Help Celebrate the Creation of a Human Rights Ombudsperson

The Canadian government has just announced the creation of a human rights ombudsperson. This will help position Canada as a global leader in business and human rights.

For several years, Amnesty International Canada and the Canadian Network on Corporate Accountability have been working hard to convince the Canadian government that a human rights ombudsperson is urgently needed. The creation of A Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise will help ensure that our country is finally “Open for Justice”. 

>>> Learn more about the announcement here. 

Now is the time to celebrate!

1. SHARE THE GOOD NEWS 

Spread the good news on social media by sharing our Facebook or Twitter posts. 

2. SEND A LETTER TO THE EDITOR 

Send a letter to the editor of your local newspaper applauding the ombudsperson announcement and emphasizing the continued need to ensure the ombudsperson office is both credible and effective. 

Letters to the editor are a great way to have your voice heard on key issues. Here’s how you can get yours published: 

  • Typically, letters to the editor respond to an article that recently appeared in the paper or expand on a topic that has been inadequately covered. Make a link between your article and another article recently published in your local paper. Include the headline of the article you are responding to in your letter. 
  • Letters must be short and to the point – ideally between 100 and 200 words. Review the guidelines of the paper you are submitting to for the exact word limit. 
  • Submit your letter to your local nespaper. The newspaper will also want your mailing address and phone number (not for publication) to verify your letter.
  • Send a copy of your letter to fkoza@amnesty.ca. 

Outline for a Letter to the Editor 

  • Opening: A punchy sentence to open your letter nad hone in on your subject.
  • Transition to message: You don’t have much space, so transition quickly to your message. Start by stating the problem or issue of concern.
  • Propose a solution: This is the core of your message. 
  • Closing the letter: Finish up strong, either by referring to the beginning of the letter or with something punchy. 
  • Tip: Don’t try to say everything in one letter. There is no room for it and it muddies the message. 

Sample Letter

RE:  [insert heading of article you are responding to]

Home to over 70 percent of worldwide mining operation, Canada’s new human rights ombudsperson will have a rippling effect on communities harmed by Canadian mining across the globe.

For over 10 years, civil society and industry allies have been pressing the federal government to create a transparent and independent accountability office to dig up the truth about harms linked to mining companies headquartered in Canada. Since 2014, over 100,000 Canadians have added their voice to this call for action.

This week, the Minister of International Trade took an important step to make Canada a leader in responsible business and human rights protection. Independent and strong investigative powers are essential to make this office credible and effective in offering remedy to communities negatively impacted by Canadian mining operations.

The Minister’s commitment to appoint an ombudsperson with the tools to bring the truth to light will help us live up to the Canada Brand.

Signature

Your address

Your phone number

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