Celebrating Courage: The Human Rights Awards (and Why You Should Nominate Someone for 2026!)
Every community has quiet champions: the people who challenge injustice, uplift marginalized voices, and work tirelessly to build a more inclusive world. For nearly two decades, the Human Rights Awards presented by the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights (JHC) have been celebrating these changemakers across Alberta.
The Human Rights Awards are a moment for the community to come together, recognize extraordinary leadership, and renew a shared commitment to justice and peace.
Acknowledging Human Rights Leadership
Each year, the awards highlight several different forms of leadership and impact. Current categories include:
Human Rights Champion – recognizing individuals who make their communities more inclusive and equitable.
Gerald L. Gall Award – honouring excellence in advancing human rights through legislative change in Canada.
Randy Palivoda Award for Public Service – celebrating public servants who champion human rights through their work.
The Honourable Salma Lakhani Award for Leadership in Pluralism and Reconciliation – recognizing young leaders (under 30) who advance reconciliation and intercultural understanding.
Together, these awards capture the many ways human rights progress happens, from grassroots community organizing to systemic policy change.
The awards ceremony is traditionally held each year in Edmonton around the International Day of Peace, and in 2026 the event will take place October 1. At the 17th Annual Human Rights Awards in 2025, we honoured individuals tackling critical issues—from disability rights and migrant justice to dismantling systemic oppression and amplifying marginalized voices. Their stories remind us that human rights progress is driven not only by institutions, but by everyday people who refuse to stay silent.
Know a Human Rights Champion? Apply for 2026
Now, the search is on for the next group of inspiring leaders.
The 2026 Human Rights Awards will once again highlight individuals and organizations whose work promotes human rights, inclusion, and justice. Nominations are open to people of all ages, as well as businesses and organizations that are making a positive difference in their communities and whose efforts deserve to be recognized.
If you know someone whose work is making change in your community, consider submitting a nomination. Your nomination could shine a spotlight on their impact, and inspire others to continue the work.
Celebrating human rights champions is more than recognition. It’s a reminder that positive change is possible when individuals step forward to defend dignity and justice for all.