What is my role?

Governments are not the only ones responsible for upholding human rights. The UDHR states:

Every individual and every organ of society … shall strive by teaching and education to promote respect for these rights and freedoms and by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance.

This means that not only the government, but also businesses, civil society, and individuals are responsible for promoting and respecting human rights. As individuals we are both rights-holders and duty-bearers.  This means that we have both the right to be treated equally in dignity and justice, and also have the responsibility to treat others this way. 

Human rights will only be respected, protected, and fulfilled to the extent that individuals like you demand that they are.