Queen Elizabeth II has unveiled the cornerstone of the new Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
The symbolic monument contained a stone from Runnymede in England, the site of the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215.
“The symbolism of the Magna Carta is now joined to the historical importance of a site where aboriginal peoples gathered for thousands of years to exchange views and resolve conflicts,” the Queen said.
Her Majesty the Queen admires the cornerstone as Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Premier of Manitoba Greg Selinger and President and CEO of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights Stuart Murray look on.
“It was an honour to be part of this historic event,” said Stuart Murray, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. “Thank you to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for this generous and thoughtful gift.”
Located in Winnipeg, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is Canada’s newest national museum with a mission to enhance the understanding of human rights, to promote respect for others and to encourage reflection and dialogue.
Established by Parliament through amendments to the Museums Act on March 13, 2008, which came into force on August 10, 2008, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) is envisioned as a national and international destination-a centre of learning where Canadians and people from around the world can engage in discussion and commit to taking action against hate and oppression.
www.humanrightsmuseum.ca
