FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following message was issued today by Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Martine Coulombe in recognition of New Brunswick Human Rights Day, Saturday, Sept. 15:

This year, Sept. 15 marks the 10th anniversary of the declaration of New Brunswick Human Rights Day. As the minister responsible for the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, I encourage all New Brunswickers to reflect on the progress we have made, and the problems that still sadly persist. It is our day to rededicate ourselves to advancing human rights throughout our province.

For 45 years the Human Rights Commission has been responsible for administering New Brunswick's Human Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, colour, national origin, place of origin, ancestry, religion, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, social condition, political belief or activity, sexual orientation and sex.

I am proud of the accomplishments of all commission members, past and present, for their tireless efforts in advancing human rights in our province. I am also proud of all New Brunswickers who embrace the ideals of equality and who in their everyday activities strive to make our province a more peaceful and harmonious place to live.  

Two such New Brunswickers were recognized this year by the commission for their outstanding commitment to advancing human rights. The Pioneer of Human Rights Award was presented to Lorraine Silliphant and the 2012 Human Rights Award was presented to Ralph Thomas.

Every human being deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, and as New Brunswickers it is essential that we continue to uphold this fundamental value.

We must continue our strong commitment to remove barriers and to provide equal opportunities to all, in order to ensure that our generation and those who follow us can live in freedom, security, prosperity and equality.


13-09-12