Gala 2024: Raising Our Voices

Globally renowned Canadian broadcaster George Stroumboulopoulos is a multifaceted storyteller and devoted humanitarian.  His work has impacted countless charities, raising tens of millions of dollars and earning several humanitarian awards. We are thrilled that George will join us to host a conversation with young upstanders about how they are making a difference for human rights in their community.

Maréshia Rucker is a public speaker and activist best known for her efforts to host the first racially integrated prom at her high school in Georgia. Until 2013, segregated proms were arranged by families, even though the school had been integrated for decades. Maréshia and her friends persisted despite considerable opposition to bring their vision to life.

Michael Redhead Champagne is a community leader from Winnipeg’s North End with family roots in Shamattawa First Nation. He is also a host, helper, published author, on-screen personality and sought after public speaker. Michael happily shares his words, wisdom and welcoming energy across Canada and around the world to speak out about poverty, politics and reconciliation.

Each year, we are thrilled to honour outstanding people and organizations who have championed human rights. In 2024, we are pleased to honour Arni Thorsteinson for his contributions as the first board chair of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Through his efforts, he successfully completed the goal to create the first museum in the world dedicated to human rights.

We will also remember architect Antoine Predock, who passed away earlier this year. Antoine’s masterful design was selected for the Museum in one of Canada’s largest‐ever juried architectural competitions. It was chosen not only for its striking use of natural elements and features, but for how it represented the journey of human rights.