The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Justice and Public Safety:

Mr. Speaker, as we approach International Human Rights Day on December 10, the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador is seeking nominations for the annual Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Award.

This award recognizes an individual, living or deceased, who has made and/or continues to make a meaningful contribution to advancing and furthering human rights in the province.

Mr. Speaker, each year the Selection Committee has the difficult task of choosing between very deserving individuals. In 2019, the Human Rights Award was presented to Jessie Lawrence, a 2SLGBTQ+ Advocate and Youth Activist while Bridget Foster was named Human Rights Champion for her over 30 years of service in the immigration/settlement sector. Other recent award winners include disability advocate Kim White, Innu Leader Anastasia Qupee and Joanne Thompson, best known for her work at the Gathering Place.

Mr. Speaker, our province is full of people who work tirelessly to advocate and advance human rights for marginalized populations in our communities. I encourage people to take some time and consider nominating community members, professional contacts, and anyone who has contributed to the diversity of our great province. The deadline for nominations is October 31 and details are available online at www.thinkhumanrights.ca.

Thank you.