Rotary Adventures in Human Rights RAHR

History is our greatest teacher if we are willing to listen.

On this very important day of reflection and learning, taking the time to understand the importance of the 94 calls to action belongs to each of us.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” Maya Angelou

Truth and Reconciliation Committee 94 Calls to Action
https://nctr.ca/about/history-of-the-trc/truth-and-reconciliation-commission-of-canada/



Learn Peace Canada Tamara C Larson Grow Leaders UNESCO United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Institute for Economics & Peace

The and young peace builders buidling community!

Mackenzie Hue Tamara C Larson Rotary International District 5550 Rotary Club of Winnipeg Fred Wright Peter Tonge Brian Edwards Tamara C Larson Grow Leaders

We are excited to welcome Mackenzie Hue back as a program alumnus and mentor for the 24 young leaders from across Canada joining us this week.



UNESCO United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Tamara C Larson Grow Leaders Learn Peace Canada Tamara C Larson Brian Edwards Peter Tonge Lesa Michelle Mueller Canadian Museum for Human Rights IRCOM - Immigrant & Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba FortWhyte Alive Institute for Economics & Peace

"I am 21 years old in my 4th year of my Social Work Bachelor's Degree. It’s been 4 years since I the Rotary Club of Hudson Bay SK sent me to the Rotary Adventure in Human Rights program. 4 years later I still talk about what I experienced while on this “school trip”. Going into it I thought I would be sitting in conference rooms watching slideshows - but little did I know what I was about to experience.

"We heard from people from around the world that have experienced hardship because of their ethnicity, and we got to walk in one of the greatest museums in the world bringing awareness to hardships across history as well as in the present.

"The Canadian Museum for Human Rights showcases people who step up to change the narrative for the future. Our group of high school students were so inspired to take this motivation and make changes to our schools and communities as soon as possible.

"The community picnic was the day that left me with the most impact. It was a bbq in Central Park offering a free lunch to those less privileged within the surrounding area. But it was so much more than passing a hot-dog. I met an older gentleman that told me his life story in a way that wasn’t for pity or charity. I attempted to give him money and he refused, I offered him extra water and a meal and he gladly accepted. He talked to me for an hour explaining how he got to where he was today and how he has lost hope in creating a new future for himself. I was touched and grateful for his time and words of wisdom.

"As I hugged him goodbye he whispered in my ear "thank you for your time, your open ear and glowing smile, nobody has talked to me like a person in a very long time... remember me as you give this joy to other people for the rest of your life".

"I will remember his words forever.

"This conversation is still a daily influence and reminder to treat everyone with respect. He brought me to tears and opened my eyes in the sense that there are many other people like him that need a glimpse of hope.

"I could sit here writing endless pages on how this one-week experience influenced me in so many ways. As I was in my senior year, this experience provided great validation that Social Work was the career for me. A career with no limits in terms of who, what, where or when you can help; a field where I can offer people hope and help guide them in changing their lives.

"While every day of this conference was unforgettable and impactful, a short, personal and unplanned conversation changed my entire perspective in my day-to-day life as well as the future social worker I aspire to be.

"To the students that have the chance to take part in their local Rotary club, … DO IT! You never know what is in store for you. Step out of your comfort zone and open your eyes to the endless opportunity for change that is right in front of you.

-Mackenzie Hue

Be part of the Magic of Rotary, go to rotary5550.org