Respect for others

Across Saskatchewan, Canada, and around the world, Dec. 10 was recognized as International Human Rights Day. It marked the anniversary of the General Assembly of the United Nations’ adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. In recognition of the atrocities of the Second World War, International Human Rights Day stands as a testament against fascism, racism, and discrimination.

All provinces and territories in Canada recognize that discriminatory behaviour is an affront to our citizenship. While human rights commissions in Canada have many similarities, and they often learn from each other, they are also known for their individual successes.

Ontario is known for its support of seniors’ rights, Nova Scotia for its focus on mediation, and Saskatchewan for citizenship education.

An important right of citizenship is freedom of expression. In Saskatchewan, however, this freedom does not include expressions of hate, or the publication of extreme material that vilifies groups or individuals based on their race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or other prohibited grounds. Demonstrations of hatred, ridicule, belittlement and disrespect for the dignity of a person or persons are not right.

In Canada, we do have rights but those rights also come with responsibilities. Those responsibilities hinge on our ability to respect the rights of others. Responsibilities, rights, and respect — not only are these qualities enshrined in the heart of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, they are also at the heart of what it means to be Canadian.

David M. Arnot, Saskatoon Arnot is chief commissioner, Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.