Citation of Honour for Monica Woodhouse
This recognition is not just a personal achievement but a reaffirmation of the critical importance of human and children’s rights in our society and the work done to protect and affirm such rights.
Monica Woodhouse was recently presented with a Citation of Honour award by the South African Human Rights Commission
In a world scarred by violence and hatred, the imperative to be peacemakers resonates profoundly with her.
She describes it as a divine mandate, reminding one of his or her responsibility to bring peace to a world in turmoil.
Monica said she was deeply humbled and honoured to receive this Citation of Honour.
It came as a result of her dedication to the advancement and protection of human rights.
This recognition is not just a personal achievement but a reaffirmation of the critical importance of human and children’s rights in our society and the work done to protect and affirm such rights.
“These rights are the foundation of our shared humanity, guiding us in our pursuit of justice, equality, and dignity for all, especially our children,” she said.
She extended her heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported her on this journey, God first, her family, colleagues, trustees and many, many friends.
“This award is a tribute to the countless children who have suffered and continue to suffer from the scourge of war, disease, pain, neglect, abandonment and abuse,” she said.
“It is a recognition of their resilience and a call to action for us to do more. I am grateful to the South African Human Rights Commissioner for acknowledging this work.”
Monica said she would continue to fight for children to be in secure families. “Children’s lives matter, yet they are often voiceless and overlooked. We, as duty-bearers and human beings, must ensure that decisions made for them are in their best interests.”
She emphasised that this is why her current work at the South African National Child Rights Coalition (SANCRC) is important.
“The mission of the coalition is to facilitate coordinated civil society communication and advocacy for a stronger national child rights governance system that ensures that children’s rights to survive, protection, to develop to their full potential and participate are recognised and advanced as a national rights-based, development priority by all role players.”
With over 130 members, the Coalition fulfils its mission by holding duty bearers accountable for safeguarding children’s best interests, among other initiatives.
“Human rights are not mere words on a page; they demand action. They require us to stand against injustice, speak out against oppression, and work tirelessly for a more just and equitable world, especially for our children.
This Citation of Honour is not the culmination of my journey; it is a reminder of the work that lies ahead.”
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