Human Rights in Nova Scotia Shaped by Marshall’s Fight for Justice

Donald Marshall Jr.’s fight to clear his name and find justice for a wrongful murder conviction significantly shaped human rights in Nova Scotia.

"Reflecting on Marshall’s death we are reminded of the recommendations of the Royal Commission on the Donald Marshall Jr. Prosecution 20 years ago that called for changes to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act," said Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission Director and CEO Krista Daley, today, Aug. 7.

The Royal Commission Report of 1989 called for the establishment of a Race Relations division within the commission and for the provision of sufficient resources to carry out its mandate and added responsibilities.

The amended Act assigned the commission the authority "to promote racial harmony and to eliminate barriers to the full participation of members of racial minorities in society" through the development of programs and policies. In accordance with the Act, the commission was also given the mandate to assist government, organizations, and the private sector with policies on race relations and to monitor their implementation.

The Act was also changed in 1991 to include Aboriginal origin as a prohibited ground of discrimination.

"I believe there is more recognition for human rights in Nova Scotia today because of the expanded education and policy work of the commission, which was brought about as a result of the Marshall Inquiry," said Ms. Daley. "We have Mr. Marshall to thank for his courage and conviction in fighting for justice."