Home Institution

Trinity University

Publication Date

Spring 2011

Program Name

Spain: Language, Community, and Social Change

Abstract

This short essay revolves around the definitions and defense of Human Rights in the Spanish city of Granada. As a sociology major, I chose this topic because I desired to observe and to learn about a social phenomenon happening in this diverse and rich city. Similarly, while Granada has and is experiencing social issues like immigration, I am from an area of the same multicultural roots. As such, I saw a connection in how the society is grappling with issues of how to enforce and secure Human Rights for those that desperately lack them. This opportunity presented itself and I saw no better option. My methodology for uncovering these definitions and the manner of defense was quite organic. After a meeting with APDHA, the Andalusian Pro-Human Rights Association, I found all the necessary sources at my reach. I attended additional APDHA reunions and sponsored events to gain a firsthand view into how they function. To gather the definitions, I used primary sources such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (of the UN) and Charter of Fundamental Rights (of the EU), amongst other sources. This paper unfolds as follows, in order to understand the inherent importance of Human Rights, one must first recognize the existence of two elemental components, the well-known concept of Human Rights, evidenced by idealist definitions written by high governments and the substance or how they are actually implemented, referencing the prevalent lack of Human Rights in Granada. Once one understands the two components, one can clearly see the large disparity between the two, thus creating a necessity that must be filled. This is where APDHA comes in, as an organization working in the area, their inclusion is necessary. I outline three of the groups APDHA works to secure rights for and highlight how these groups lack essential rights. Finally, I end this analysis by briefly highlighting APDHA’s work process and network. Through this ongoing observation and later investigation, I have truly learned about the Human Rights struggle in Granada from both facets, that of the legal definitions and the reality. Furthermore, this project has been utterly invaluable in strengthening my language skills, while concurrently adding to my cultural experience.

Disciplines

Family, Life Course, and Society | Inequality and Stratification | International and Area Studies | Politics and Social Change | Sociology

Download

Share

Article Location

 
COinS