Irshad Manji Speaks in Saskatoon

[Nov 10, 2008 10:13 AM]

SASKATOON: A gathering of human rights supporters were audience to a rare Saskatchewan appearance by broadcaster, filmmaker and best-selling author, Irshad Manji on Nov. 6.

As the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights approaches its 60th anniversary, the Canadian Union of Public Employees – Saskatchewan arranged for Manji to join CUPE members and supporters.

“Workers Rights are really human rights,” said Tom Graham, president of CUPE Saskatchewan, who added that it was CUPE’s provincial Committee Against Racism and Discrimination which organized the event.

“Human rights face threats world-wide, and today is no exception,” said Graham. “We’ve asked Irshad Manji here today to remind us that you can look across the globe to find examples of people who don’t have a guarantee of safety, but we can’t forget to be vigilant in North America, and in our own workplaces.”

Introducing Manji to her audience was CUPE national president Paul Moist, who noted that human rights must include guaranteed access to basic provisions of life, including safe, clean drinking water; health care and education. Through the public service, these things are guaranteed regardless of socio-economic status, race or religion.

CUPE devotes itself to promoting public services as a human right both within Canada and in the rest of the world.

CUPE represents over 27,000 public sector workers in Saskatchewan who work at health care facilities, municipalities, school boards, universities, libraries, legal aid and community-based organizations. CUPE is the largest union in Canada with over 570,000 members.

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For more information contact: Tom Graham, (306) 229-8171        

 

 

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