(((((((bkstyle audiophile))))))): 60 Years for the UN Declaration of Human Rights. Who’s Listening?
The United Nations was eerily quiet on the night it rang in its 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the east-side New York City headquarters. In one of the massive conference rooms decked with furnishings reminiscent of the Nuclear 50s, almost all the seats were empty.
A Universal Declaration without much fanfare. Photo by H'Rina DeTroy
But, instead of long, perfunctory speeches about promoting human rights, a screening of ten short films marked the 60th year of the Declaration. Perhaps the United Nations have hit upon a way to voice its good intentions as an instrument of diplomacy and accountability in global relations by relying on film makers to do what an entity like the UN can’t do as well — show instead of tell.
"A Water Tale" takes a place where there isn't any. Film by Francesco Jodice. Photo by H'Rina DeTroy
Obama’s victory is an example of how newer technologies can engage and fuel change. Here are a few ways to experience the UN Declaration with sound and visuals.
Afropop Worldwide collaborated with Amnesty International and others to present an hour-long online radio feature dedicated to the 60th year of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, featuring Femi Kuti of Nigeria and other World music artists.
“Read” the Declaration via Youtube, backed by a simple beat and melody:
