All Human, All Equal: Celebrating Human Rights in Nova Scotia

December 10 is designated International Human Rights Day by the United Nations, and each year on or around this date the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission presents the Nova Scotia Human Rights Awards.

Today’s human rights champions are walking the path toward truth and reconciliation, addressing the harms of colonialism, and challenging racism and other forms of oppression and discrimination. Celebrating these activists, advocates, educators and community leaders is an endorsement of the incredible value they bring to our lives and an acknowledgement that their work is making a difference to Nova Scotians and generations to come.

The UN’s theme for Human Rights Day 2022 is “All Human, All Equal” and this seemingly simple principle is critical to ensuring each of us are afforded dignity in all facets of our lives. 

On December 9, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission will commemorate Human Rights Day at the Halifax Central Library’s Paul O’Regan Hall beginning at 9:00 a.m. including the presentation of the 2022 Nova Scotia Human Rights Awards. Two keynote speakers will bring their perspectives on the impacts of systemic discrimination on Indigenous, Black and African Nova Scotians. Community organizations will also be onsite following the event to showcase their work to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

ASL and CART live-transcription services will be available throughout the event.

Light refreshments will be served.

This event will also be live streamed via the Commission’s website, YouTube and Facebook.

Program

  • 9:00 Doors Open
  • 9:30 Opening
  • 10:00 Keynote Speakers
  • 11:00Human Rights Awards Presentations
  • 12:00 Closing

Keynote Speakers

Sharon Davis-Murdoch is a founding member and the Co-President of the Health Association of African Canadians. She also co-managed the Association of Black Social Workers and Health Association of African Canadians, COVID-19 Response and Impact Team. She received the Order of Canada in 2021 in recognition of her work battling health inequality and injustices.

Wyatt White is the Associate Executive Director with the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq. Wyatt’s career has spanned First Nations community development. He has also worked with all levels of government in leadership roles focusing on Indigenous Affairs and Education.