Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in the House today in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This milestone gives us cause to recognize that human rights are the foundation of women's equality in Canada and around the world.
Internationally Canada continues to play a leadership role in support of human rights at the United Nations, the Commonwealth and the Organization of American States.
Here at home the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees Canadians equal access and equal benefit under the law. Women have used the charter to challenge legislation which discriminates against them.
The government will continue to support women who face discrimination based not only on their gender but also on their race, their age and their disabilities. We will continue to support them in their efforts.