On December 10, we join organizations around the world in celebrating Human Rights Day. Since its declaration in 1950 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, Human Rights Day has drawn global attention to -and celebrated- the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which outlines a broad range of civil, political, social, cultural and economic rights. The Universal Declaration served as the model for our own Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. 

Human Rights Day is an opportunity to show solidarity in the fight to protect human rights and end discrimination and inequity here in Canada and around the world. 

The 2024 Human Rights Day theme is “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now”, a call to acknowledge the importance and relevance of human rights in our everyday lives. We all have a part in changing perceptions by speaking up against hate speech, correcting misinformation and countering disinformation. Now is the time to mobilize and be part of a global movement for human rights. 

For the past year, the UN has been celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) through their Human Rights 75 Initiative. This campaign showcases the legacy, relevance and activism of the UDHR. 

One of our fundamental tasks is to promote and protect the human rights of our members, staff and of all Ontarians. Part of that work is an ongoing commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression and to challenging systemic discrimination in all its forms. If you’re an ONA member who would like to be more involved in our Human Rights and Equity work, fill out our Expression of Interest Form and let us know if you’re interested in joining our Provincial Human Rights and Equity Team or our Anti-Racism Advisory Team.

Learn More

• ONA – Human Rights and Equity
• ONA – Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression
• Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
• Canadian Museum for Human Rights
• Ontario Human Rights Commission.