ItB次元官网网址檚 not every day that an organization welcomes such a big name in their respective field.
This year, the Vancouver Island Human Rights Coalition (VIHRC) hosted B.C.'s first independent human rights commissioner, Kasari Govender, as this yearB次元官网网址檚 keynote speaker at their 2024 annual general meeting. Taking place at the Victoria City Hall, she addressed the organizationB次元官网网址檚 members on Sept. 10.
Among those delighted by her presence was Pamphinette Buisa, VIHRCB次元官网网址檚 managing advocate.
B次元官网网址淲e [were] thrilled to welcome commissioner Kasari Govender,B次元官网网址� she said. B次元官网网址淎s an organization working directly with individuals facing discrimination, human rights violations, and injustices, we look forward to a fruitful discussion on the trends and issues highlighted in the report.B次元官网网址�
Central to GovenderB次元官网网址檚 talk was the report B次元官网网址楻ights in Focus: Lived Realities in B.C., published by B.C.B次元官网网址檚 Office of the Human Rights Commissioner, on Aug. 14.
B次元官网网址淪he spoke [about] housing, the educational system, employment, health care, child welfare and different inequalities in those areas,B次元官网网址� said Buisa.
Serving primarily as an educational tool, the executive director said the report provides an invaluable guideline for people and organizations working in the field of human rights.
Buisa highlighted that several topics during the commissionerB次元官网网址檚 address were particularly eye-opening.
B次元官网网址淲hen it came to the right to housing there was a disproportionate impact on marginalized groups including people with disabilities, indigenous people and women,B次元官网网址� said Buisa. B次元官网网址淲hen it came to education, it was quite shocking for me to see how only 78 per cent of students with disabilities and 75 per cent of Indigenous students are finishing or completing secondary school.B次元官网网址�
VIHRC is a community organization with a mission to promote and strengthen local human rights in BC through advocacy, education and community partnerships.
Since 1983, the non-profit has provided clients with information and assistance for bringing human rights complaints to the BC Human Rights Tribunal, along with support letters, training, and education in human rights.
For more information about the VIHRC or to become a member, visit .
