Strengthening Human Rights Advocacy in Saskatoon
Parveen Parmar, Director of Advocacy
From October 28–30, 2025, community members, service providers, and human rights advocates gathered in Saskatoon on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis for a three-day Human Rights Advocacy Training hosted by the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights. Facilitated by Renée Vaugeois and Parveen Parmar, the training brought together an incredible group of people passionate about advancing justice, equity, and dignity in their communities.
Participants described the experience as energizing, interactive, and deeply meaningful. “It exceeded my expectations,” one person shared. “I didn’t have a lot of expectations, but I learned a lot and had fun at the same time.” Another added, “I was expecting more ‘sit and get,’ but I’m extremely appreciative and grateful for the activities and the opportunities to interact with others.” One participant summed it up beautifully: “The experience was completely fulfilling. I came in with zero expectations, but an open mind. I feel more equipped to help when needed.”
The first day focused on the foundations of human rights at the international level, the available mechanisms to access remedy when your rights have been violated, and how these principles can serve as tools for advocacy and accountability. We also talked about how human rights language needs to be integrated into advocacy and legal practice. Conversations quickly became personal and powerful, touching on issues such as access to health care and safety within public systems. “The strength of human rights depends on our knowledge of the system,” one participant reflected. “We often talk about rights in organizations, but we don’t always use them in practice.”
The afternoon session on anti-oppression invited participants to look deeply at how oppression manifests in the structures and systems that shape our society—and how these same forces show up in our daily interactions. The discussion challenged everyone to sit in discomfort when having difficult conversations and to recognize that, depending on the context, each of us may be both an oppressor and someone who experiences oppression. As one participant reflected, “It’s so powerful that we come together and have that validation. A lot of people want to participate in reconciliation but don’t know how. Having these conversations is important.” Another shared, “There were some uncomfortable stories, but I’m thankful for everyone’s courage to share.”
The main focus of day two was understanding how to access human rights mechanisms at the domestic level—both federal and provincial. Participants built characters with intersecting identities and applied what they learned to develop advocacy strategies and create maps outlining solutions for human rights violation scenarios. One participant summed it up: “The training was a well-balanced mix of information and application. It gave me valuable tools for advocacy.” Another added, “It is a really great training. It gave me deeper knowledge about human rights and a better understanding of Canadians’ advocacy work in this area.”
By day three, the energy in the room was strong and connected. Through power mapping and group exercises, participants learned how to identify allies, decision-makers, and strategies for making change. “Advocacy doesn’t always have to be adversarial,” one participant said. “Understanding that helps us build better relationships.”
As the training came to a close, participants reflected on both the learning and the facilitation. “Really appreciate your honesty, your directness, and your willingness to share your knowledge and experiences in human rights advocacy,” one person shared. Another added, “Witnessing everyone become more comfortable with one another was awesome. That can only happen when a safe space is created. Thank you for facilitating something so powerful and beautiful.”
Participants also shared their appreciation for the connections made. “The connections made to other resources was really nice to have had the opportunity to connect with. Participating in activities is normally not my thing; however, those were actually fun.”
Many left feeling inspired and re-energized. “I’m leaving here with more purpose and spark in what I want to do,” one participant said. “This was a powerful, fun learning experience that made me feel less alone.” Another added, “It’s so important to do in-person training. Webinars make it easy to check out, but this kept me truly engaged.” And one joyful reflection captured the spirit of the group perfectly: “I loved it! Thank you for providing such an amazing experience and facilitating safe and community connections among us. I loved it! Thank you!”
The John Humphrey Centre extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, shared their stories, and helped create such a warm and inspiring space. This training was made possible through the generous support of the McConnell Foundation, whose commitment to advancing community-based human rights and social justice efforts helps make gatherings like this possible.
Together, we continue to build a stronger network of advocates dedicated to dignity, freedom, and justice for all.