Six Recipients of 2024 Human Rights Awards.
Five individuals and one group were recognized with Nova Scotia Human Rights Awards at an event today, December 10, in Halifax.
The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission presents the awards annually on or around International Human Rights Day (December 10) to acknowledge the courageous work of Nova Scotians who advance human rights in the province.
“Human rights advancements are often achieved through the grassroots efforts of individuals and community organizations such as the award recipients we recognized today,” said Joseph Fraser, Director and CEO, Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. “They demonstrate the potential each of us hold to disrupt the status quo and influence positive change.”
Youth awards were presented to:
- Jemma Bowers, Sydney Mines, in recognition of her work creating supportive and inclusive communities for youth, educating others and championing awareness and understanding of human rights
- Caelin Lloyd, Halifax, in recognition of his work as a mentor, advocate and leader fostering understanding, inclusion and protection of the rights of youth who are blind or living with sight loss.
Laura MacDonald, Halifax, received the individual award in recognition of her lifelong leadership, resilience and advocacy for the rights of seniors and persons with disabilities.
Jude Clyke, Truro, received an award named in honour of the late Burnley Allan (Rocky) Jones in recognition of his leadership and advocacy to foster a supportive community for African Nova Scotian and Black youth and adults, through his volunteerism in sport, culture and in pursuit of access to justice.
Rosalie Francis, Indian Brook, was presented the Wel-lukwen Award in recognition of her leadership in the protection and advancement of Mi’kmaq rights as an academic, researcher and advisor.
The Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association received the group/organization award in recognition of the organization’s work advancing the rights of those experiencing homelessness.
Quick Facts:
- the Nova Scotia Human Rights Awards are presented annually to recognize the important work of community organizers, grassroots advocates, activists, researchers, educators and others who demonstrate a commitment to advancing human rights
- recipients are selected by a committee from nominations that are submitted by their peers
- Wel-lukwen (Well-loog-wen) is a Mi’kmaw word which loosely translates to “Congratulations, you are doing extremely well. Your work does not go unrecognized.”
Additional Resources:
Nova Scotia Human Rights Week: https://humanrights.novascotia.ca/nshrw2024
More information about this year’s award recipients is available at: https://humanrights.novascotia.ca/NSHRA2024
The awards ceremony can be viewed at: https://humanrights.novascotia.ca/news-events/events/nova-scotia-human-rights-awards-presentation-international-human-rights-day.
Source : Provincial Release
