Human Rights Day is observed globally on December 10, in recognition of the United Nations General Assembly’s proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948.

The UDHR outlines the fundamental rights of all humans – including equality, life, freedom, and security – regardless of religion, language, gender, race, colour, opinion, property, or status.

Ways to Participate in Human Rights Day

Learning about human rights helps empower us to advocate for our rights and the rights of others.

For Human Rights Day 2024, the United Nations’ theme is Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now. The theme speaks to the everyday importance and relevance of human rights in our lives, acknowledging that we must do our part to speak up against hateful speech, correct misinformation, and counter disinformation. Together, we can mobilize global efforts towards a better, more equitable future for all.

• Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
• Visit the Government of Canada’s website
• Learn about Canada’s contributions to drafting the UDHR
• Explore more about the UN’s Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now campaign
• Visit a UN online photo exhibit

Local Events in Celebration of Human Rights Day

Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights on Tuesday, December 10, to enjoy free admission along with special programming and activities. Learn more at humanrights.ca.

Stop by The Forks on Tuesday, December 10, at 1:00 p.m. for a free Art + Human Rights Walking Tour. Hosted in collaboration with CMHR and Synonym Art Consultation, join artists Val Vint, KC Adams, and Jaimie Isaac, to gain insight on how art can share human rights stories, reflect the importance of place, and call for action. Register online at theforks.com.

The following message contains content related to gender-based violence that may trigger powerful emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience of violence and victimization. It is recommended you read the message when you feel safe and supported.  Resources are available for those affected by gender-based violence, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, a 24-7 Crisis Line, Gender-Based Violence Support in Manitoba and  additional support services. 

Every year on December 6, RRC Polytech recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women today. Today marks 35 years since the tragic murders of these 14 young women at École Polytechnique in Montreal. 

We remember: Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, Anne-Marie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Sonia Pelletier, Michèle Richard, Annie St-Arneault, Annie Turcotte, and Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz. 
 

These young women were deprived of their bright futures and opportunities to contribute to our society, with many close to graduating and having jobs lined up for them. 

This day serves as a solemn reminder to honour the 14 women who were killed and the 14 others who were injured on December 6, 1989 – at the hands of someone who claimed to be “fighting feminism.”  

Though 35 years have passed, the struggle against gender-based violence remains. In Canada and globally, women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face discrimination and violence. One in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime which is not only frightening but also concerning.  

This day is not only a time to remember this tragedy but also all those who have experienced gender-based violence. To create a meaningful change, we must work together to eliminate the numbers entirely by protecting our sisters, mothers, friends, colleagues, partners and even strangers from harm. 

Everyone—especially men and boys— has a duty to challenge societal norms, attitudes, and behaviors triggering gender-based violence. Together, we can take the first step toward building a future prioritizing the needs and safety of women. 

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) (November 25 to December 10) calls for action to end GBV worldwide. Aligning with this year’s theme, Come Together, Act Now, reminds us, we all have a responsibility in creating a world free from violence—every day, everywhere.  

This morning, RRC Polytech is hosting a Vigil at The Cave(Notre Dame Campus) from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., to commemorate those we’ve lost, and foster hope and healing for a future free from violence. We invite staff and students to come together in solidarity to honour these 14 women and strengthen our commitment to putting an end to gender-based violence. 

Our flags are lowered at half-mast, and we encourage every student, staff and faculty member to attend the vigil or observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m., whether in the classroom, your workspace or at home. There is also a Reflection Room today from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. in the City View Room (Fourth Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. 

Other ways you can show your support:  

• Wear a white ribbon as a symbol of your commitment to never engage in, support, or stay silent about violence against women and girls. Learn where to pick-up ribbon on campus. 
• During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based, join the conversation and share how you are contributing to the fight to end gender-based violence. Use the hashtag #16Days to amplify your voice. 
• Learn more about gender-based violence and supports available 

Today, as we grieve and remember the lives of these 14 women, let us hold onto hope for a safer and brighter future for women, girls, and gender-diverse folks. It is our shared responsibility to create a community and environment where everyone can live free from fear. 

December 6 can be an incredibly difficult day for many. If you need someone to talk to, support and help for students is available through Campus Well-Being. Staff have access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program through Homewood Health. Please take good care of yourselves and those around you. 

The Anti-Racism Action Committee is excited to host our inaugural Social Justice Coffee House, and we warmly welcome all staff, faculty and students to join us for this inspiring event! The Social Justice Coffee house will be a collaborative event where participants are welcome to attend as audience members and/or as performers.  

Participants can sign up to share readings (poetry, fiction, non-fiction), sing songs, engage in discussions, or have cultural exchanges about social justice topics. The goal is to have a safe space to voice thoughts and feelings on social justice matters, connect with peers, and learn and grow.  

Date: November 4, 2024, Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, Location: Prairie Lights, Notre Dame Campus 

What to Expect: 

• Open Mic Performances: Showcase your talents by playing an instrument, singing a song, or performing a spoken word piece. 

• Readings: Share an original work or read a selection from an author you admire that resonates with themes of social justice. Staff from the Library will be sharing poems and readings as well as having a collection of books on the topic to borrow. 

• Engaging Topics: Present on any social justice issues close to your heart—whether they’re global, national, or local. Are you trying to understand more about social justice issues? Please visit these links for more info: Fifteen Examples of Social Issues in Canada, The Society Library 

• Cultural Exchange: Experience a rich tapestry of perspectives and stories from our diverse community. 

Why Attend? 

• Express Yourself: This is a safe space to voice your thoughts and feelings on important social justice matters. 

• Connect with Peers: Meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact. 

• Learn and Grow: Gain new insights and broaden your understanding of issues affecting different communities. 

How to Participate: 

• Perform or Present: If you’re interested in performing or presenting, please fill out the form below with what you’d like to share. 

• Be an Audience Member: Even if you’re not performing, your support and presence contribute to the dialogue and community spirit. Please indicate that you will be part of the audience by filling out the form below. 

• After you fill out this form to indicate that you will be attending, you will be sent a meeting invite to hold the space in your calendar. 

Refreshments: 

• Complimentary coffee and light snacks will be available for all attendees. 

If you have any questions, please contact diversity@rrc.ca.

Post written by Dr Obren Amiesimaka, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech.

What is National Coming Out Day (NCOD)?

In Canada, and in several other countries, National Coming Out Day (NCOD) is observed on October 11. NCOD is a day to celebrate coming out by 2SLGBTQIA+ folx and to honour all who have come out, encourage those in the process of coming out and support folx who are yet to come out. NCOD reminds society that 2SLGBTQIA+ folx have the right and freedom to live their full, true identities, openly and confidently, every day, every time and everywhere.  

The NCOD date is highly symbolic. Started by Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary, the inaugural NCOD in the US was held on October 11, 1988, which was one year after the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. About 750,000 people had marched in 1987 to advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS and for queer rights at the height of the AIDS epidemic.   

Why is National Coming Out Day (still) important?

 “Most people think they don’t know anyone gay or lesbian, and in fact, everybody does. It is imperative that we come out and let people know who we are and disabuse them of their fears and stereotypes.” This 1993 quote of Robert Eichberg, one of the NCOD founders, sums up the spirit of NCOD.

Over three decades later, despite significant improvements in 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, we still live in a heteronormative world where the default assumption is that everyone is cis gender and straight. Many people would still say that they do not know any queer folx personally. NCOD is important as it celebrates coming out to help show the world that being 2SLGBTQIA+ is normal and queer folx are in every family, school, workplace and country the world over. It is also essential for showing folx who are struggling with their sexuality that they are not alone, abnormal or unloved.

‘Coming out’ as 2SLGBTQIA+ is the process of socially acknowledging one’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity. It is about being your authentic self so you can live your best life – out loud, proudly and freely. As Nelson Mandela said: “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”

It starts with coming out to yourself; accepting your sexuality/gender identity is typically the first step, and then when you are ready, you may choose to share your truth with others. There’s no right or wrong way to come out; the perfect time to come out is whenever you are ready and safe. Coming out is not for others, it’s for you! However, sharing our experiences by coming out can help us feel connected, empowered, supported and inspired.

Coming out is often a recurrent process; we do not come out just the once. We come out to family who are not aware, new people we meet – at school, work, anywhere really, etc. How you come out and who you choose to tell, is your decision to make. It is always advisable to begin with people who you are most comfortable with – people who would support you and stand with you.

Yes, NCOD is the day set aside to celebrate coming out, but coming out day can be any day. So, do not feel compelled to come out on October 11. It is alright to be in the closet if you are not ready for any reason whatsoever – you are still coming to terms with being 2SLGBTQIA+, you live in an unsafe environment, you come from one of the 63 jurisdictions around the world that criminalize being 2SLGBTQIA+ etc. Being in the closet does not make you any less 2SLGBTQIA+; just know, a time will come when you can come out of that closet and walk in the sun!

You have a lovely 2SLGBTQIA+ community and many allies cheering you on now, and who will be there to welcome and support you whenever you choose to come out.

Trust and believe, it gets better!

At RRC Polytech, we believe that diversity is our strength. We are committed to creating inclusive learning and working environments where everyone feels safe, respected, and celebrated.

Today is an excellent opportunity to consider the ways each of us can make our learning and working spaces safe(r), more welcoming and more inclusive; and how we can support 2SLGBTQIA+ friends and colleagues.

Below are resources and further information on being allies for everyone – it doesn’t matter who you are, everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, dignity, and respect. If you have any questions or comments, please email us at diversity@rrc.ca.

Resources:

• A coming out story
• Allyship is leadership
• How to be an Ally to a Bi+ Person
• What Does Trans Allyship Look Like? 

In 2007, the federal government designated October as Canadian Islamic History Month, to celebrate, inform, educate, and share Muslim heritage with fellow Canadians. It is a time to acknowledge the significant contributions of Muslims to our country’s prosperity and diverse heritage. Contributions from Muslim communities span from science to business, academia to the arts and beyond. 

The Islamic History Month Canada (IHMC) theme for 2024 is Health & Healing, providing an opportunity to explore and celebrate the profound contributions of Muslim scholars and scientists to the field of medicine. Some of the most notable historical figures who have made contributions to medicine, include: 

• Ibn Sina (Avicenna), whose seminal work, The Canon of Medicine, is often regarded as one of the most influential medical texts ever written. This comprehensive encyclopedia of medicine was used as a reference in both the Islamic world and Europe for centuries. Ibn Sina’s detailed descriptions of diseases, his emphasis on clinical observation, and his introduction of various therapeutic methods transformed medical practice and education. 

• Al-Razi (Rhazes), whose contributions include Kitab al-Hawi and Kitab al-Mansuri, which were pioneering in their systematic approach to medical knowledge. Al-Razi is celebrated for his work on the diagnosis and treatment of smallpox and measles, and his pioneering use of clinical trials and patient observations helped establish a scientific method in medicine. 

• Ibn al-Nafis is another trailblazer whose discovery of pulmonary circulation marked a significant advancement in understanding the human cardiovascular system. His observations predated similar discoveries in the West by several centuries, showcasing his exceptional contributions to medical science. 

These scholars and scientists – among many others – demonstrate a holistic approach to well-being and numerous contributions to modern medicine as we know it today.  

Through celebrating achievements and promoting inclusion, Islamic History Months aims to create a broader sense of societal awareness and deeper sense of belonging for Muslim Canadians. 

Resources for Further Learning 

• A selection of videos, book and more, curated by Islamic History Month Canada  

• CCDI’s Canadian Islamic History Month Resource Guide 

• CCDI Webinar: Islamophobia 
  • Thursday, October 17, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. 
    Join the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) and Mohamed Hashim, Executive Director of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF), to discuss the evolution of Islamophobia in Canada, its impacts in communities and the workplace, and how individuals and organizations who fear further polarization and backlash can engage in this national discourse to address bias and hate against Muslims. 
    Visit CCDI’s website to learn more and register* 

• Islamic History Month Recommended Reading Guide from the Winnipeg Public Library 

• Free community event at WAG-Qaumajuq: 
  • Islamic Storytelling with Amna Burki – Sunday, October 13, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. 

* Please note that RRC Polytech is a CCDI Employer Partner, which means all College employees are eligible to receive a free membership to access Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) resources, including webinars. When registering for the webinar, select “Employer Partner” for the registration type.   

Rosh Hashanah, beginning before sundown on Wednesday, October 2, and ending after nightfall on Friday, October 4, is the first of a series of significant high holidays coming up in the Jewish calendar. Rosh Hashanah, which marks the start of the Jewish New Year, culminates with Yom Kippur, beginning before sundown on Friday, October 11, and ending after nightfall on Shabbat, October 12, and is the day of atonement. The period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is considered very important as a time of reflection, repentance and renewal.

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are followed by Sukkot (Fall Solstice), Shemini Atzeret (marks the transition back to routine life), and Simchat Torah (celebrating the torah).

Whether the Jewish community observes the high holidays from a religious or cultural perspective, there are specific ways in which Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are typically celebrated.

Rosh Hashanah

On “erev,” the evening of Rosh Hashanah, it’s typical to host large dinners with family and friends and eat sweet things like apples and honey and honey cake to symbolize a “sweet new year.” Challah (egg bread) which is the shape representing the cycle of life is also enjoyed. These dinner celebrations happen for two nights, and people who are observant typically go to synagogue over the two days for Rosh Hashanah services and to listen to the shofar, a ram’s horn that is blown like a trumpet.

Yom Kippur

On Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, those who are observant fast with no food or drink during that time and go to synagogue both the “erev” (evening of) Yom Kippur and the next day until the fast ends. At sundown after the fast ends, family and friends get together to break the fast.

The 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are considered very significant. Listening to the shofar and having community gatherings is typical during this time.

Coming up on Wednesday, October 9, there is a Tashlich Picnic organized by the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg. Visit the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s Community Calendar for more events happening during the high holidays.

Shana tova umetuka! (Have a happy and sweet new year!) 

Canadian Multiculturalism Day is observed on June 27 to honour the many cultures that help build a strong and vibrant Canadian society.  In 1988, Canada became the first country in the world to recognize its multiculturalism policy in legislation by passing the Canadian Multiculturalism Act.  The Act promotes the full and equitable participation of individuals and communities of all origins in the continuing evolution and shaping of the Canadian society. Canada continues its work to promote multiculturalism and fight against racism by supporting communities and creating opportunities for conversations on multiculturalism, diversity, racism and religious discrimination.

At RRC Polytech, we recognize that diversity within our communities is one of our greatest strengths. We are committed to fostering working and learning environments that recognize and celebrate the diversity of our students and our staff. Together, we are working toward a place where we understand, embrace and uplift each other’s culture, and where all are welcomed for who they are, and for what we can build together.

All RRC Polytech employees have access to the CCDI 2024 Diversity Calendar. The calendar includes religious and cultural observances and other commemorative dates and fosters opportunities to learn about and celebrate diversity throughout the year.  We use this calendar to guide the celebrations and observances we recognize as a College community. If there is a holiday that you celebrate or observe, and would like to add to the calendar, please fill out the Celebrate Everything form.

RRC Polytech’s Anti-Racism Action Committee – Social Justice Engagement Club has put together a Social Justice Bingo activity to build awareness on anti-racism and social justice this summer.  All members of the RRC Polytech community are invited to engage in the activities on this card to learn more about anti-racist and social-justice related topics and places in our province. This is an opportunity to reflect on power, privilege, bias, and how they influence our own experiences and perceptions, and how they affect individuals and groups in our communities.  

As you engage with these activities, reflect on your experiences, take pictures, and share with the RRC Polytech community. Once you have completed the card, complete this form to be included in a draw to win a book prize. 

You can access other Anti-Racism Resources and learn more about the Anti-Racism Working Group in this Diversity Blog Post.

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact diversity@rrc.ca.

RRC Polytech is honoured once again to welcome Jonathan Niemczak to speak with the community as part of our Pride Month celebrations.

Jonathan, Chair and President of the Canadian Pride Historical Society (CPHS) will provide an overview of the historical events that lead to the start of the Pride Movement in Canada and Winnipeg.

Date: Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location:

• In person: Roundhouse Auditorium (Second Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District Campus, Red River College Polytechnic, 319 Elgin Avenue
  • Please note that in-person capacity is limited – register now to save your spot!
  • Light refreshments will be provided for in-person attendees.
  • View the interactive map of the Exchange District Campus.
    
• Online via Zoom

About Jonathan Niemczak
Jonathan Niemczak is the Chair and President of the Canadian Pride Historical Society (CPHS), a national non-profit organization dedicated to documenting and telling the story of the history of the Pride Movement in Canada. Before founding CPHS, Jonathan was the President of the Pride Winnipeg Festival, where he served on the Board of Directors for ten years and led the organization for six. At Pride Winnipeg, he identified a significant gap in the collective knowledge about the origins of Pride in Winnipeg and Pride in other Canadian communities. This insight drove him to establish the Canadian Pride Historical Society, ensuring the preservation of Pride Movement history for future generations. Jonathan is passionate about 2SLGBT+ history and committed to fostering greater awareness and appreciation of the community’s rich heritage. His work ensures that these important stories are not lost to time, highlighting the significance of the Pride Movement in Canada’s social and cultural landscape.

At RRC Polytech strive to host inclusive events. If you require accommodation, please email diversity@rrc.ca.

Manitoba Access Awareness Week (MAAW) is observed annually to raise awareness about accessibility issues that affect people with disabilities in Manitoba. It is important to be aware of these issues, remove barriers and celebrate access and inclusion.

RRC Polytech is committed to continuing its work to remove barriers to education and employment, and to promote access and participation in all aspects and activities of the College. Each member of the RRC Polytech community shares the responsibility of creating an equitable and inclusive environment.

All employees can access the Accessible Customer Service Standard Training and Accessible Information and Communications Standard Training through HRIS/My Portal/My Learning, to learn about the requirements of the Accessibility for Manitobans Act and Standards and resources available at the College. 

RRC Polytech offers programs and services to help with accessibility. You can find more information on our websites:

• Accessibility at RRC Polytech Public Website
  • Student Accessibility Services 
  • Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services 
  • Inclusive Hiring and Interview Accommodations 
  • Accessible Parking
• Accessibility at RRC Polytech Internal Site (Staff Forum)
  • Supportive Employment Program 
  • Individual Emergency Plan 
  • Accessibility Training and Learning Resources for Staff
  • Accessible Information and Communication Content Creation Resources 

The Manitoba Accessibility Office will be hosting free daily webinars from May 27 to May 31 in recognition of Manitoba Access Awareness Week. We will be highlighting these webinars and other learning opportunities through Staff News posts in the coming days.

RRC Polytech is committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming, supportive and respectful of the dignity and independence of people with disabilities. We will continue to identify and implement strategies to ensure that individuals in the College community have equal opportunity to achieve their employment and educational goals.

You can let us know your questions or feedback regarding accessibility using the feedback form or by emailing diversity@rrc.ca.

Post written by Dr Obren Amiesimaka and Justine Hawley, Gender and Sexual Diversity Group Members at RRC Polytech.

The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) is marked every May 17. Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia are probably words you’ve heard before. They refer to the “fear, dislike, or hatred of and discrimination against 2SLGBTQIA+ people”(Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion’s Glossary of Terms) because of their gender identity and/or sexual orientation.

Derogatory language, violence and various forms of discrimination, at work or in the law/education/life generally, are few examples of homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia. These acts of discrimination can be subtle, but they don’t have to be overt to negatively impact 2SLGBTQIA+ folk. Sadly, many members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Canada and around the world still face discrimination due to homophobia, transphobia and biphobia. We should not be complicit by letting these hateful actions occur without repercussions or anyone standing up.

The theme for this year’s International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is “No One Left Behind: Equality, Freedom and Justice for All”. At RRC Polytech, we are committed to pursuing equity, diversity and inclusion in everything we do, and this is embedded in our Strategic Plan. We strive to be allies, show kindness to, and respect the dignity of everyone, no matter who they are and who they love.

Think about how you can be a 2SLGBTQIA+ ally and stand against homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia this May 17 and always.

• What is IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia)?
• Being a 2SLGBTQIA+ Ally
• Allyship is leadership
• How to be an Ally to a Bi+ Person
• What Does Trans Allyship Look Like?
• Join the Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group at RRC Polytech
• CCDI’s Glossary of Terms
  • Homophobia: a fear, dislike, or hatred of and discrimination against 2SLGBTQIA+ people. Homophobia presents in many forms, and can be structural/systemic, interpersonal, or internalized.
  • Transphobia is the fear, dislike, or hatred of and discrimination against trans people. Transphobia exists through offensive jokes, exclusion, denial of services, employment discrimination, intentional misgendering, harassment, and violence.
  • Biphobia: Fear, dislike, or hatred of and discrimination against bisexual people. Biphobia presents through offensive jokes, exclusion, bi-erasure, harassment, and violence. Biphobia exists both within and outside of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.