The John Peters Humphrey archive added to the Canada Memory of the World Register
Ottawa, December 5, 2023 – To mark the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (December 10, 1948), McGill University and the Canadian Commission for UNESCO are pleased to announce the addition of the archives of John Peters Humphrey to the Canada Memory of the World Register.
This archive includes the first handwritten draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as well as typed subsequent versions written by Humphrey (1905-1995), Canadian law professor and human rights advocate.
Humphrey was a Professor of Law at McGill University when he was invited to work with a committee of the United Nations Secretariat chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt to help the organization draft a statement on human rights. Following the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, Humphrey continued working with the UN in various roles, returning to McGill to serve as Professor of Law and Political Science in 1966. A French delegate claimed to have written the first draft of the declaration and was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1968. However, Humphrey’s first handwritten drafts were later discovered and published. He is now widely accepted as the Declaration’s first author.
The archive also includes Humphrey’s personal diaries, correspondence with colleagues, speeches, and lecture notes revealing his personal opinions and perspectives on Canada’s roles and responsibilities in supporting and implementing human rights. It offers further insight into his work as a human rights advocate who once said: "There is a fundamental link between human rights and peace. There will be peace on earth when the rights of all are respected."
On 10 December 2023, an exhibition titled "Beyond the Declaration: A Canadian Perspective on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights” will open at the Nahum Gelber Law Library. The exhibit, curated by Kristen Howard and Ana Rogers-Butterworth, will feature items from the John Peters Humphrey archive, including the original draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The John Peters Humphrey archive provides a unique behind the scenes look into the evolution of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the person who drafted it. Through the various drafts we can observe the additions and changes that arose from discussions with others, and gain appreciation that Canada had representation and influence in the development of this landmark work that enshrines the basic rights and fundamental freedoms of all. Mr. Humphrey's work is the cornerstone of the thinking and actions that will lead us to build a world that is more sustainable, more just and more equitable.
– Yves-Gérard Méhou-Loko, Secretary General, Canadian Commission for UNESCO
McGill University Libraries and Archives are deeply honoured and proud to have the John Peters Humphrey Fonds included in the Canada Memory of the World Register. The John Peters Humphrey Fonds is a remarkable collection that represents a rich tapestry of human rights history and embodies the legacy of one of McGill's most distinguished alumni. This recognition underscores the enduring significance of Humphrey's work and the essential safeguarding of this invaluable resource. In this spirit, we look forward to sharing the John Peters Humphrey Fonds with the world, ensuring that his efforts and the ideals he stood for continue to inspire and educate generations to come.
– Professor Guylaine Beaudry, Trenholme Dean of Libraries, McGill University
McGill University’s reputation for excellence is owed to the many people who, for more than 200 years, have made significant contributions that enrich our University’s history and have made a positive impact on our world. McGill alumnus and professor John Peters Humphrey is one such luminary. As the author of the first draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Humphrey’s contributions to the advancement of human society are as critical as they are enduring. McGill University is honored to have the John Peters Humphrey Fonds included in the Canada Memory of the World Register. This remarkable archive will serve as an inspiration within our community and beyond for years to come.
– Professor H. Deep Saini, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, McGill University
About UNESCO's Memory of the World Programme
UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme was initiated in 1992 to safeguard the world’s documentary heritage. The programme promotes universal access to materials with scientific, educational, aesthetic and cultural value.
Created in 2017, the Canada Memory of the World Register, administered by the Canadian Commission for UNESCO and which now counts 31 entries, provides universal access to our artistic, cultural, economic, geographic, linguistic, political, scientific, spiritual and identity-based heritage. It also highlights the importance of making these unique collections accessible to students, researchers and the general public. For more information about the Register or the Canadian Advisory Committee for Memory of the World, please visit: https://en.ccunesco.ca/our-priorities/memory-of-the-world.
About the Canadian Commission for UNESCO
The Canadian Commission for UNESCO (CCUNESCO) serves as a bridge between Canadians and the vital work of UNESCO—the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Through its networks and partners, the Commission promotes UNESCO’s values, priorities and programs in Canada and brings the voices of Canadian experts to the international stage. Its activities are guided by the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and other UNESCO priorities. CCUNESCO operates under the authority of the Canada Council for the Arts.
About McGill University
Founded in Montreal, Quebec, in 1821, McGill University is Canada’s top ranked medical doctoral university. McGill is consistently ranked as one of the top universities, both nationally and internationally. It is a world-renowned institution of higher learning with research activities spanning three campuses, 11 faculties, 13 professional schools, 300 programs of study and over 39,000 students, including more than 10,400 graduate students. McGill attracts students from over 150 countries around the world, its 12,000 international students making up 30% of the student body. Over half of McGill students claim a first language other than English, including approximately 20% of our students who say French is their mother tongue.
For more information, please contact:
Vanessa Poulin-Gladu
Manager, Public Affairs
613-862-1637
vanessa.poulin-gladu@ccunesco.ca