Christians and Human Rights

Question 1

Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Answer 1

Abuse: the South African government introduced a strict policy of racial segregation (apartheid): Whites oppressing the non-whites
He asked himself, “What can I do?” His answer was to become a priest in the Anglican Church and become a leader against the system of apartheid
He led peaceful protests calling for economic sanctions against South Africa following the police open-fire on 10,000 high school students in 1976. His strategy was to stop investments into South African business.
Due to this cunning strategy and protests throughout the country, apartheid was ended in 1991

Question 2

Lord Shaftesbury

Answer 2

Abuse: conditions of work for children
He worked endlessly, despite his primary bill being rejected, until the Factory Act was passed which meant that no children under the age of nine could work, It also stated that children between nine and thirteen could only work for forty-eight hours a week and they must go to school part time.
He became chairman of the Ragged Schools Union. This was a charitable organisation that dedicated themselves to giving free education to destitute children in the 19th Century. It also provided free food, clothes, lodging and other necessary services for these children.

Question 3

Actions by Christians Against Torture (ACAT)

Answer 3

Aims to work as Christians to increase awareness for the use of widespread and evil use of torture worldwide and to campaign for its abolition
They work to obtain information on specific examples of torture world wide, to write letters to governments in countries where torture is practised calling for its abolition, to support the victims of torture and ill treatment, to pray for the tortured and the torturers and to keep abreast of legislation relating to torture.

Question 4

Christians Solidarity Worldwide (CSW)

Answer 4

Work for the freedom of religion, aiming to challenge and change the laws, behaviours and policies that reinforce religious discrimination and persecution.
They do this by accurately reporting to the UK and US government with evidence-based research.
They champion religious freedom for all countries in which they work.

Question 5

William Wilberforce

Answer 5

Abuse: the Slave Trade
Converted Evangelical Christianity
Put up a strong fight against slavery and the Slave Trade
Gain the support of many in Parliament
From 1789 he continuously and regularly introduced bills in Parliament against the Slave Trade
He continued to fight against slavery and was rewarded on the 26th July, 1833, when the Abolition of Slavery bill passed its third reading in the House of Commons