Statement by Minister Wilson-Raybould on Human Rights Day

Today, I invite all Canadians to celebrate Human Rights Day. When the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, it marked the first time in history that a universal statement of human rights for all was articulated for the world over. Canada’s commitment to human rights is rooted in the belief that these rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated.

There has been significant progress on international human rights in the last few decades, but a renewed commitment is required to realize the full potential of human rights for marginalized groups who continue to face great challenges, including women and girls, Indigenous peoples, faith communities, people of colour, ethnic groups, LGBTQ2 persons, and persons with disabilities, among others.

All of us can make a difference, and change begins with each of us. When we defend our rights or the rights of someone else, we affirm what is best with Canadian society, and we strengthen our global community.