Nova Scotians selected for the annual Human Rights Awards
Posted Dec 11, 2023 10:18:16 AM.
Last Updated Dec 11, 2023 11:54:22 PM.
Two groups and four individuals were recognized at the 2023 Nova Scotia Human Rights Awards.
The awards are presented annually to recognize the important work of community organizers, grassroots advocates, researchers, educators and those who demonstrate a commitment to advocating human rights.
Recipients of the awards are selected by a committee from nominations that are submitted by their peers.
“The principles enshrined in human rights law have the power to unite us in our pursuit of equity and the protection of one another’s inherent dignity,” Joseph Fraser, director and CEO of Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission said in a release. “(The) award recipients exemplify a commitment to empowering people that all Nova Scotians should aspire toward.”
The Nia Summit Youth Ambassadors received the youth award for their leadership in planning the 2023 Nia Summit as well as facilitating community-building among Black youth and youth of African ancestry.
As well, The Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia received the group/organization award for its work to prevent the criminalization of women, girls and gender-diverse individuals.
Individual awards were also given to Veronica Merryfield for her advocacy in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and Sheila Wildeman for her advocacy regarding people with disabilities and people incarcerated.
