Hon. Marty Klyne: Honourable senators, each year on December 10, we join people around the world in marking International Human Rights Day, which is the anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

Eleanor Roosevelt famously called it the “Magna Carta of all mankind.” The declaration established a shared global commitment to dignity, equality and justice for every person. Canada played a central role in its creation; Canadian lawyer John Peters Humphrey authored the first draft. His study of democratic traditions laid the groundwork for one of the most translated and influential human rights documents in history. Humphrey understood its profound promise that governments everywhere could now be held to a common human rights standard — one that continues to shape Canadian laws and values here and around the world. The protection of human rights has continued, including here at home with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms of 1982.

Internationally, in 2007, after nearly 25 years of global leadership and collaboration from Indigenous Peoples in Canada, the world adopted the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, or UNDRIP. UNDRIP clarifies how inherent rights — equality, culture, land and self-determination — apply to the unique situations of Indigenous Peoples. The document affirms the collective and individual rights essential to their survival, dignity and well-being.

In 2021, with Bill C-15, Canada began the implementation of UNDRIP, which was a transformational shift. Parliament’s decision responded directly to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Calls for Justice of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. UNDRIP is our framework for mutual respect and reconciliation. Indeed, I recall some senators vowing to observe and practise one Call to Action daily. I hope you’re still keeping that up.

Senators, the message carried through every universal human rights instrument is simple and profound: Leave no one behind. We all benefit when justice is upheld; when all people are safe, valued and protected from discrimination; when all nations are free; and when every person can live with dignity, well-being and hope for a brighter future. On this International Human Rights Day, let us reaffirm Canada’s commitment to uphold our common humanity through universal legal rights, to remain a light in the world against the darkness of hatred and to continue with endless resolve the march toward truth, justice and reconciliation. Thank you. Hiy kitatamihin.

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!