FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following message was issued today by Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Danny Soucy in recognition of New Brunswick Human Rights Day, Sunday, Sept. 15:
New Brunswick Human Rights Day is a day for all New Brunswickers to reflect on the progress we have made to ensure an equitable and welcoming province, where discrimination is prohibited.
It is also a time to rededicate ourselves to advancing human rights throughout our province. We must not only uphold our fundamental value of strong human rights, but we must continue to work towards changing discriminatory actions that, sadly, sometimes still occur.
The Human Rights Commission is 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 almost half a century, we have been witness to the evolution of human rights in our province and the resolve of the commission and its staff to advance and uphold our human rights has never waivered.
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. And, I am proud of the educators who make a difference by raising awareness and promoting inclusivity.
Each year, the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission recognizes an individual for their outstanding commitment to advancing human rights. The 2013 Human Rights Award was presented to John Wood of Oromocto.
As we rebuild New Brunswick, 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.
13-09-13