Humans, On Rights

We sit down with Clayton Sandy, a knowledge keeper and educator who brings decades of experience in government and Indigenous advocacy to our conversation about Orange Shirt Day and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.Clayton shares his powerful personal story - from growing up as the son of a WWII veteran who lost his Indigenous status through enfranchisement, to his own experience in the 60s scoop, to building a career in government while facing systemic racism. His journey led him to become one of Manitoba's most respected voices on Indigenous issues and human rights.We're discussing:Why his father became a "non-Indian" after serving Canada in WWII and how this affected Clayton's entire familyThe reality of experiencing racism in government workplacesThe devastating impact of residential schools on his familyHow systems mapping and education became his tools for creating change across CanadaPractical ways all Canadians can move beyond awareness to meaningful action on reconciliationClayton reminds us that reconciliation isn't just about recognizing past wrongs - it's about stepping up, taking responsibility, and actively supporting Indigenous-led solutions. His message is clear: "Take off your blinders and open up your mind. Don't be afraid to come to a powwow or a gathering."Whether you're looking to understand the legacy of residential schools, wondering how to become a genuine ally, or seeking ways to honour Orange Shirt Day beyond September 30th, this conversation offers both the historical context and practical guidance needed to move forward together.Clayton's wisdom, built through decades of education work and lived experience, provides a roadmap for how we can all play a role in the seven generations of healing that reconciliation requires.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Don Woodstock, author of "Unrelenting" and the grassroots activist who transformed recycling in Winnipeg. Don's journey from a farm in Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica to becoming the driving force behind Manitoba's shift from 33% to 99% recycling participation is a masterclass in persistent community organizing and environmental justice.Don shares how his grandfather's simple question - "Is it bigger than you, son?" - became the foundation for taking on seemingly impossible challenges. When he arrived in Winnipeg and saw the potential for environmental change, he didn't wait for permission or funding. He made a documentary, knocked on doors, and refused to take no for an answer until people finally listened.We're talking:How growing up on a Jamaican farm taught sustainability lessons that urban Canada desperately neededWhy Winnipeg reminds him of Jamaica (minus the weather) and what that means for community organizingThe story behind getting major grocery chains to adopt reusable bags across CanadaWhat it takes to keep going when people literally spit on the ground and dismiss your ideasHow to plant seeds that will bear fruit long after you're gone - even if you never see the harvestThe human right to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment for future generationsDon's approach to grassroots change offers a blueprint for anyone wondering how to make a difference: start local, don't expect instant gratification, and remember that real change happens like farming - you plant seeds, water them consistently, and trust the process even when you can't see immediate results.Whether you're passionate about environmental issues or simply wondering how one person can create systemic change, Don's story proves that unrelenting commitment to what you believe in can literally transform a city's relationship with the planet.Read "UNRELENTING: The Man Who Turned a Local Recycling Push, Into a National Plastic Ban"Don't miss the innovative audio version featuring Caribbean and African music inspired by the themes of environmental justice and community action!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Heather Fast: Environmental Rights as Human RightsWhen the International Court of Justice issued a landmark advisory opinion on climate change this past July, it confirmed what environmental advocates have been arguing for years - that environmental protection is fundamentally about human rights. We sit down with Heather Fast, PhD candidate at the University of Manitoba's Natural Resource Institute and policy advocacy director of the Manitoba Eco Network, to break down what this means for Canada and communities like ours.Heather explains how the ICJ's non-binding but influential decision reinforces that the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is essential for enjoying all other human rights. From wildfires forcing evacuations to climate refugees displaced by rising seas, environmental degradation disproportionately impacts marginalized communities who often have the least resources to adapt.We explore:How the ICJ's advisory opinion strengthens legal pathways for environmental protection, even though it's non-bindingWhy marginalized communities bear the heaviest burden when environmental rights are violatedThe recent LeMay Forest controversy in Winnipeg and how it illustrates tensions between private property rights and collective environmental interestsPractical ways Canadians can engage more meaningfully in environmental policy discussionsHow federal legislation like the Canadian Environmental Protection Act is beginning to recognize environmental rightsHeather brings both academic expertise and grassroots advocacy experience to help us understand why protecting our environment isn't separate from protecting human rights - it's the foundation that makes all other rights possible.Whether you're wondering how international law affects local policy or looking for ways to get more involved in environmental issues in your community, this conversation offers practical insights into one of the defining human rights challenges of our time.Connect with the Manitoba Eco NetworkSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Jamie Paris, a University of Manitoba literature scholar whose research bridges Shakespearean drama with contemporary issues of race, gender and masculinity. Jamie brings a unique perspective to conversations about what it means to be a better man in 2025.As an educator first and foremost, Jamie's work focuses on helping foster the next generation through meaningful classroom discussions about identity, dignity, and human connection. His personal journey - growing up as an orphan, becoming a young father at 17, and finding his path through academia - shapes his approach to understanding masculinity not as something to tear down, but as something to rebuild with joy, care, and moral courage.We're talking:Why many young men today feel ashamed of their gender and how to move beyond "toxic masculinity" conversationsDefining healthy masculinity: the desire to protect, care, and extend joy to othersHow Shakespeare's tragedies teach us about pride, community, and making better choicesWhy preventing gender-based violence starts with teaching consent and bodily autonomy from a young ageJamie challenges us to move past the question of "who's right and who's wrong" and instead focus on rebuilding trust - between individuals, communities, and across differences. His work reminds us that masculinity, when rooted in love and care for others, can be a source of strength and joy rather than harm.Whether you're a parent trying to raise thoughtful children, an educator working with young adults, or someone interested in how literature connects to contemporary social issues, this conversation offers practical insights into creating more meaningful connections in our communities.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Michel Durand-Wood, better known online as "Elmwood Guy," a Winnipeg-based writer, community advocate, and author of "You'll Pay for This: How We Can Afford a Great City for Everyone Forever." Michel shares his journey from concerned neighbour to influential voice in municipal finance and urban planning.We're discussing:How noticing decline in his Elmwood neighbourhood sparked Michel's passion for municipal advocacyWhy the 2018 Portage and Main plebiscite became a turning point in his understanding of public engagementThe hidden connections between municipal finance and human rights - from equitable public services to housing accessibilityHow infrastructure decisions made today impact our city's ability to provide services "forever"Michel reminds us that municipal finance isn't just about budgets - it's about creating inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. His approach demonstrates how understanding the financial implications of city planning decisions empowers citizens to advocate for more equitable and sustainable urban development.Connect with Michel:His blog: https://www.dearwinnipeg.com/Read "You'll Pay for This: How We Can Afford a Great City for Everyone Forever"See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Dr. Kerstin Roger, a researcher and advocate tackling an urgent but often overlooked human rights issue: the abuse of older adults. Dr. Roger shares why this isn't just a family matter—it's a fundamental question of human dignity and rights.We're talking:Why age has been historically left out of human rights frameworksHow different communities define aging differently, and the global variations in lifespan and health outcomesWhy traditional data collection methods fall short in capturing the real scope of the problemFinancial abuse as the newest and fastest-growing form of harmHow we can shift from fear-based narratives to celebrating the wisdom and contributions of older adultsDr. Roger reminds us that older adults are citizens who deserve to be equal and active participants in our communities, with the right to make their own decisions about their lives and wellbeing.As she states: "It is a luxury to age, and we have really come to see it as a possible burden to us and others... we really need to reinforce this idea that actually getting older is a luxury and a privilege."Watch the "Who Should I Tell?" awareness video in multiple languages on the A&O Youtube channelSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Stanislas Bell, Manager of Visitor Services at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and the first Black manager in a position of power at the institution. Originally from Cameroon, Stanislas shares his journey from teenage immigrant to community leader, including a life-threatening encounter with medical racism that shaped his commitment to serving others.We're talking:Moving from Cameroon to rural Manitoba at 16, speaking only FrenchHow sports became his bridge to acceptance in a new cultureA harrowing hospital experience where discrimination nearly cost him his lifeWhy representation matters for building trust in human rights institutionsLeading the museum through COVID-19 challenges and vaccine mandatesFounding his own initiatives to empower Winnipeg's black communityStanislas reminds us that leadership means "transforming anything that's negative into something positive" and building the next generation of leaders. His story shows how personal trauma can become a catalyst for community change when we choose service over silence.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Brigette DePape, project manager and climate planner at Narratives Inc, who brings together climate advocacy, education, and community action in powerful ways. As someone who's been part of the climate justice movement for over 15 years, Bridgette offers both personal insights and practical solutions for addressing our climate crisis while building resilient communities.How early experiences connecting with nature—from bike rides through Seine River Forest to cleaning up garbage from the Seine River—shaped Bridgette's environmental passionWhy climate change isn't just an environmental issue, but a human rights issue that disproportionately affects marginalized communitiesThe critical importance of Indigenous-led climate solutions, from wind energy projects to protected and conserved areas like the Seal River WatershedReal-world strategies for families to reduce their carbon footprint, including insights from Bridgette's participation in the Live Net Zero challenge with Canadian GeographicHow wildfires have created a devastating feedback loop—becoming Canada's largest source of greenhouse gas emissions while our boreal forests shift from carbon sinks to carbon sourcesThe intersection of climate justice and queer rights, and why inclusive spaces matter for building resilient communitiesPractical approaches to climate anxiety: acknowledging the fear while focusing on what we can control and influenceBridgette reminds us that while the climate crisis feels overwhelming, meaningful action starts with community—whether that's supporting evacuated families, advocating for wildfire prevention strategies, or creating the green jobs our economy needs for a just transition.As she powerfully states: "If we take care of the earth, the earth will take care of us, and if we destroy the Earth, the Earth will destroy us."Connect with Brigette: Narratives IncPoetry book: "Sun Compass" Get Involved: Learn about Indigenous Clean EnergyExplore the Live Net Zero ChallengeSupport Biz for Climate ManitobaFind queer-affirming spaces through the LGBTQ Chamber of CommerceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aaron Pollock: Architecture as Human Rights - Designing Spaces for Justice and InclusionIt's Pride month, and we're sitting down with Aaron Pollock, associate architect at Number TEN Architectural Group and the lead architect behind the Rainbow Resource Centre's groundbreaking phase two expansion. Aaron brings together his passion for inclusive design with real-world expertise in creating what he calls "purpose-built queer spaces" - moving beyond simply adapting existing buildings to designing from the ground up with community needs at the centre. In this episode, Aaron shares:How the concept of "queering space" differs from designing purpose-built queer spaces from the beginningWhy flexibility, adaptability, and the absence of hierarchy are crucial elements in creating truly welcoming spacesThe innovative approach of "trauma-informed design" and how the "three Cs" - choice, comfort, and connection - guide architectural decisionsHow the Rainbow Resource Centre's new building is creating both loud-and-proud moments and quiet, tucked-away spaces for those at different stages of their journeyAaron reminds us that architecture isn't just about shelter or aesthetics - it's about dignity, access, and creating spaces where everyone can feel they belong.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Dr. Stanley Amaladas, Director of the Mauro Institute for Peace and Justice at the University of Manitoba. Dr. Amaladas reflects on his journey from Malaysia to Canada and shares a powerful story about his citizenship interview that shaped his understanding of human rights, responsibility, and dignity.We're exploring:How an uncomfortable citizenship interview became a lesson about rights, power, and responsibilityThe difference between the legal framework of rights and our human responsibility to othersWhy "who's right and who's wrong?" is often the wrong question in conflict resolutionDr. Amaladas' vision for continuing Arthur Mauro's dream of making Winnipeg a "cultural centre for hope"The importance of approaching difficult conversations with curiosity instead of judgmentHow we can speak to those in positions of power "in a way that is not tyrannical"Dr. Amaladas brings both academic expertise in Leadership Studies and personal experience to this thoughtful discussion about what it means to lead for peace. His perspective on treating people as people first - recognizing their dignity beyond their utility - offers an important lesson for navigating today's divided world.As Dr. Amaladas reminds us: "It's not going to come from theories or big ideas. It's going to come from people who treat people as people."Learn more about the Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace & JusticeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Ron Thiessen, Executive Director of CPAWS Manitoba, and Carly Gray, Environmental Education Manager, to discuss conservation initiatives in our province and the importance of connecting with nature.We're talking about:The ambitious goal of protecting 30% of Manitoba's land by 2030 (currently at 11%)The Seal River Watershed Indigenous Protected Area initiative in northern ManitobaEfforts to establish Assiniboine Forest as a National Urban ParkThe powerful connection between reconciliation and environmental educationWays that Indigenous knowledge and Western science complement each other in conservationBoth guests share inspiring insights about our responsibility to the natural world. As Carly explains, environmental education is about helping people recognize their inherent connection to nature and fostering a sense of responsibility toward it. Ron highlights the importance of balancing conservation with sustainable development, noting that CPAWS isn't against development but seeks to protect crucial ecosystems.Whether you're curious about local conservation initiatives or looking for ways to connect with Manitoba's natural spaces, this conversation offers practical insights into how we can protect our environment while fostering community engagement.To find out more about CPAWs and the work they are doing, visit https://cpawsmb.orgFind out about:Protecting Assiniboine Forest as a National Urban ParkThe Seal River Watershed Indigenous Protected Area initiativeOutdoor education programming and resourcesAnd lots more...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We welcome back Dr. Rehman Abdulrehman to discuss his new book, "Developing Anti-Racist Cultural Competence." In this episode, he breaks down how traditional approaches to cultural competence often centre whiteness and view other cultures through a colonial lens. Instead, he offers a transformative framework that begins with self-reflection about our own biases.We're talking:Why traditional cultural competence models can perpetuate racism by viewing other cultures as exotic or "other"How anti-racist cultural competence starts with examining our own biases and recognizing our role in the same "fishbowl"The concept of "politicized identities" and how human rights issues are often mislabeled as political issuesWhy the "celebrate everything" initiative could help redefine community and shift cultural perceptionsHow cognitive flexibility and building social connections contribute to psychological resilienceDr. Abdulrehman reminds us that this work isn't just for white people – it's for everyone. He challenges the common excuse "I'm not racist, but..." by explaining how claiming to be "colorblind" actually erases and ignores the real harm experienced by racialized people.Whether you're a leader looking to implement meaningful change in your organization or an individual seeking to better understand anti-racism, this conversation offers practical insights on moving from awareness to action right here in Winnipeg.Find out more:Read "Developing Anti-Racist Cultural Competence"Test your own bias with Bias Outside the BoxLearn more about the "Celebrate Everything" initiativeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Haran Vijayananthan, Community Health and Wellness Director at Klinic Community Health Center. Haran shares his experience challenging the Toronto Police Service over their handling of missing persons cases and his current work making healthcare more accessible to marginalized communities right here in Winnipeg.We're talking:Why "awareness" without action falls short in creating real changeHow Haran's work led to concrete reforms in how police handle missing persons casesThe barriers that prevent people from moving from awareness to activismWhy understanding intersectionality is crucial for effective human rights workReal strategies for engaging with systems to create lasting policy changesWhether you're wondering how to move beyond social media activism or looking for examples of successful advocacy that creates systemic change, this conversation offers practical insights into making meaningful progress on human rights issues that affect our local community while connecting to larger global movements.Haran reminds us: "If you're living in 2025, unless you're a young child, you're aware of the behaviors and issues in society. What are you going to do about it?"See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stuart Murray sits down with Devon Clunis, the first Black Chief of Police in Canadian history, to discuss his new autobiography "ONE: A Story of Hope in Our Time."Devon shares his journey from a small Jamaican village without running water to becoming a transformative leader in the Winnipeg Police Service. More than just a memoir, Devon's book serves as a catalyst for meaningful conversations about unity in diversity during increasingly divided times.We're talking:Why Devon felt compelled to write this book now and its timely messageHow his personal experiences shaped his vision for community policingThe concerning finding that among 16,000 Canadians surveyed, only 6 people expressed satisfaction with the current state of the worldDevon's powerful encounters with mentors who changed his life trajectoryA surprising full-circle moment connecting Devon's family history to WinnipegHow faith and resilience guided him through his most challenging experiences as an officerDevon offers a refreshing perspective on building community in an age of isolation, emphasizing that "diversity alone is not the solution - we need to be unified in that diversity."Check out ONE: A Story of Hope in Our TimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Ralph Bryant – a writer, filmmaker, and mental health advocate who's making waves in Winnipeg's community. Originally from the Bronx, Ralph brings a unique perspective to mental health advocacy, particularly focusing on Black men's mental health through his documentary project "On the Verge."In this episode, Ralph shares:His personal journey through mental health challenges, including his hospitalization in 2018The alarming statistics showing Black youth suicide rates rising faster than any other population in Canada, with Black men four times more likely to die by suicide than Black womenThe "Love Notes Campaign" - a citywide initiative Ralph launched on World Mental Health Day, posting words of affirmation and support throughout WinnipegHow barriers to mental health resources disproportionately affect people of color, with wait times potentially twice as longThe power of personal storytelling as Ralph discusses his documentary "On the Verge," which incorporates real audio recordings from before and during his hospitalizationRalph's journey from trauma to advocacy shows how personal struggles can transform into community action. His Love Notes Campaign stands as a beautiful reminder that sometimes the simplest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference in someone's day.As Ralph powerfully states: "There is no more important right for us to be focused on than the right to our mental health."Connect with Ralph:Instagram: @ralph_bryantEmail: ralphbryantwriter@gmail.comGet Involved:Volunteer for the Love Notes CampaignHost a screening of "On the Verge" once it's availableSupport mental health initiatives in your communitySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For our milestone 100th episode, veteran journalist and Winnipeg Free Press columnist Dan Lett takes over the interviewer's chair to dig into host Stuart Murray's journey from Canadian Museum for Human Rights CEO to human rights podcast creator.Murray opens up about discovering Winnipeg's rich but often overlooked human rights community, sharing stories of local champions like Dilly Knol, who transformed how she sources food for vulnerable community members - refusing to accept "almost garbage" food for the people she serves at Andrews Street Family Centre.The conversation tackles tough questions: How well do Canadians really understand human rights issues in their own backyard? When someone asks "haven't we talked about reconciliation enough?", how do you respond? Murray and Lett explore these challenges while reflecting on the power of difficult but necessary conversations.Stuart reminisces about:The unexpected lessons from 99 conversations with Winnipeg's human rights advocatesWhy reading an actual treaty document can change perspectives on reconciliationHow Sunshine House's "Museum of Love" is reshaping harm reduction in WinnipegThe surprising Manitoba roots of basic annual income programsWhether you're a longtime listener or new to the show, this candid conversation between two veteran Winnipeg voices offers a fresh look at how local action shapes human rights progress right here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Byron Williams and Taylor Galvin sit down to discuss their unprecedented legal case, one thing becomes clear - they're fighting for something much bigger than themselves. The duo is part of a landmark effort to grant legal rights to Lake Winnipeg under Section 7 of Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms - the first case of its kind in Canada.In this episode, we explore how traditional Indigenous knowledge and Western legal frameworks are coming together to protect one of the world's largest freshwater lakes. Taylor Galvin, a proud member of the Sturgeon Clan from Broken Head Ojibway Nation, brings spiritual and cultural context to the lake's significance, while veteran public interest lawyer Byron Williams breaks down the legal strategy that could reshape environmental protection across Canada.We're covering:Why Lake Winnipeg is considered "sick" and what that means for communities that depend on itHow Manitoba Hydro's 50-year license renewal in 2026 creates a critical window for actionThe role of Indigenous women as water protectors and knowledge carriersWays that Western science and Indigenous knowledge can work together to heal the lakeThis isn't just a story about environmental protection - it's about reconciliation, indigenous rights, and reimagining our relationship with the natural world. As Williams puts it: "I don't think our clients are the radical ones here. I think our clients are asking Manitoba to do what they should have done 50 years ago."Guests:Byron Williams - Director, Public Interest Law CenterTaylor Galvin - Graduate Student, University of Manitoba & Indigenous Knowledge CarrierTo learn more about this groundbreaking case, visit the Southern Chiefs' Organization website to read the full Statement of Claim.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We sit down with Theodore Biggs-Engel, a transgender activist, researcher, and fourth-year health sciences student at the University of Manitoba who is using systems mapping – a method for visualizing how different parts of complex systems interact and influence each other – to better understand gender-affirming care.As president of the Rainbow Pride Center and queer representative on the university's union board of directors, Theo brings both personal experience and academic rigor to the conversation about gender-affirming care in Manitoba. His work using systems mapping to analyze barriers to care recently placed fourth in a national competition.We're discussing:What systems mapping reveals about barriers to gender-affirming careCommon misconceptions about gender-affirming care and its scope beyond medical transitionThe critical role of education in K-12 schools and healthcare settingsCurrent challenges in research and data collection affecting the transgender communityHow local organizations like the Rainbow Resource Center and Manitoba Clinic are making a differenceTheo offers practical insights for allies and healthcare providers while sharing his personal journey as a transgender man in Winnipeg.To learn more about this topic: Watch Theo's "Map the System Canada 2024" PresentationTheo recommends:Watching: "Disclosure" "Will & Harper Take a Road Trip" "I saw the TV Glow"Reading: "Detransition Baby" by Torrey PetersFollowing: Fae JohnstoneConnecting locally with: Norwest Coop, Rainbow Resource Centre, Klinic Community Health See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Humans, On Rights we talk with the Founder of the Joy Smith Foundation. Joy Smith’s journey, and the history behind the Foundation, are testimony that the actions of one individual can make a difference for so many others.Joy jumped into action after learning no laws yet existed in Canada to protect victims, or to bring perpetrators to justice. She decided to run, and won, a seat in the Manitoba Legislature in 1999. In 2004, she became a Member of Parliament and made Canadian history as the first sitting MP to amend the Criminal Code twice, strengthening sentencing for traffickers and expanding Canadian laws to reach internationally.In 2011, Joy founded the Joy Smith Foundation and with the help of volunteers and supporters, continues to advocate and raise awareness for this important issue across Canada and around the world.The Joy Smith Foundation is Canada’s leading authority on human trafficking prevention, intervention and support for survivors. Through strengthened criminal laws, enhanced community awareness and compassionate support for survivors, we’ve helped over 7000 human trafficking survivors and their families restore their lives, heal and integrate back into their communities. What makes The Joy Smith Foundation unique is our depth of understanding of the human trafficking experience and our commitment to addressing each survivor’s unique needs. We are more than supporters; we are partners in their journey towards healing and hope.A Transcription of this episode is availalbe on our network page.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Poverty is a human rights issue. A “Basic Income” is a policy idea centered on providing all individuals within a society with a regular, unconditional payment from the government. This payment is intended to cover essential living expenses, ensuring everyone has a financial safety net regardless of their employment status, income level, or personal circumstances.From 1974 to 1979 Manitoba experimented with a social program called the Manitoba Basic Annual Income or “Mincome”. Mincome was a landmark study that took place in Dauphin Manitoba and parts of Winnipeg. Evelyn Forget, a distinguished professor of economics and community Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba shares her thoughts on the health and social implications of poverty and inequality and why a basic income is important to address those issues.Despite critics who often raise concerns about its cost, potential effects on workforce participation, and implementation challenges, through her research Forget explains that a basic income is a way to reduce poverty and in addition proved that there were actual positive outcomes on the health care system both in reduction of hospital stays and the mental well-being of the residents and the community.Evelyn Forget is the author of “Basic Income for Canadians” and co-author of “Radical Trust: basic income for complicated lives” is often called upon by governments , First Nations and international organizations to advise on poverty, inequality, health and social outcomes. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and an Officer of the Order of Canada.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.