Landmarks across New York State will be illuminated in blue on December 10 to mark International Human Rights Day, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The annual observance commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which outlines rights entitled to all people regardless of background or identity.
Governor Hochul stated, “On this International Human Rights Day, our state is proud to have a history leading the nation in advancing human rights — but the fight for equality is far from over. That’s why this past year, my administration invested a historic $11 million into the New York State Division of Human Rights to lead a wholesale agency modernization, increase staffing levels, and develop new units to better position New York State to protect the fundamental human rights you deserve.”
New York’s Human Rights Law is recognized as both the oldest and among the most comprehensive anti-discrimination statutes in the United States. It is enforced by the State Division of Human Rights, which marks its 80th anniversary this year.
Denise M. Miranda, Esq., Commissioner of the New York State Division of Human Rights said, “In 1945, New York State passed the first state-level, anti-discrimination law in the nation. Today, the New York State Division of Human Rights proudly builds upon that legacy as a nation-leading human rights law enforcement agency. The New York State Division of Human Rights remains committed to protecting all New Yorkers from discrimination, hate and bias.”
The following landmarks are set to participate in this recognition: One World Trade Center; Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge; Kosciuszko Bridge; H. Carl McCall SUNY Building; State Education Building; Alfred E. Smith State Office Building; Empire State Plaza; Main Gate & Expo Center at State Fairgrounds; Niagara Falls; Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Hudson Bridge; Grand Central Terminal’s Pershing Square Viaduct; Albany International Airport Gateway; East End Gateway at Penn Station (MTA LIRR); Fairport Lift Bridge over Erie Canal; Moynihan Train Hall and Roosevelt Island Lighthouse.
The Division of Human Rights continues its mission by providing avenues for individuals who believe they have experienced discrimination to report their cases via phone or through its website dhr.ny.gov. The agency also offers resources for those affected by hate or bias incidents.
