We must not let discrimination go unchecked in our communities

On International Human Rights Day, let’s not ignore the difficult truth: discrimination continues to exist in our own backyard.

Canadians have made it clear: human rights for all must be treated as a priority in our society.

If we are to make meaningful change for Canadians living in vulnerable circumstances, we must not only hold our decision-makers accountable, we must also demand better of ourselves. We cannot let our guard down. We cannot take our human rights for granted. We must not let discrimination and prejudice go unchecked in our communities.

The Canadian Human Rights Commission applauds the recent launch of the inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls as a long-awaited step in the right direction. But an inquiry alone won’t solve this deeply complicated issue. It is going to require concrete action. And it will require a renewed focus on trust, collaboration, responsibility and respect.

People in Canada living in vulnerable circumstances are counting on all of us to help them make for themselves the lives they are able and wish to have, free from discrimination.

If ever there was a country that could come together to ensure that all its citizens are treated with equality, dignity and respect, it is Canada. Everyone deserves a seat at the table. My Canada includes everyone.

Marie-Claude Landry, Ad. E., Chief Commissioner, Canadian Human Rights Commission