Common menu bar links
PM receives Saul Hayes Human Rights Award
Continues to defend human rights and oppose Anti-Semitism on the world stage
31 May 2009
Toronto, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today received the Saul Hayes Human Rights Award from the Canadian Jewish Congress. This is the first time the award has been given to a serving Prime Minister. "I am moved and honoured to receive this award," said the Prime Minister. "You don’t defend human rights by speeches alone; real action is required from inside and outside of government. Canadians can count on our Government to defend human rights and oppose anti-Semitism because it is the right thing to do. As grateful as I am to receive this award, I am even more grateful for the leadership the Canadian Jewish Congress has shown in standing up for human rights and opposing hatred in all its forms."
The Harper Government has made defending human rights a cornerstone of its foreign policy since coming to office. Under the Harper Government, Canada was the first country to withdraw from the Durban Review Conference after it turned into a forum for the promotion of anti-Semitism and hatred. Canada was also the first country to suspend ties with and assistance to the Hamas regime in the Palestinian Authority after it refused to drop its commitment to the eradication of Israel.
The Saul Hayes Award is bestowed on individuals who render distinguished service to the cause of human rights. The Prime Minister received the award at the Canadian Jewish Congress 29th Plenary Assembly held in Toronto, Ontario.
