Today is December 10 and it is Human Rights Day. We have achieved so much when it comes to equity-related issues but more needs to be done. At present, it is easy to get caught up with all the cynicism out there because of the following five reasons:
- women are still being mistreated, verbally, physically, and sexually;
- young mothers are being told to stay at home to care for their children but what they need is a good job to afford basic living necessities;
- racialized people are still fearful for their lives;
- people with disabilities are not being hired even though existing language in job postings call for equal opportunities;
- Aboriginal people are still fighting for the right to protect and use the land that is rightfully theirs.
CEOs continue to make bucket loads of money. As a result, the general public has the impression that these corporations are solely responsible for job creation. However, it has been proven that CEOs are not the creators of jobs. It is us, the consumers of products who create these jobs and help to keep the economy going. So, the debate continues with this important question: Why does income inequality exist? The same question of unfairness applies to healthcare, youth employment, environmental protection, corporate taxes, trans rights, senior care, pension upon retirement, veteran care, and many other equity issues that need to be seriously addressed and debated. Policies for the betterment of all Canadians should not only be implemented but also enforced.
Our current economic climate indicates that these are pressing times for many. It is up to us to question our leaders regardless of their political affiliations and make them listen to us. If you are displeased, you can express it in an appropriate manner. It should also be in a way that effectively communicates the injustices and unfairness of the situation. Social media can be tapped as a resource to get the message out. Nevertheless, the most effective way to show our displeasure is to vote for a party that represents the values for fairness and transparency. We need politicians who respect our Canadian history and its roots in human rights advocacy, both locally and abroad.
At present, there are strong feelings of anger, frustration, and hopelessness. They have been escalating because our country is lost. Our land is crying to be healthy again. Our flag is bleeding from the many injustices that have been committed. Our people are begging for services to be returned or better yet, improved. These include sustainable, permanent jobs that provide fair living wages and access to better health care. In spite of all of this, hope continues to persevere. History has repeatedly shown that whenever the will of the people rise, we overcome many adversities. One of them is our right to vote.
The federal election is coming! My hope, this time around is that people will vote for real and positive change. When it is time for you to cast that ballot, think about which platform will fairly address the needs of the public. We need to work harder to reverse the damage that has been done by the current government. You can do that be enforcing change with your vote. Use your voice and be proud that you have done your due diligence.
Your vote is your voice. Make your rights count.
Marco Costa
Chair, Provincial Human Rights Committee (PHRC)