“On Dec. 10, 1948, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
“To this day, 71 years later, it remains an important reminder of the principle that all human beings are entitled to the same rights, regardless of their race, colour, sex, religion, political philosophy, social status, or any other aspect of their personhood.
“The declaration sets out a blueprint for a society where everyone is granted the same opportunities to work, to live, to love, and to speak out without fear of discrimination or interference from more powerful people and institutions.
“Today, on Human Rights Day, Alberta stands with the rest of the world in affirming its commitment to these principles. I am proud to be part of a government that has long been an advocate for Albertans’ human rights.
“Proof of this government’s action includes passing legislation this fall, known as Clare’s Law, to help those at risk by giving them new tools to find out if an intimate partner has a violent or abusive past.
“As the Declaration of Human Rights notes, everyone – all of us – also has duties to their community. And so, on this day, while we reflect on what we can do individually to promote freedom and tolerance, we know there is more work to be done.
“In the coming year, Alberta will take action on human trafficking, as part of our continuing commitment to standing against violence and protecting human rights.”