Introduction
On June 26, the world pauses to recognize the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, a solemn and powerful observance declared by the United Nations. This day reminds us that torture, in all its forms, is a grave violation of human rights, dignity, and justice.
At ThankWave.com, we stand in support of survivors, activists, and organizations who work tirelessly to eradicate torture and provide healing. Through compassion, education, and empathy, we can build a world where voices are not silenced and pain is not ignored.
Why June 26 Matters
The date marks the anniversary of the United Nations Convention Against Torture, adopted in 1987. In 1997, the UN General Assembly officially designated June 26 as a day to:
-
Speak out against torture worldwide
-
Support victims and survivors
-
Raise awareness about the ongoing fight for human dignity
Despite legal prohibitions, torture still exists in over 140 countries. That’s why our voices, messages, and solidarity matter more than ever.
Messages of Empathy & Support
💌 Support Messages for Survivors of Torture
-
“To every survivor: Your strength echoes louder than the pain inflicted upon you. We honor your courage.”
-
“You’ve endured the unimaginable, and yet, you stand tall. The world is better because of your resilience.”
-
“Your story matters—your healing journey matters. We see you. We support you.“
-
“In your silence, we find purpose. In your voice, we find hope.“You are not alone. You are never forgotten. You are powerful beyond measure.”
- “You are not alone. You are never forgotten. You are powerful beyond measure.”
Thank You Notes for Human Rights Defenders
-
“Thank you for defending dignity where it’s most at risk.”
-
“To the quiet heroes in war zones, prisons, and courtrooms, your work saves lives.”
-
“You stand for those who cannot stand. You speak for those silenced. Thank you.”
-
“In a world that too often turns away, you choose to confront injustice. We thank you.”
-
“Thank you for being the light in dark places, for speaking truth to power, even when it’s dangerous.”
-
“You give voice to the voiceless and strength to the broken. Your courage changes the world.”
-
“For every life you protect, every right you restore, and every soul you inspire, thank you.”
-
“Justice walks beside you because you never walk away from what’s right. Thank you, defender of hope.”
-
“Behind every peaceful protest, every rescued soul, and every reform, there’s a human rights warrior like you.”
-
“You risk your comfort, safety, and sometimes your life, so others may live free. The world owes you gratitude.”
Ways to Observe June 26
Take action, no matter how small, to stand with victims:
-
📢 Raise awareness on social media using hashtags like
#NoTortureor#June26 -
💸 Donate to organizations helping survivors (e.g., IRCT, Amnesty International)
-
📚 Educate your family and friends about human rights
-
✉️ Send thank you messages to human rights lawyers, doctors, or activists
-
🕊️ Light a candle or host a small peace vigil
What Is Torture?
Torture is the intentional infliction of severe pain, physical or mental authorities or individuals in power to punish, coerce, or extract information. It’s not just illegal. It’s inhumane.
Victims often suffer long-term trauma, including:
-
PTSD
-
Physical injuries
-
Social stigma
-
Displacement from communities
Powerful Quotes for Reflection
“The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.” – John F. Kennedy
“Torture is a crime under international law. Its prohibition is absolute.” – UN Human Rights Council
“Silence in the face of injustice is complicity.” – Ginetta Sagan
“Hope is stronger than fear, and the human spirit cannot be broken.” – Anonymous Survivor
“The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.” – John F. Kennedy
“Torture is a crime under international law. Its prohibition is absolute.” – UN Human Rights Council
“Silence in the face of injustice is complicity.” –Ginetta Sagan
“Hope is stronger than fear, and the human spirit cannot be broken.” –Anonymous Survivor
“Wherever men and women are persecuted because of their race, religion, or political views, that place must — at that moment — become the center of the universe.” – Elie Wiesel
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” –Edmund Burke
“Human rights are not a privilege conferred by government. They are every human being’s entitlement by virtue of his humanity.” – Mother Teresa
“It is not power that corrupts but fear. Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it.” – Aung San Suu Kyi
“No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.” – Article 5, Universal Declaration of Human Rights
“To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” – Nelson Mandela
“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“A right delayed is a right denied.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.” – Benjamin Franklin
Conclusion
The fight against torture is not just a legal battle—it’s a moral one. By standing with survivors, spreading awareness, and choosing empathy, we uphold humanity’s highest values.
Let’s make June 26 more than a date. Let’s make it a day of compassion, courage, and commitment to justice.
👉 Spread your support with a message. Say thank you. Say, we’ll see you. Say never again.
🔗 Visit ThankWave.com to explore more heartfelt messages and observances.