Nominations Sought for Human Rights Award

Partners for Human Rights and the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission are looking for nominations for the 2009 Human Rights Award.

The award recognizes an individual or organization that demonstrates a significant contribution to advancing or protecting human rights.

"Protecting and promoting human rights is not just the job of the commission, but a shared responsibility of all Nova Scotians," said Krista Daley, director and CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. "There are people throughout the province that have really embraced this notion because they care about their communities and want to make the province a better place. The award is about recognizing their contribution and thanking them for it."

African Nova Scotian Affairs Minister Percy Paris received the award in 2005, in recognition of his work promoting respect for difference in sports and adult education and efforts to eliminate barriers to participation in communities for persons with disabilities in sport, learning and creating businesses.

"It was a proud moment for me to realize my contributions to Human Rights were recognized and appreciated," said Mr. Paris. "Everyone should consider individuals they know in their community who have made a contribution and nominate them."

Nominations should relate to this year's International Human Rights Day event theme Stand Up for Hope.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, Oct. 30. For nomination forms, visit the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission website at www.gov.ns.ca/humanrights/ . Nominations can be forwarded by e-mail to [email protected] or faxed to 902-424-0596, attention Linda Nicholl.

Partners for Human Rights members will consider the nominations and forward recommendations to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.

The award will be presented at the International Human Rights Day event, Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Indian Brook School, near Shubenacadie.