Harold D’Souza was recognized at the United Nations for his transformative journey from ‘Slavery to Stardom’. The 18th International Human Rights Summit, held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from July 18-20, 2024, marked a significant milestone in global efforts to promote and protect human rights. With the theme "Empower - Unite - Transform," the summit brought together delegates from over 75 countries, fostering a collaborative environment to drive change through human rights education.
One of the highlights of the summit was the powerful address by world-renowned human rights activist Harold D’Souza. Harold D’Souza left a lasting impression on the audience, which included international delegates, human rights advocates, and UN officials.
In his moving speech, D’Souza shared his personal journey and the transformative power of human rights education. “Addressing the United Nations is a huge honor and a blessing from Almighty God,” D’Souza told the press. His story, marked by resilience and redemption, deeply resonated with the audience. He humbly described himself as “a common man, a failure, and a sinner,” but his message of hope and empowerment was clear.
D’Souza moderated a distinguished panel discussion on "Human Rights in Action, featuring seven international experts: Otis Daye, Canada, Equity Consultant, Halifax Regional Center for Education, Caroline Hunter, USA, Co-Founder, Polaroid Revolutionary Workers Movement, Jaime Zablah, El Salvador, CEO, Factoria Ciudadana (Citizens Factory), Stephani Freed, USA, CEO & Co-Founder, Rapha International, Zaria Mazda, Venezuela/USA, Founding Member, Guardians of Human Rights Foundation, Dr. Lizbeth Eugenia Rosas Montero, Mexico, National System for the Comprehensive Development of Family (SNDIF), and Chelsea Hedquist, USA, Executive Director, Lantos Foundation for Human Rights & Justice. D’Souza also took the opportunity to honor Dr. Mary Shuttle worth, President of United for Human Rights and Youth for Human Rights International, for her unwavering dedication to the cause. D’Souza spoke at the United Nations that he failed on 4 P’s: I failed as a Parent, Provider, Protector and as a Person, but with the profound impact of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, created in 1948, his personal and professional life changed forever. “With education, empowerment, and enlightenment of the 30 Rights, I flipped the 4 P’sinto Passion, Purpose, Power, and Prayers,” D’Souza shared.
The summit provided a platform for D’Souza to engage with prominent figures, including Ambassador H.E. James Larsen, Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations, and Ambassadors from The Bahamas, Sri Lanka, USA, Democratic Republic of Congo, Bolivia, and Timor-Leste. These interactions underscored the collaborative spirit necessary to advance human rights globally.
Harold D’Souza’s journey from rags to riches, poverty to prosperity, and slavery to stardom is a testament to the power of resilience and human rights advocacy. His contributions were recognized with the Human Rights Hero Award in 2023, further solidifying his role as a leading voice in the fight for human rights.
The 18th International Human Rights Summit not only celebrated the progress made but also served as a call to action for continued efforts in human rights education and advocacy. As delegates departed, they carried with them renewed inspiration and a commitment to empower, unite, and transform their communities through the universal principles of human rights.
A Bollywood Biopic Blockbuster Silver Screen Film on an international platform is in the making on the life of Harold D’Souza from India to The White House. Today, Harold and Dancy D’Souza are the Co-Founders of Eyes Open International, a non-profit organization focused on prevention, education, protection and empowerment of victims, survivors, vulnerable population and community members worldwide.
Harold D’Souza’s journey from the depths of poverty and the grips of slavery to a celebrated figure at the United Nations stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. His unwavering commitment to human rights and his ability to transform personal adversity into powerful force for global change inspire us all to believe in the possibility of a better, more just world. D’Souza’s story reminds us that with passion, purpose, and perseverance, any obstacles can be overcome, and true heroism is within reach for us all.