On October 24, 1945, the United Nations ratified the UN Charter of Human Rights, which “reaffirmed faith in fundamental human rights, and dignity and worth of the human person.” The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was later adopted by the UN General Assembly in Paris on December 10, 1948.

Gather a nickel, dime, quarter, and dollar coin. Canadians add a toonie, Americans a half-dollar. Whatever you buy, let these coins remind you of our diversity as a human race. Every coin is different, and each has value. Be mindful. From now on, with each purchase and every coin you receive, make your pledge to value diversity:

I am my own member state of the
United Nations. I abide by the UN
Charter and promote “universal
respect for, and observance of, human
rights and fundamental freedoms for
all without distinction as to race,
sex, language, or religion.” So be it.

Read the charter at www.un.org/en /universal-declaration-human-rights.