Gala 2025: Raising Our Voices

November 17, 2025 at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
5:30 p.m. Cocktail reception | 6:15 p.m. Dinner and formal program | 9:15 p.m. Dessert and mingling

At this year’s event, we're pleased to feature LGBT Purge Survivor Michelle Douglas as our keynote speaker and celebrate the Museum’s latest exhibition Love in a Dangerous Time: Canada’s LGBT Purge. You’ll also learn about the profound impact you’ve had on young human rights upstanders.

Your support will help build a better future by financially supporting human rights education at the Museum. If you can't make it this year but still want to show your support, you can make a donation online or by calling Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights at 204-289-2003.

To confirm your sponsorship, please fill out the sponsorship confirmation form.

Keynote speaker: Michelle Douglas

When Michelle enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1986, she had a promising career ahead of her. But just a few years later she was interrogated about her suspected sexuality and dismissed.

The military claimed she was “not advantageously employable due to homosexuality.”

Michelle was one of thousands whose lives were shattered due to the discriminatory policies of the LGBT Purge. But she fought back, ending the Purge with a legal challenge. Michelle is now a celebrated 2SLGBTQI+ activist, community leader and the Executive Director of the LGBT Purge Fund.

Musical performance: Don Amero

Don Amero is an engaging storyteller, singer-songwriter, and performer. A three-time JUNO Award nominee, Don has been touring, performing, and speaking across Canada for the last decade, earning the respect and attention of the Canadian Music industry and fans alike.

Amero, who is of Cree and Métis heritage, has taken the skills he utilizes on stage and applied them to his advocacy work within Indigenous communities and beyond.

With powerful vocals, a soulful sound, and a tireless work ethic, Don has proven himself a much sought-after performer who genuinely connects with his audience. Wherever he goes, he shares encouragement, positivity, and a desire to connect with fans, no matter the venue.

Gala dinner menu

If you have any dietary requirements, please contact us at rsvpgala@humanrights.ca

Soup
Roasted beetroot soup with fresh apples and sunflower seed cream*

Salad
Roasted Brussels sprouts with whipped white bean and lemon puree, drizzled with maple glaze*

Main course
Honey sesame slow roasted boneless beef rib with sticky rice, shitake mushrooms and broccolini^†Vegetarian/vegan alternative: Roasted sweet potato and beets with sticky rice and boy choy*

Dessert
Dessert bar with chef's selection of cakes and pastries

Wine selection
Red - Anciano Old Vine Garnacha, Spain
White - Cave Spring Niagara Riesling, Ontario

Distinctions tasting by Manitoba Liquor Marts
Macaloney’s Island Distillery, Canadian Malt Whisky
Diplomatico Ambassador Selection Rum

*Vegan, gluten free, and nut free ^†Gluten free, dairy free and nut free