OTTAWA, December 10, 2018

Canadians value human rights as a cornerstone of a free and democratic society. Today, on Human Rights Day, we have the opportunity to reflect and strongly reinforce our commitment to respecting the fundamental rights of all people.

In 2018, as we mark the 70^th anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it is also an ideal time to remember the importance of this declaration that inspired the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Demonstrating our commitment to protecting human rights here and around the world, the Government of Canada is working to address past injustices. Every day, we aim to build a country that lives up to its ideals, for all Canadians.

Over the past year, federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for human rights met for the first time in nearly 30 years to discuss Canadian human rights priorities as well as ways that we can remain an international leader. In this regard, we continue to collaborate with national human rights institutions, civil society organizations and Indigenous groups to promote human rights and work for a more just, equal and inclusive society.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, I encourage everyone across the country to learn how human rights are protected in Canada and internationally, and continue to come together to advocate for diversity, equality, justice and dignity for everyone.