November 20 is National Child Day, a day to commemorate the United Nations' adoption of two documents centered on children's rights: the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of the Child on November 20, 1959, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child on November 20, 1989. Today we celebrate the important role Canadian children and youth have in our society, and acknowledge the rights of children and youth to develop, thrive and reach their full potential.

Canada is committed to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, an international treaty supporting the rights of children and youth under the age of 18. Canadian children and youth have the right to healthy development, nutritious food, and protection from harmful influences. They have the right to have their voices heard, to play and rest, and to fully participate in family, cultural and social life.

Children also have the right to grow up in nurturing and safe environments and communities, and all Canadians have a role in ensuring that happens. In March 2018, Canada joined the Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children (End Violence), which includes organizations from every sector as well as children themselves in a unique collaboration focused on ending violence against all children. End Violence aims to build political will, accelerate action and strengthen collaboration. By joining as a Pathfinding Country, Canada has committed to developing a road map of actions to address violence against children over the next three to five years.

To demonstrate Canada's commitment to children's health, safety and wellbeing, Canada has agreed to be one of six End Violence Learning Sites, to develop and share evidence and knowledge about ending violence against children.

The Government of Canada continues to work with children and youth, and in partnership with the provinces and territories, Indigenous groups, non-governmental and community stakeholders, and international organizations to improve policies and programs that promote and protect the rights and wellbeing of children and youth.

This year, on National Child Day, we also recognize the work done by the Community Action Program for Children (CAPC), a community-based program that promotes the health and social development of vulnerable children from birth to six years old. For 25 years, community partners have supported children and their families in 3,000 communities across the country through referrals and access to public health and social services.

Today, I invite all Canadians to celebrate National Child Day by engaging with children and youth in discussions about their rights. For resources and activities, I encourage you to visit the National Child Day website. Together, let's help our children and youth reach their full potential.

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, P.C., M.P.

Minister of Health