, and thus enable him to perpetuate his oppression; they support a standing army at the South for its protection and they seize the slave, who has escaped into their territories, and send him back to be tortured by an enraged master or a brutal driver. This relation to slavery is criminal, and full of danger: IT MUST BE BROKEN UP.
These are our views and principles these our designs and measures. With entire confidence in the overruling justice of God, we plant ourselves upon the Declaration of our Independence and the truths of Divine Revelation, as upon the Everlasting Rock.
We shall organize Anti-Slavery Societies, if possible, in every city, town and village in our land We shall send forth agents to lift up the voice of remonstrance, of warning, of entreaty, and of rebuke.
We shall circulate, unsparingly and extensively, anti-slavery tracts and periodicals.
We shall enlist the pulpit and the press in the cause of the suffering and the dumb
We shalt aim at a purification of the churches from all participation in the guilt of slavery.
We shall encourage the labor of freemen rather than that of slaves, by giving a preference to their productions: and
We shall spare no exertions nor means to bring the whole nation to speedy
repentance.
Our trust for victory is solely in God. We may be personally defeated, but our principles never. Truth, Justice, Reason, Humanity, must and will gloriously triumph. Already a host is coming up to the help of the Lord against the mighty, and the prospect before us is full of encouragement.
Submitting this Declaration to the candid examination of the people of this country, and of the friends of liberty throughout the world, we hereby affix our signatures to it; pledging ourselves that, under the guidance and by the help of Almighty God, we will do all that in us lies, consistently with this Declaration of our principles, to overthrow the most execrable system of slavery that has ever been witnessed upon earth; to deliver our land from its deadliest curse; to wipe out the foulest stain which rests upon our national escutcheon; and to secure to the colored population of the United States, all the rights and privileges which belong to them as men, and as Americans-
come what may to our persons, our interests, or our reputation whether we live to witness the trumph of Liberty, Justice and Humanity, or perish untimelv as martvrs in this great, benevolent, and holy cause
Declaration of Sentiments for LGBTQ+ Rights
Preamble:
We, the advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, gather here today to declare our sentiments and principles regarding the equal treatment and recognition of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Following in the footsteps of those who fought for the abolition of slavery, we acknowledge that the fight for human rights is an ongoing battle, and we firmly believe that all people are entitled to dignity, respect, and equal treatment under the law. This Declaration of Sentiments serves as a call to action, demanding justice and equality for the LGBTQ+ community.
Article 1: Equality and Non-Discrimination
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all individuals are created equal and have the right to be treated with fairness and dignity. No person shall be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic that is innate and immutable. We repudiate any laws, policies, or practices that perpetuate discrimination or harassment against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Article 2: Marriage Equality
We affirm that the right to marry is a fundamental human right that should be extended to all consenting adults, irrespective of their gender identity or sexual orientation. We reject any laws that deny same-sex couples the right to marry and access the same benefits, rights, and privileges as heterosexual couples. The freedom to love and establish a family should be enjoyed by all.
Article 3: Transgender Rights
We firmly believe in the right of transgender individuals to live their lives authentically and without fear of discrimination or violence. We demand legal protections that guarantee transgender people equal access to education, employment, healthcare, housing, and public accommodations. We reject any policies that deny transgender individuals their right to gender-affirming healthcare, legal recognition of their gender identity, or respectful treatment in society.
Article 4: LGBTQ+ Youth Protection
We acknowledge the vulnerability of LGBTQ+ youth and their susceptibility to discrimination, bullying, and harm. We call for comprehensive anti-bullying laws and policies that specifically protect LGBTQ+ youth in schools and educational institutions. We advocate for the creation of supportive environments that foster acceptance, provide mental health resources, and educate all students about LGBTQ+ issues to promote understanding and inclusion.
Article 5: Conversion Therapy Ban
We denounce the practice of conversion therapy, which seeks to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity through harmful and ineffective means. We support legislation that bans conversion therapy in all its forms, as it violates the rights, dignity, and mental well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. We call for greater access to affirming and inclusive mental health support for those struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Article 6: International LGBTQ+ Rights
We recognize that the struggle for equality extends beyond national borders. We commit ourselves to advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide and resisting laws and practices that criminalize or discriminate against them. We stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ communities everywhere and support organizations working to combat homophobia, transphobia, and all forms of discrimination globally.
Conclusion:
As we affix our signatures to this Declaration of Sentiments, we pledge to fight tirelessly for the full recognition of LGBTQ+ rights. Guided by the principles of truth, justice, diversity, and inclusion, we shall use our collective voices, resources, and influence to achieve equality and freedom for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In the pursuit of a more just and compassionate society, we remain resolute.
Declaration of Sentiments for Gender Equality:
DECLARATION OF SENTIMENTS OF THE EQUAL RIGHTS MOVEMENT.
The movement assembled in the name of gender equality, seize this opportunity to promulgate the following Declaration of Sentiments, as cherished by them in relation to the unequal treatment of women in society.
Whereas, for centuries, women have been denied their fundamental rights and treated as inferior to men, it is time for a profound change. Just as the founding fathers declared that "all men are created equal," we declare that all individuals, regardless of their gender, are born with inherent and inalienable rights.
We acknowledge that this long-standing oppression of women has been perpetuated through social, political, and economic systems, and it is our duty to rectify these injustices.
We believe that every person, regardless of gender, has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. No person should be deprived of these rights solely based on their gender.
We maintain that men and women are equal in their capacity for intellect, talent, and contribution to society. Therefore, it is essential that women have the same rights, opportunities, and protections as men.
We further believe and affirm that women have the right to bodily autonomy and control over their reproductive health. The ability to make decisions about their own bodies should not be subject to societal or governmental interference.
We reject the notion that women should be confined to traditional gender roles or limited to domestic responsibilities. Women should have equal access to education, employment, and leadership positions without discrimination or bias.
We condemn all forms of discrimination and violence against women, including sexual harassment, assault, and domestic abuse. These acts violate the basic principles of human dignity and must be eradicated from our society.
We maintain that women should receive equal pay for equal work. The gender wage gap is a profound injustice that must be addressed and rectified immediately.
We demand that all laws, policies, and practices that perpetuate gender inequality be abolished. The subjugation of women goes against the ideals of justice, equality, and human rights.
We urge the government, educational institutions, and community organizations to take immediate action to promote gender equality. This includes implementing comprehensive policies to prevent discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for all.
We commit ourselves to the cause of gender equality and pledge to challenge and dismantle the patriarchal systems that have marginalized women for far too long.
With unwavering determination and an unyielding belief in the power of justice, we hereby affix our signatures to this Declaration, vowing to fight tirelessly until gender equality is achieved – come what may to our persons, our interests, or our reputation.
To write your own Declaration of Sentiments for a current or past human rights issue, you can follow a similar structure and approach as the Declaration of Sentiments for the American Anti-Slavery Convention. Here are some steps to guide you:
1. Choose a human rights issue: Select a specific human rights issue that you want to address in your declaration. This could be any relevant topic, such as racial discrimination, gender inequality, LGBTQ+ rights, refugee rights, or indigenous rights.
2. Research the issue: Conduct extensive research to gather information about the history, current status, and key aspects of the chosen human rights issue. This will help you understand the context, challenges, and objectives related to the issue.
3. Identify key principles and arguments: Determine the fundamental principles and arguments that underpin your stance on the human rights issue. Think about the moral and ethical considerations, legal frameworks, and the desired outcome you want to achieve.
4. Draft an introduction: Begin your declaration with an introductory paragraph explaining the purpose, urgency, and significance of addressing the human rights issue. Provide a brief background and context to engage readers and establish the importance of your cause.
5. State the fundamental belief or principle: Clearly articulate the fundamental belief or principle that forms the basis of your declaration. This principle should reflect the essential rights and freedoms being violated or denied in relation to the chosen human rights issue.
6. Justify the principle: Present arguments and evidence supporting the chosen principle. Explain why it is essential, morally right, and aligned with existing human rights standards or legal frameworks. Use examples, statistics, and personal stories to illustrate the impact and importance of upholding the principle.
7. Outline specific demands or actions: Outline the specific demands or actions that need to be taken to address the human rights issue. These could include policy changes, legislative reforms, public awareness campaigns, education initiatives, or advocacy efforts. Be clear and concise in stating these demands or actions.
8. Address potential counterarguments: Anticipate and address potential counterarguments or criticisms related to your declaration. Acknowledge differing perspectives and provide evidence or reasoning to counter them, reinforcing the strength and validity of your position.
9. Conclude the declaration: Conclude your declaration by summarizing the key points and reiterating the urgency and importance of addressing the human rights issue. Emphasize the need for collective action and commitment to achieving justice and equality.
10. Sign and share the declaration: Invite others to join you in supporting the declaration by signing their names. Share the declaration widely through various platforms, such as social media, websites, and public forums, to raise awareness and gather support for your cause.
Remember to adapt the language, tone, and content of your declaration to resonate with the specific human rights issue you are addressing. Use inclusive and respectful language that appeals to a diverse audience and encourages unity in pursuit of justice and equality.