Hillary Clinton's Elie Wiesel Humanitarian Award Speech
| Humanitarian Efforts | Historical Speeches | Social Justice |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
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Hillary Clinton's acceptance speech for the Elie Wiesel Humanitarian Award highlighted the importance of addressing human rights violations and the consequences of indifference. In her speech, she referenced Anne Frank's diary, using it as a poignant reminder of the horrors of persecution and the need for vigilance against such injustices. Clinton emphasized that indifference can lead to devastating outcomes, particularly for the youth, who are often the most affected by conflict and violence. She drew parallels between the historical context of the Holocaust and contemporary crises occurring in places like Sarajevo, Somalia, and Rwanda, where humanitarian issues were prevalent. By invoking these examples, Clinton aimed to awaken a sense of responsibility among her audience, urging them to take action against the suffering of others rather than remaining passive observers. This call to action was not only a reflection of her commitment to humanitarian causes but also a broader appeal to society to recognize and combat the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities worldwide.
Primary Reference: REMARKS BY THE FIRST LADY ELIE WIESEL HUMANITARIAN AWARDS, NEW YORK CITY April 14, 1994

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