Shining a Light on Human Rights

Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.” ~ Malala Yousafzai

I went to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg for my first time on Tuesday. I’d heard many positive things about it, but nothing prepared me for the profound impact it would have.

A journey through darkness and light, the museum’s architect, Antoine Predock, embedded human rights symbolism throughout the structure. On First Nations Treaty One territory, the museum is committed to truth-telling. It acknowledges that acts of genocide have been committed against Canada’s Indigenous peoples. The mandate is to encourage thought and conversation about human rights globally. To manifest change.

Beyond the Beat, the temporary exhibit, showcased musical artists whose lyrics address human rights violations and who have risked arrest and persecution to take a stand.

A row of red dresses in a desolate forest, a memorial to missing and murdered Indigenous women, squeezed the breath from my lungs. My entire body froze for a few eternal seconds.

The holocaust halls retold the story of that dark abyss in human history. Horrific images of death and persecution against Jews, Romanians, disabled persons, homosexuals, men, women, and children. Lest we forget.

Dark stories were countered with light ones. Of men and women throughout history who have worked to ensure freedom and equality. The Canadian Journeys gallery explored injustice while paying tribute to leaders and activists who’ve never given up the quest for progress and change. 

I left feeling a myriad of emotions swirling around in my heart—grief, pride, and hope. I felt privileged. And I left with the knowing, that I would return again, soon, to learn more. I will be a part of the change, my pen in my hand.

The Canadian Museum of Human Rights has free admission every Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm.