Written By: Human Rights and Advocacy Council of Canadian Tamil Youth Alliance
On March 21st 2013, the Canadian Tamil Youth Alliance (CTYA) attended the J.S. Woodsworth Awards for Human Rights and Equity. In 1932, J.S Woodsworth became the first leader of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation, which later became known as the New Democratic Party. His work and teachings have strongly influenced Canadian social policy and programs like social assistance and medicare.
The event was hosted by the Ontario New Democrats to commemorate the International Day for the elimination of racial discrimination. The 17th annual award recognizes Ontarians working towards the elimination of racial discrimination by promoting human rights and equity. CTYA was one of the nominees in the Youth Category alongside other inspirational youth groups like the Somali Youth Association of Toronto, Leigh Bursey and Ali Chatur. After a motivating speech by Andrea Horwath, the award ceremony began.
CTYA is pleased to have received the J.S. Woodsworth Award for Human Rights and Equity. The Human Rights and Advocacy Council’s Board of Directors, Shagana Thangarajah and Yalini Rajakulasingam received the award on behalf of the organization. During their acceptance speech, the board of directors stated that the Human Rights and Advocacy council aims to build the capacity of Canadian Tamil Youth by equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to advocate for the protection of human rights in Canada and abroad. This council will strive to not only uphold international law and the Geneva conventions but also educate our youth and the broader Canadian society about the ongoing plight of Tamil people. Currently we have many youth that are part of our team and advocating for human rights both to Tamils in Tamileelam as well as in Canada.
CTYA was thrilled to receive this award because it recognized the organization’s hard work and commitment. The award motivates and encourages the organization to continue it’s fight against all forms of discrimination.
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