Human Rights Day 2025

Today, on International Human Rights Day, we honor and stand with migrant workers, including Filipino workers, and reaffirm their rights and dignity.

December 10 is observed as International Human Rights Day to mark the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. The UDHR outlines the fundamental rights to which every human is entitled simply by being human. Yet today, millions of people still lack access to these rights, and the promise remains unfulfilled for many migrant workers.

Filipino migrant workers are forced to migrate from the Philippines due to poverty and unemployment to pursue better economic opportunities. In the United States, they work across sectors, caregivers, nannies and housekeepers, restaurant and bodega workers, often performing essential work that support families and the US economy. Despite their contributions, their rights are violated, their labor is exploited, and many are subjected to labor trafficking and modern day slavery. 

On Human Rights Day, we affirm what should never be negotiable: migrant workers deserve dignity, respect, and full protection of their rights. Their humanity should not depend on their immigration status or country of origin.

Damayan continues to advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to live without fear today and every day. Join us in standing with our vulnerable kababayans and ensuring they live with the dignity and respect they deserve.