Canadian Tribute to Human Rights facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Canadian Tribute to Human Rights |
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| Canada | |
View of Canadian Tribute to Human Rights from the north
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| For Human Rights | |
| Unveiled | September 30, 1990 |
| Location | corner of Lisgar and Elgin streets near |
| Designed by | Melvin Charney |
The Canadian Tribute to Human Rights, also called the Human Rights Monument, is a large sculpture in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. You can find it at the corner of Lisgar and Elgin streets. A talented artist and architect from Montreal, Melvin Charney, designed it. The fourteenth Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, officially revealed it on September 30, 1990.
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What is the Human Rights Monument?
This monument is a special place dedicated to human rights. It reminds everyone about the importance of treating all people fairly. It stands tall as a symbol of freedom, justice, and equality for everyone.
Where is the Monument Located?
The Monument is right next to Ottawa City Hall. It is also close to the Parliament buildings. Because of its important location and meaning, many groups use it. People gather here to speak up for human rights. They protest against unfairness and for a better world.
What Does the Monument Look Like?
The Monument is over thirty feet tall. It is made of red granite and concrete. On its front, you can read a powerful message. It's the first sentence from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It says: "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." This is written in both English and French.
Inside the Monument, there's a part called the House of Canada. Here, words like "Equality," "Dignity," and "Rights" are etched. They appear in English, French, and 73 Indigenous languages. These words are carried by human-like figures.
How Was the Monument Created?
The idea for the Monument started on December 10, 1983. This day is known as International Human Rights Day. A group of Canadians wanted a lasting symbol for human rights. They were inspired by workers' struggles in Poland.
Building the Monument
Seven months later, a group called Canadian Tribute to Human Rights Inc. was formed. This group helped build the Monument. Many volunteers and staff worked together. They had support from nearly 400 groups across Canada. This included governments and businesses.
The land for the Monument was given in 1984. It was donated by the Regional Municipality of Ottawa-Carleton. Then, a national competition was held in 1985. Artists and architects from all over Canada submitted designs.
Choosing the Design
One hundred and twenty-nine artists entered the competition. A jury of experts chose the best design. In September 1986, Melvin Charney's design was picked. The jury loved his sculpture. They said it showed the struggle for human rights. They also liked how it fit with nearby buildings.
The site was officially dedicated on April 17, 1985. This day is called Equality Day. In November 1988, two young people broke ground for the Monument. Their names were Cheryl Tooshkenig and Megan Balciunas. Many people attended this ceremony.
What Does the Monument Symbolize?
The Canadian Tribute to Human Rights shows that art can make a difference. It can help people learn and act. The Monument highlights the importance of human rights in Canada. It is based on the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It also draws from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
A Powerful Symbol
The Monument is a strong symbol. It suggests a new way of thinking about power. This power comes from recognizing everyone's rights. It also comes from empowering individuals and communities. A strong community is built on equal rights and freedoms. It also protects the rights of minority groups.
The fight for freedom and justice has a long history. In Canada, we enjoy many freedoms today. These were won through generations of struggle. But there is still work to do to ensure everyone's rights are respected.
When it was unveiled in 1990, it was the first monument of its kind. It was dedicated to the fight for basic rights and freedoms. It shows Canada's promise to live in a fair society. This symbol aims to inspire leaders and teach children. It reminds everyone that human rights are the foundation of a good society. When everyone's rights are respected, we are all more secure.
Important Events at the Monument
The Monument has been the site of many important events.
Unveiling Ceremony
On September 30, 1990, the Monument was officially unveiled. An Algonquin elder, William Commanda, started the ceremony. This was special because the Monument is on traditional Algonquin land. The Dalai Lama then walked through the Monument's archway.
Nelson Mandela's Visit
On September 24, 1998, Nelson Mandela visited the Monument. He unveiled a plaque honoring John Peters Humphrey. Humphrey was a Canadian who helped write the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Mandela hoped the Monument would inspire people to work for peace.
Aboriginal Language Plaques
More recently, on June 21, 2010, more Aboriginal Language Plaques were unveiled. Important leaders spoke at this event. They included The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean. Leaders from Aboriginal communities also spoke. These included Shawn Atleo and Mary Simon.
Other Gatherings
The Monument is also a place for protests and rallies. People gather here to support different causes. They remember victims of historical events. They also raise awareness for important issues like HIV/AIDS.
Additions to the Monument
Over time, new parts have been added to the Monument.
John Peters Humphrey Plaque
In 1998, a plaque for John Peters Humphrey was added. He was a Canadian who wrote the first draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Nelson Mandela unveiled this plaque. It marked 50 years since the declaration was made.
House of Canada Plaque
In June 2011, another plaque was installed. This plaque tells visitors about the House of Canada. It explains the Aboriginal Language Plaques inside.
Future Plans
The Monument is almost complete. The team behind it plans to add special lighting. This will make the Monument stand out at night. It will also allow it to be used for events in the evenings.
