ON the eve of the Human Rights International Day, Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care, visited Guru Ravidass Community Center in Burnaby for a round table discussion with members on the importance of human rights. Chen also discussed why it is important to strengthen democracy and see that our communities are welcoming, respectful, liberating and fraternal.

Bill Basra, President of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha, expressed the board’s appreciation to the minister for always being accessible. Basra commended her for all the success she and her ministry are having in providing affordable and culturally relevant child care in the province. Basra also briefed Chen on the Punjabi and math classes being provided and commended teachers who volunteer their time every Sunday.

Chen also shared progress her government is making in re-establishing the Human Rights Commission.

“Re-establishing the Human Rights Commission in British Columbia is essential in ensuring fundamental grounds of human rights are upheld and proactive measures are taken to provide the needed public awareness and enforcement,” said Chen.

Chen acknowledged the 62nd death anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar and paid tributes for his contributions to India as the chair of the drafting committee for India’s constitution, the largest democracy in the world. Dr. Ambedkar passed away on December 6, 1956, and is being recognized as ‘the Symbol of Knowledge.’ The Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha plans to dedicate this Sunday’s services to Dr. Ambedkar and pay tributes.