First we need to define the term human rights and also the term constitutional rights. A human right first started off as being “clear-cut dimensions in the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which almost all nations in the world have endorsed.” (pg 66) Human Rights also have to do with legitimacy on the human condition, which can be seen as vulnerability, and to have the motivation to a dignified life. Constitutional rights on the other hand have to do with receiving freedom from the government’s constitution and you cannot be legally denied by the government. Here in the United States our constitutional rights are also known as the Bill of Rights which started off as a binding with only the federal government. I believe that when we talk about or try to compare constitutional rights to human rights we all need to realize and accept the fact that there are universal human rights due to different constitutions in each state such as to bear arms.
After playing the game Against All Odds it made me open my eyes and realize a lot what is actually going on in other countries around the world. A lot of individuals are not as fortune and lucky like we are to have the rights we do to freedom, freedom of speech and so on. Just alone in the first section of the game I had already been warned that I did not answer all of the questions correctly and I could be sent to prison if they wanted to send me. In the second part of the game I was given a short period to pack up my belongings and before the army came and got me. I was only allowed a small bag and could only fit my wallet and passport. Playing these game just shows that we are very lucky to be living where we live and have all the rights that we do have.
When it comes to Universal declaration of human rights there is often serious objections and concerns. Many individuals argue that it is philosophical more than anything because all of your rights and what you believe in (values) are all controlled by cultural perceptions.
I think in order to raise awareness for issues to relating to the Justice and Injustices associated with citizenship, migration and human rights all around the nation and worldwide we need to make our voices heard. I personally believe that concerts are a great way to make a point clear about an issue happening and really makes your voice heard. For example after the earthquake in Haiti, singers, rappers, and celebrities put on concerts to help raise money to help all the individuals affected by the disaster. There were also help lines you could donate to as well. Both these concerts and hot lines played huge roles to help Haiti get back on its feet. I think that if singers, rappers and celebrities did the same thing just with a different message one focusing on human rights all over the world it would also make an impact. In book on page 75 it also talks about a bus protest in Montgomery, Alabama. I also feel that protests also can make your voice heard and get your message across clear because you are fighting for what you believe in with other individuals who feel the exact same way.
Overall, I think that we need to figure out away to help individuals in other countries being controlled by their governments like the characters in the game I played Against All Odds. I know this is easier said than done but it’s something I strongly believe that all individuals should be treated equal not matter what country they live in.
