The first week of the International Human Rights Training Program is now over…. …and what a week it was! 96 participants from more than 45 countries safely arrived in Montreal and have successfully completed the first week of their training. The Opening Ceremony on Monday evening, June 6, featured inspiring speeches by Patricia Malikail (Global Affairs Canada) and Equitas’ Executive Director Ian Hamilton and Director of Programs Frédéric Hareau.
“This work takes courage, sacrifice and support. Canada is proud to support you.” said Patricia Malikail to 2016 IHRTP participants.
Two former participants, Joyce Deloge and Abderrahmane Haddad, shared their experiences and their commitment towards human rights education in a panel discussion facilitated by Equitas’ Education specialist Jean-Sébastien Vallée. The evening continued with a meal and… lots of dancing!
ArtLords – “The voice of the voiceless “
ArtLords is a non-governmental organization from Afghanistan that aims to “bring down Kabul’s ugly blast walls” by painting images and messages of hope and peace over them. The exhibition was followed by an (indoor) BBQ and the painting of a huge collective mural designed by Omaid Sharifi.
The first thematic session was held on Thursday June 9, led by Marc Forget and Lloyd Lipsett, on the subject of business and human rights. The week concluded with the Host Family Dinner which sees Montrealers open their homes to offer participants a taste of Canadian home cooking.
Week #2 is now in full swing and will see participants’ schedules full of intensive training classes, special sessions on LGBTQI rights, Indigenous rights, the UN Human rights system and many special events! For more on the 2016 IHRTP, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and browse our hashtag #IHRTP! Learn more on how you can support Equitas here! – Blogpost by Juliette Deshormes, Communications Assistant for the 2016 IHRTP