Unforgettable New Exhibit Tackles Human Rights

A new exhibit focussing on the condition of human rights throughout the world will open at the Museum of Natural History in Halifax, on Sunday, Nov. 12. Titled, By What Right?, the exhibit will be featured until Jan. 7.

In 1948 the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was declared and it was indeed a great step forward in the history of humanity. Since then the situation has improved, but much still needs to be done.

By What Right? traces the struggles of men, women, and even children for worldwide recognition of fundamental human rights: life, freedom, dignity, equality and solidarity.

"This exhibit reminds us all of how lucky we are to live in Canada and how we must strive for basic human rights worldwide," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "By What Right? is both timely and significant as we enter the 21st century and prepare to recognize International Human Rights Day on December 10th."

By What Right? gets to the heart of the question with its forceful messages. Maps depict the weapon-producing countries, the countries where children are used as soldiers and countries where fundamental rights are violated. Video reports, specifically produced for the exhibition by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation correspondents in foreign countries, carry a high emotional charge. Each presentation is based on one of the declaration principles -- life, freedom, dignity, equality and solidarity -- and deals with current situations, and with some of the struggles for progress.

"The exhibit has an emotional impact on you," said Stephen Archibald, manager at the Museum of Natural History. "You become a witness to gripping stories of human rights abuses and triumphs."

Visitors are exposed to real life situations, such as: refugees, child labour, discrimination, poverty and hunger, torture, censure, invasions of privacy and wage equity. A wall of the missing is a reminder of those from all over the world and from all age groups, who have been murdered or tortured while defending human rights.

By What Right? was produced by Musée de la civilisation with the participation of the federal government and the gouvernement du Quebec, in collaboration with the Société Radio-Canada.

NOTE TO EDITORS--An advanced viewing of the exhibit is possible on the afternoon of Friday, Nov. 10, by calling 902-424-6513.