In many parts of the world, defending fundamental human rights can imply risk. This is true not only under dictatorial regimes, but also in some democracies undergoing a crisis. As Francis says, it requires courage to “actively” combat “poverty, inequality, the lack of work, land and housing, and the denial of social and labor rights.” This month, the Pope invites us to support those who willingly accept the consequences of defending fundamental rights in places where it isn’t easy, so that “they may see their sacrifice and their work bear abundant fruit.” Let us not leave them on their own. Pray, and share these words of the Pope so that those valiant people may feel accompanied in their work. 

 SCRIPT: “Defending fundamental human rights demands courage and determination. I’m referring to actively combatting poverty, inequality, the lack of work, land and housing, and the denial of social and labor rights. Often, in practice, fundamental human rights are not equal for all. There are first-, second-, and third-class people, and those who are disposable. No. They must be equal for all. In some places, defending people’s dignity can mean going to prison, even without a trial. Or it might mean slander. Every human being has the right to develop fully, and this fundamental right cannot be denied by any country. Let us pray for those who risk their lives while fighting for fundamental rights under dictatorships, authoritarian regimes and even in democracies in crisis, that they may see their sacrifice and their work bear abundant fruit”.