Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton released the following statement today:

“Tomorrow marks International Human Rights Day, recognizing the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This day allows us to pause for reflection on the progress that has been made in our province.

“Human rights is a journey, not a destination. One hundred years ago, our province held a referendum that led to women getting the vote in provincial elections. Recently, I shared the stage with Chief Justice of Canada Beverley McLachlin and federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould to mark this milestone, and also to recognize that not all women got the vote at that time. Equality and human rights for Aboriginal and Asian women were not realized until much later. The UN’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a major milestone for universal franchise in Canada.

“Our government has continued to demonstrate leadership in promoting human rights and improving access for British Columbians to protection of their human rights. In 2003, our government strengthened human rights by moving to a direct-access Human Rights Tribunal – a tribunal that is recognized as a national leader in the protection of human rights.

“The move to direct access means we have reduced case delays and strengthened human-rights protection that is more accessible, timely and affordable. It means that each year, the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal helps more than 1,100 British Columbians resolve discrimination claims and receive dispute resolution services.

“In addition, B.C’s Human Rights Clinic delivers public education and information, as well as early resolution and advocacy services to support human rights protection under the B.C. Human Rights Code.

“This past summer, our government strengthened the Human Rights Code further with amendments to include “gender identity or expression” among the protected grounds covered by the code. 

“We have come a long way since the adoption of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, but there is more to be done. Respect for human rights is a responsibility of us all and requires our active contribution. I am proud of our government’s record of ensuring the protection of human rights, and encourage all British Columbians to reflect on and celebrate International Human Rights Day 2016.”