Mr. Speaker, the women and men who stand up to fight for human rights around the world, often at great personal risk, are today's heroes, and they often go unrecognized and unsung.
Today, the Subcommittee on International Human Rights had the opportunity to recognize and give voice to three of these courageous human rights defenders, some of whom are with us in Ottawa today.
Marguerite Barankitse helped more than 20,000 orphans access health care, education and cultural services.
Sara Hossain has worked tirelessly with Bangladesh legal aid services to make the Bangladeshi legal system accessible to marginalized groups.
Teresita Quintas Deles, or “Ging”, as chair of INCITEGov, is a champion for human rights, democracy and peace in the Philippines.
Today we honour them for being true change-makers. They are an inspiration to all of us to look beyond ourselves and make a better and more just world for our children.