Marc Miller, Member of Parliament (Ville-Marie–Le Sud-Ouest–Île-des-Sœurs), today announced that the Government of Canada is providing funding of $1,036,856 to Equitas, valid until 2018.
As we will be celebrating Canada’s 150th anniversary next year, we will use the funding to engage youth in a national dialogue around the values that we want to see in our communities. We will develop a civic engagement model that will include projects with 60 community-based organizations, municipalities, 300 staff and 6000 youth across the country.
Key partners include: YMCAs, Boys and Girls Clubs, immigrant-serving organizations (Victoria, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver and PEI), Indigenous organizations, and municipalities.
Mr. Miller made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage.
“This significant support is consistent with one of our government’s priorities: to build an integrated, socially cohesive society by promoting civic memory and pride, as well as respect for our fundamental democratic values.”
—The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
“I am very pleased to announce this support for Equitas. This funding will allow young Canadians to reach their full potential in our society, and to contribute to the quality of life of their community.”
—Marc Miller, Member of Parliament (Ville-Marie–Le Sud-Ouest–Île-des-Sœurs)
“2017 marks both the 150th anniversary of the Confederation and Equitas’ 50th anniversary as Canada’s oldest and most active human rights education organization. The support from Canadian Heritage will allow us to expand youth leadership opportunities across Canada, and engage young Canadians as solution-makers in building more inclusive and equitable communities”
—Ian Hamilton, Equitas Executive Director
Speaking Rights participatory education activities create opportunities for positive youth interaction. Through youth-led action projects, youth (15-24 yrs) gain valuable knowledge about rights & responsibilities as Canadians, the importance of cultural diversity and values (e.g. respect, equality and acceptance) that underpin Canadian society. Youth develop self-esteem, critical thinking skills, a sense of belonging, and strategies to collectively engage decision-makers and communities on diversity issues.
