2024 Human Rights Awards presented

Press Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The recipients of the 2024 New Brunswick Human Rights Awards were honoured during a ceremony at Government House in Fredericton today.

A Caraquet organization, Rendez-vous de la fierté Acadie Love, received the Human Rights Award and Merrit Johnson of Fredericton received the Youth Human Rights Award.

“Rendez-vous de la fierté Acadie Love and Merrit Johnson are true role models who eliminate barriers, challenge systemic injustices and advocate for the best interests of marginalized people, particularly members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community,” said Lt.-Gov. Brenda L. Murphy. “We are thankful for their sustained efforts, which have created more inclusive, equitable and respectful spaces for all New Brunswickers.”

“This year’s recipients exemplify what it means to be a human rights hero,” said commission chair Phylomène Zangio. “Rendez-vous de la fierté Acadie Love and Merrit Johnson have, through their tireless advocacy and educational efforts within their communities, made New Brunswick a better place to live for everyone, including 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.”

“We are proud of this recognition, and it comes at a timely moment,” said Suzanne Chiasson, vice-president of Rendez-vous de la fierté Acadie Love. “With the rise of hatred against 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, it reminds us of the importance of continuing to advocate for our rights, and that we can never take anything for granted, even in 2024.”

The francophone organization, founded in 2017, is dedicated to promoting equality and non-discrimination for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It organizes an array of initiatives to create an inclusive, safe and welcoming Acadian Peninsula, including an annual summer event celebrating French-speaking 2SLGBTQIA+ people in the province.

Johnson is a Grade 12 student at Fredericton High School who has demonstrated remarkable leadership in making her school a better place for 2SLGBTQIA+ students. She has helped build a more inclusive community through organizing anti-bullying initiatives and creating a variety of educational resources.

“I have been involved with gender sexuality alliances since the sixth grade,” said Johnson. “Over the years, they have given me a judgment-free space to explore my identity and connect with other students. Once I got to high school, I knew I wanted to be a part of maintaining that environment of safety and respect.”

The New Brunswick Human Rights Award was established by the commission in 1988 to mark the 40th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 2019, the commission created the Youth Human Rights Award to recognize the contributions of young New Brunswickers. Typically presented around Sept. 15 to honour New Brunswick Human Rights Day, the awards celebrate individuals and organizations who have advanced human rights, equality, diversity and inclusion in New Brunswick.

The award is a sculpture of walnut and maple, designed and crafted by Lawrence Wuest of Cross Creek, and is on permanent public display at Government House.

Media Contact(s)

Alexandra Fournier, senior education officer, New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, alexandra.fournier@gnb.ca.

ILR4