Nova Scotians Urged to Build Strong and Healthy Communities

HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION--Nova Scotians Urged to Build Strong and Healthy Communities

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission proclaimed today, Nov. 5, a Day of Reflection on Hope, Peace and Community. The proclamation was made at an interfaith breakfast at Province House.

In proclaiming the day, Premier John Hamm said that the world is facing a period of uncertainty.

"What could be more appropriate at this time than to focus on thoughts which can strengthen us in times of uncertainty -- hope, peace and community," said the premier.

Members of various faith communities spoke briefly at the breakfast about what hope, peace and community mean from their perspective. Commission chair James Dewar thanked them for caring about their communities.

"The thoughts we have shared this morning can have a powerful impact on the lives of other Nova Scotians we meet in the coming days and weeks," Mr. Dewar told the assembled faith leaders.

Mayann Francis, the commission's CEO, drew a link between supportive and inclusive communities and the well-being of all Nova Scotians.

"These communities are strong economically and spiritually and better able to promote health, education and achievement for their citizens," she said.

Well-known Nova Scotia singer-songwriter Terry Kelly performed at the breakfast.

Part of the commission's mandate is to be proactive in the areas of public education and outreach to increase awareness of human rights in the province. This was the third interfaith breakfast that Ms. Francis has held since becoming CEO in 1999.