The United States ratified some international human rights treaties and signed (but never ratified) others. This activity explores which rights carry legal protection — and which ones remain unprotected.
Part A — The Rights Audit (15 minutes)
Look at the rights in the table below. Before reading the "U.S. Status" column, mark each right as one you think you hold legally, or one you think you do not. Then compare your answers to the actual status.
| Right | Treaty | U.S. Status |
|---|---|---|
| Freedom of speech | ICCPR | Ratified |
| Fair trial | ICCPR | Ratified |
| Privacy | ICCPR | Ratified |
| Right to work | ICESCR | Not ratified |
| Right to health | ICESCR | Not ratified |
| Freedom from torture | CAT | Ratified |
| Right to education | ICESCR | Not ratified |
| Political participation | ICCPR | Ratified |
| Right to social security | ICESCR | Not ratified |
| Freedom of religion | ICCPR | Ratified |
Part B — Class Discussion (20 minutes)
Your teacher will lead a discussion. Consider these questions:
- What pattern do you notice in which rights the U.S. committed to?
- Why might a country protect some rights but not others?
- The ICCPR (ratified) covers civil and political rights. The ICESCR (not ratified) covers economic, social, and cultural rights. What does that distinction tell you?
Part C — Personal Reflection (15 minutes)
Write one paragraph responding to this prompt:
"Which unprotected right would change your life most if the U.S. committed to protect it? Explain why, using a specific example from your own experience or community."
[Your response — use additional paper as needed]