On the 10th of December, the Sweden branch of
Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI-S) presented an opportunity to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights with international artists.
Besides Master of Ceremony
Samson Mande, European Human Rights Hero awardee, several renown human rights activists honored the event.
Norsang Drikung, leader of Tibetan Community in Sweden and
Dr. Elfatih Shora, member of International Rescue Nubia organization spoke about issues demanding solutions in their countries, while
Stig Johnell from Amnesty International took up several situations worldwide, including Sweden.
Honorary guest speaker
Mrs. Jacqueline Mukangira, Ambassador of Republic of Rwanda to Sweden and Nordic Countries highlighted the evening, who told stories of how her country has risen from genocide to a safe and prosperous land, setting a good example of finding constructive solutions to various problems.
The audience was entertained by a colorful concert of classical, pop and world music, dance from Africa, Asia, America and Europe. In the artist line-up, different ages, races, music styles and most of the continents were represented.
Latvian viola/piano duo
Ineta & Milda Zigure gave the concert a very aesthetic opening. Mrs Sonoko Kase's students from
Östermalm Private Music School performed Japanese children songs, piano and ballet pieces. Venezuelan born soprano
Gabriela Gonzáles-Toledo, who is also an active lecturer in Latin American music and culture, entertained with beautiful opera and musical songs. Hungarian folk singer
Andrea Gerak's choice of Romany National Anthem was perfect for the occasion and really hit home to the audience. Swedish singer-songwriter
Mimmi Siegel sweetened the mood while rock singer
Lizette& and
Nsako Afrodans, a group performing tribal music and dance from Uganda broke the floor with high energy sounds and moves.
The attendees appreciated the international diversity, the very informative speeches, high artistic quality and the relaxed atmosphere of the gala. The event concluded with the participating representatives expressing their intentions to further co-operate in order to make human rights a reality.
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YHRI-Sweden celebrates 60 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948-2008).
Click on photo to see more.
An old paper was found whith Andrea Gerak smiling on the cover. The photo and a short article appeared for the Sweden tour of Bartok Dance Ensemble in 1991, in the magazin of the Swedish Industrial Trade Union, Fabriks: