Speaking Rights is a new Equitas program that engages 13-17 year old youth in exploring human rights issues and identifying strategies to combat discrimination and exclusion while promoting respect for diversity. The program centers on the active participation of youth by developing their ability to discuss issues that are important to them and to work collaboratively on activities that community-build and solve conflicts peacefully. 
Speaking Rights grew out of an extensive needs assessment in Montréal in 2008 with youth and youth program worker. The program draws on the expertise of the Ville de Montréal’s Direction de la diversité sociale as well as representatives of various boroughs and other youth program providers in Montréal. Speaking Rights was pilot tested in five boroughs in Montréal and will now be offered to organizations serving youth across the city of Montréal.