On the heels of one of the most historic Presidential Inaugurations in United States history, President Obama declares that the detention facilities at Guantanamo Bay will be closed by the end of the year. The implications of this act resonate with the international community at large and not least with those committed to the proliferation of Human Rights agendas. In taking such a step forward, President Obama and his administration demonstrate that policies of torture and injustice will not be tolerated in the years to come.

We at the UCLSHRP Bulletin applaud the recent actions taken by the United States and hope that the message is read by all peoples with encouragement. As we seek to expand our initiative to ensure that it reaches all those who wish to take part in its progress, however, we do not only look toward the successes in the world.

We remain cognizant of vast and continuing struggles in the Middle East and in Africa and we continue to report on injustices faced in all corners of the globe because with every success, we must remember that the work is never done. But the Guantanamo decision emboldens us with newfound commitment and we can move forward with our work knowing that the voice of the people is far from silent.