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Topics: Cultural rights

Stories

We are Roma

By Gina Csanyi-Robah with Shayna Plaut, Ph. D.

Most Canadians know the Romani people as “Gypsies,” mythical wanderers of the earth, travelling free spirits who shun both work and education. But for millions of Roma around the globe, discrimination, exclusion and persecution of their communities and culture has been anything but a myth. This is also true in Canada, where Roma struggle for recognition, inclusion and human rights. This is our story of activism against injustice, racism and discrimination.

A painting of the Romani flag, which is blue on top, green on the bottom and has a red chakra that looks like a wagon wheel in the centre.

Beyond the Beats and Rhymes Is Life

By Mark V. Campbell (DJ Grumps)

For decades, hip hop has spoken truth to power. Its lyrics, rhythms, dance and art express youth culture, challenge inequality, and resonate around the world.

A woman in a grey jacket and darker grey pants is breakdancing on a sidewalk during daytime. Trees and buildings are in the background.

The Amchitka Campaign

By Barbara Stowe

Music played a key role in the founding of Greenpeace. Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and others played a benefit concert to raise money for its momentous first mission.

A boat in the water with mountains and clouds in the background. Its sail is decorated with large peace signs.

Language rights are human rights

By Rémi Courcelles

Exploring Canada’s official languages framework.

A stop sign and street sign in both English and French are seen in front of trees.

Bringing the potlatch home

By Matthew McRae

A black and white image of an elderly woman with white hair holding a mask that is shaped and painted to represent a bird’s head. It features a long beak with an open mouth and feathers attached to the top of the head. The woman is looking directly at the mask she is holding.

Resource guides

Music and human rights

Learn more about the connection between music, activism, protest and human rights issues

An antique chrome-plated microphone in the centre of the image is encircled by multicoloured rays over a mottled blue and green background.

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