True equality starts from the recognition that every person is unique--like the cherry, plum, peach and damson blossoms. Equality means that each person is able to fully manifest his or her individuality; and democracy should impartially give all people this opportunity.
Human rights will only become truly universal and indivisible when they span the most basic, existential division--that of self and other. And this can only occur when both the right to and duty of humane treatment are observed, not in response to externally imposed norms, but through spontaneous action stemming from the naturally powerful desire to assist our fellows whose ability to live in a humane manner is under threat.
Human rights start with recognizing the importance of every individual. Peace starts from fostering friendship with others.
The real question is whether we look at human life from the point of view of the nation or of life. The "eyes of the nation" are quick to reduce people to numbers and inanimate objects, enslaving human life to the interests of those in power. But the "eyes of life" look at each individual as precious, irreplaceable and unique.
To discriminate against others in any way is to discriminate against your own life.
People who trample on others' rights, no matter how respectable they may seem, are merely barbarians. Respect for human rights is a barometer of civilization.
When stones are cast at good people, when the rights of honest, hard-working people are trampled, we should be angry! When anyone anywhere around the world discriminates against another, we should burn with indignation! Raise your voices! Nothing suits the authorities better than the apathy of the people, than their feeling of powerlessness and their acceptance of violations of human rights.
Human rights, democracy and peace are a single entity. When one disintegrates, they all disintegrate.
The champions of human rights inevitably face persecution from the entrenched authorities and the powers that be. This is a constant of history; it is inescapable. All victories for human rights have been won as the fruit of such struggles. Therefore, it is necessary to always view things from a long-range perspective. By so doing, one becomes able to perceive the essence of the matter, and to see the broad path to victory that lies ahead.
