Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
RECEPTION FOR WORKING IN SUPPORT FOR EQUALITY (WISE) MANITOBA
Government House
Thursday, November 16, 2023, 5:00 p.m.
(please check against delivery)
Members and supporters, advocates of equality for WISE Manitoba – welcome to Government House and this celebration of dedication to a better Canada.
As Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, it is my pleasure to gather with you here in the heart of Treaty One land and the heartland of the Red River Metis.
In a province with large and vibrant Indigenous communities – including the Anishinaabe, Cree, Dakota, Dene, Inuit and Metis peoples – advocacy for equality and justice for women and girls is a vital part of the work toward reconciliation, fairness and opportunity for all Manitobans.
Canadians are rightfully proud of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms with its protections for fundamental freedoms, democratic rights, mobility rights, legal rights, equality rights, official language rights and minority language educational rights. The 40th anniversary last year of the signing of the Charter commemorated one of the most important dates in our history.
But we also know that achieving and protecting equality isn’t a one-time thing.
Establishing the meaning and application of the Charter has taken decades of legal work and public advocacy across our country, and for 30 years.
WISE Manitoba has played an essential role in translating the language of the Charter to day-to-day reality.
And it’s not enough to define and refine the meaning of the Charter – just as important is educational work to ensure that Canadians know their rights. After all, you can’t defend your rights if you don’t know what they are.
WISE Manitoba’s educational work – such as your No Means No and Youth in the Workplace programs – help to ensure that the legal achievements of the last forty years will continue to benefit Canadians for the next forty years and beyond.
These and your many other programs in advocacy and mentorship are possible only through the passionate commitment of your supporters and volunteers.
To all who dedicate their energy, their expertise and their valuable time, I thank you for continuing to breathe life into the Charter. Our province and our country have made important strides towards equality and justice through your efforts.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich.
