Everyone knows that as soon as Halloween ends, we’re bound to begin hearing Christmas songs and see candy canes around the local Walmart. Aside from the holidays, though, what’s so special about December? I’m glad you asked!
December actually has a lot to do with our work. Earlier this month, we had the International Day of People with Disabilities. This plays a large part in our roles as caregivers/supported living staff. According to the day’s official website, www.idpwd.com.au, December 3rd was dedicated for the event by the United Nations in 1992. Although the website is Australian, the United States does participate in the event. The US may not participate as much, but it’s definitely worth keeping in mind. As Reside employees, our life revolves around these people, so, while it is no longer the third, let’s remember that it’s still important! Maybe you can put it on your calendar for 2015!
We all know that December is the best time to experience cheer and joy. Of course, a large part of this comes from the Holiday feel of the month, but it could also be from the fact that December is the Universal Human Rights Month. This month’s importance goes so far beyond what we do. Of course, our clients come first, and our job is to recognize them as people—just people—and, unfortunately, not everyone is as gifted as us to see how wonderful these people are. But, again, this goes beyond what we do. Allow me to explain. After World War II and the devastation of all the events that took place, including but not limited to the holocaust, the United Nations was put together, and The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was made in 1948. This consisted of 30 articles which gave grounds to basic human rights around the world. If you don’t know or haven’t heard of this before, I urge you to look at it. Again, it’s so immensely important, and the background of it isn’t something that should be forgotten. There’s a reason there was a month dedicated to human rights. Take a look here: www.un.org/Overview/rights.html.
I hope everyone is having a wonderful December so far! Enjoy the holiday season, the lovely time with family. Make sure to read through the articles of Human Rights and perhaps look up some history on it. It’s not something to be forgotten.
