Candlelight Vigil Marks International Human Rights Day in Moncton

On a chilly Tuesday evening outside Moncton City Hall, candles flickered as human rights activists gathered to mark International Human Rights Day. Organized by Citizens for Peace, the vigil expressed solidarity with those facing human rights violations both locally and globally.

Alicia and Alonzo Léger, event organizers, emphasized the community's responsibility to address social issues. "When we see people unhoused, it’s up to the community to change the situation,” said Alicia. She also urged action against conflicts stemming from gender or faith-based discrimination.

Alonzo highlighted a concerning rise in anti-immigrant and anti-Indigenous sentiments. “We’ve lost the capacity to be civil to each other… I was quite surprised how fast that turned,” he remarked. He urged locals to build cultural bridges, even if it means stepping out of their comfort zones.

The gathering’s modest turnout was noted, though Alicia expressed hope for greater community engagement. "I’d love to see the plaza full tonight with candles," she said.

Citizens for Peace has also organized rallies supporting Palestinian human rights amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

Human Rights Commission Overwhelmed, Says MLA

Earlier in the day, New Brunswick MLAs recognized International Human Rights Day in the Legislative Assembly. Lyne Chantal Boudreau, Minister responsible for Women’s Equality, marked the conclusion of a 16-day campaign against gender-based violence.

Green Party MLA Megan Mitton raised concerns about housing discrimination, citing persistent issues despite legal protections. She criticized the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission’s long wait times, calling for its independence and increased funding to address mounting complaints.

A Local Legacy in Human Rights

International Human Rights Day commemorates the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, proclaimed by the United Nations on December 10, 1948. New Brunswicker John Peters Humphrey, a legal scholar and UN human rights director, penned its first draft. His legacy continues to inspire global advocacy for human rights.

This year’s Human Rights Day theme highlighted the importance of integrating human rights into daily life. The UN called for collective action against hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation.

David Gordon Koch is a journalist with the NB Media Co-op. This reporting was supported in part by the Government of Canada through the Canadian Association of Community Television Stations and Users (CACTUS).