When we talk about "are upheld," we refer to something that is supported or maintained. However, there are many other synonyms to describe this same concept. For example, "are sustained" could be used to indicate that something is maintained over time. "Are honored" means that a certain value or principle is respected and followed. "Are defended" suggests that something is protected from being challenged or attacked. Finally, "are retained" refers to the idea that something is kept or preserved in its original state. These synonyms can be used interchangeably to express the idea of maintaining or supporting something.