Introduction
In an era where the narrative of American exceptionalism often pervades, it’s imperative to scrutinize the nation’s performance on a global scale, especially concerning human rights. The recently released 2023 GRIP Annual Report, a collaborative effort between the Global Rights Project (GRIP) and the CIRIGHTS data project, offers a sobering evaluation of the United States’ commitment to human rights.
Assessing America’s Standing
The report, which evaluates 195 countries across various human rights metrics, paints a nuanced picture of America’s standing in the world. Divided into four categories—physical integrity, empowerment, worker rights, and justice rights—the assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of each nation’s adherence to fundamental human rights principles.
A Closer Look at Challenges
Regrettably, the findings reveal a widespread disregard for human rights globally, with 60% of countries receiving failing grades. In this landscape, the United States narrowly avoided a failing grade, scoring a 64 and ranking 59th overall. While this may seem favorable compared to some nations, it underscores significant room for improvement within America’s human rights framework.
One of the report’s focal points is the discrepancy between America’s perceived strengths in civil and political rights and its shortcomings in other areas. Specifically, issues such as torture, extrajudicial killings, and labor rights highlight areas of concern. Law enforcement’s use of interrogation techniques bordering on torture and the disproportionate use of lethal force against black Americans underscore systemic issues that demand urgent attention.
Connecting Personal Experience to the Larger Context
As we absorb these findings, it’s essential to reflect on how they resonate with individual experiences. In my case, as someone who has faced egregious and flagrant violations of fundamental rights and due process within the U.S. legal system, this report strikes a particularly poignant chord. I have endured due process violations, fraud against me, the kidnapping of my 5 year old child, state authorities engaged in perjury in courts against me, deception to paint a picture that never existed and still doesn’t exist, overt racism, poisoned while incarcerated, denial of medical care while incarcerated, assaulted by correctional officer while in Florence, Arizona, placed in a dog cage all day, deplorable living conditions, torture, witnessing law enforcement smuggle drugs and phones in prison, and witnessing multiple murders while I was in prison. And NO, I will never help any law enforcement with what I have seen.
My wrongful and unlawful conviction served as a stark reminder of the imperfections within America’s justice system. It exemplifies how individuals can become ensnared in a system that, despite its professed commitment to human rights, can perpetuate injustice and deny individuals their fundamental rights.
2016 (BEFORE) 2022 (INCARCERATED) 2023 (RELEASED) 2024 (TODAY)
A Call for Vigilance and Accountability
In light of these revelations, it becomes evident that the U.S. government cannot be trusted with more significant matters if fundamental human rights are not safeguarded at home. The need for transparency, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to upholding human rights cannot be overstated. Only through collective vigilance and concerted efforts can we hold our institutions accountable and ensure that justice prevails for all.
Finding Hope Amidst Challenges
Despite these challenges, the report offers a glimmer of optimism by positioning the United States favorably compared to other populous countries and geopolitical rivals. While not without flaws, America’s relatively stronger performance in certain human rights indicators serves as a testament to the enduring values enshrined in its founding principles. Yet the country is seeing a downward spiral with clear knowledge of violating human rights on account of race, color, sex, religion, and national origin.
Moving Forward Together
As we reflect on these findings, it’s crucial to recognize that human rights progress is not linear. The report’s insights serve as a call to action for policymakers, activists, and citizens alike to redouble their efforts in upholding and advancing human rights both domestically and globally.
In closing, let us heed the words of Skip Mark, director of the Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies, who aptly remarked, “There’s a lot of work to do in terms of ensuring that all people have a chance to live a life of dignity and respect.” Together, let us strive to build a world where human rights are not just an aspiration but a lived reality for all.
I am,
Ewing Redmond Samuels III