05
Engaging Canada’s youth
What we heard
The Commission must inspire young people in Canada to become human rights leaders in their communities.
What it means
The Commission needs to help bolster awareness among Canada’s youth so they can stand up for their rights and the rights of others. This requires the Commission to consider its younger audiences in its planning and messaging.
“A culture of human rights begins with children and then expands. The perspective of young people is very important—and they are communicating differently.”
John Packer, Director
Human Rights Research and Education Centre, University of Ottawa
“It is difficult for our youth to speak out when they don’t have institutional and societal support around them. There is a need to educate our youth so they know their rights and so they can assert their rights.”
Omar Siddiqui, President
Canadian Muslim Leadership Institute
“We can empower our youth to be human rights ambassadors right in their own communities.”
Abram Benedict, Grand Chief
Mohawk Council of Akwesasne