FREDERICTON (GNB) – The names of the recipients of the province’s 2020 human rights awards were announced today as part of the celebration of New Brunswick Human Rights Day.

The New Brunswick Human Rights Award will be presented to Claudette Bradshaw, of Moncton, and the Youth Human Rights Award will be presented to Emma Coakley, of Saint John.

“For over 30 years, the Human Rights Award has underscored major contributions by New Brunswickers to our province, and this year’s recipients are no exception,” said commission chairperson Claire Roussel-Sullivan. “These individuals are a source of inspiration to all New Brunswickers, and their involvement shows the importance of taking action and being dedicated to the promotion of equality and respect for others.”

Bradshaw distinguished herself through her efforts, achievements, and exceptional leadership focused on the importance of helping the victims of discrimination based on social status or family status.

“My mission was for children and their families to grow up with dignity and succeed in life without experiencing discrimination,” said Bradshaw. “I want to share that recognition with everyone who supported me throughout those years and who believed, as I did, that we all have the right to a better life.”

The Youth Human Rights Award highlights the ability of young people to engage in promoting the values associated with human rights, such as respect, appreciation for diversity and the absence of discrimination. This award is being presented to Coakley for her dedication to making the people of her area aware of the topic of amputation, prostheses, the War Amps, and the PlaySafe program.

“I think that my experience as an amputee and my positive attitude help to make the messages even clearer,” Coakley said. “I hope that the knowledge I provide will enhance people’s understanding and open their minds to accepting people with unique differences.”

New Brunswick Human Rights Day is observed every Sept. 15 to commemorate the evolution, recognition and protection of human rights in the province. Since 1967, the commission has been responsible for enforcing the Human Rights Act. The organization is also responsible for the act’s evolution by recommending amendments to reflect societal changes.

The award, a sculpture of walnut and maple with the names of the recipients engraved on the base, is on permanent public display at Government House. It was established by the commission in 1988 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The awards ceremony will take place this winter.

More information on the New Brunswick Human Rights Award are available online.