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Global Learning: Resources for Students: Civil and Human Rights

This guide provides access to a variety of print and electronic resources on global topics.

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What Are Civil Rights?

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) states that "civil rights are personal rights guaranteed and protected by the U.S. Constitution and federal laws enacted by Congress, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Civil rights include protection from unlawful discrimination."

Available at https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/faqs/what-are-civil-rights/101/index.html

What Are Human Rights?

The United Nations definition:  "Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status. Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more.  Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination".

Available at https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/human-rights

In essence, human rights are rights that essentially belong to all persons; race, sexual orientation, disability, religious affiliation, or educational level should have no impact on the human rights of each individual.