President`s Message

We are lucky to live in Canada. We live in a democracy that respects the basic rights and freedoms of everyone. We can freely elect our leaders. We can criticize our politicians openly, without fear of repercussion. We have the right to practice (or not) any religion we choose. We have the right to be free from discrimination based on personal characteristics such as race, ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age or disability. We can associate with whomever we choose. We are free to express our opinions and beliefs, even if controversial. Our media is not controlled by the state and can scrutinize government. Our judicial system is independent and impartial.

So why is it important to support organizations like MARL whose mission is to promote respect for and observance of fundamental human rights and civil liberties? What do we need to worry about?

Complacency, for one thing. While we are fortunate not to face flagrant human rights violations on a daily basis as might happen in a dictatorship, we cannot take our rights for granted. Historically, Canada's human rights record is far from spotless. Think of the Chinese head tax aimed at restricting Chinese immigration to Canada. Or what about the basic right to vote? Women could not vote in federal elections until 1918 and Canadians born in Asia could not vote until 1948. In fact, Aboriginal people living on reserve did not have the right to vote until 1960.

Affronts to basic human rights are not merely historical relics. More recent events should cause us all to question potential threats to our rights and freedoms. For example, is it legitimate for police and security officials to resort to racial profiling in the post 9/11 era? Is pepper spray a proper response to political protest? Should newspapers and libraries shy away from publishing controversial cartoons which some Muslims find offensive? What use should be made of security cameras in public places? To what extent should religious practices be allowed in public schools? These are just a few examples.

Fortunately, we live in a society that is generally tolerant and respectful. Often, questions involving human rights today are controversial, with no obvious answers. But they are no less important. Unless we stay engaged, we may find our rights slowly eroding away. This is especially so for minority groups which typically wield less political power.

enshrines our fundamental rights and freedoms in the Canadian Constitution. But it is only through constant vigilance, education, discussion and debate that we can ensure these rights are not undermined and indeed flourish, on a day to day basis.

On that note, MARL is always looking for new members and volunteers who are willing to help promote human rights and civil liberties in Manitoba. Whether you enjoy advocating for a cause, educating people, fundraising, writing letters or articles, researching issues, raising awareness or simply helping with the day to day running of an organization like MARL, there is something for you. Please feel free to contact me or our Executive Director, Valerie Price for more information about MARL and volunteer opportunities. Don't take our rights for granted. Get involved!