‘The Price of Silence’: Fulfill the promise of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights


Introduced by Lawrence Fishburne, this music video brings together 16 of the world’s top musicians — some of whom have fled oppressive regimes — in a rousing musical plea to guarantee human rights for all. The track, donated by Aterciopelados and arranged by fusion music guru Andres Levin, combines the voices of Stephen Marley, Angelique Kidjo, Hugh Masekela, Julieta Venegas, Yungchen Lhamo, Aterciopelados, Yerba Buena, Natacha Atlas, Rachid Taha, Kiran Ahluwalia, Chiwoniso and Emmanual Jal with those of U.S. artists Natalie Merchant, and Chali 2Na of Jurassic 5. Buy the video direct from iTunes to support the work of Amnesty International.

The United Nations unanimously passed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 60 years ago today, on Dec. 10, 1948, after the horrors of World War II. This powerful declaration says that every human being deserves dignity, freedom and respect. It’s the first blueprint for global rights, establishing fundamental freedoms for every human being. The UDHR set in motion a global movement that literally opened prison doors, shut down torture and execution chambers and caused the downfall of the worst tyrannies. Sixty years later, millions are still denied basic human rights. Many governments still show more interest in abusing power than respecting those they lead. For far too many, injustice, inequality and impunity are still the hallmarks of our world today. We have work to do! May these young people inspire our struggle!