The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948, is arguably one of the most powerful tools for peace ever bestowed on mankind. Created at the end of World War II, it was conceived at a crucial moment when member UN governments sensed their vulnerability in the face of an uncertain future. Behind them was one of the most gruesome displays of intolerance in history and ahead was an even more daunting threat of thermonuclear obliteration. Contents

We feature in our cover story the work of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International and its artist members to advance community, social and human rights causes — work that was celebrated at their 33rd anniversary gala in Hollywood. Contents

Scientologists, collectively renowned as a drug-free community, have been actively fighting the drug problem for decades. Churches of Scientology have helped hundreds of thousands to free themselves from the destructive and debilitating effects of drugs and toxins in our environment. Scientologists and Churches of Scientology also support Narconon, a secular drug rehabilitation program with real results, featured in this issue. Contents

As a city and nation unified by shared ideals, we can no longer count upon government alone to resolve our most crucial problems. Contents

All too often the pain and suffering witnessed in the media or in the neighborhood involve young people - as victims, perpetrators or both. As important as children are in the game of life, it appears that the deck is sometimes stacked against them. Contents

In this issue, we report on effective community-based programs which are enabling people to become literate and dig their way out, to free themselves from the shackles of drugs, and to shut the door on a life of crime. These programs are flourishing in the Los Angeles area and Freedom is proud to highlight them for our readers. Contents

The world's first Church of Scientology was founded in Los Angeles by a handful of people in 1954. Today, more than 20 Churches and Missions and hundreds of full-time staff serve parishioners in Southern California. Worldwide, 43 years after the first Church was established, Scientology is improving life in every corner of the globe - as is its mission - with more than 8 million members in over 100 countries. Contents