One Manitoba

Wolseley

As we welcomed the new year, many of us did so with heavy hearts – watching events unfold for our neighbours in Minnesota and witnessing the erosion of human rights in many parts of the world. Closer to home, Manitobans have stood together against a troubling wave of attacks targeting both our Muslim and Jewish neighbours. In moments like these, we are reminded how much it matters to look out for one another.

Our province has its own difficult human rights history. But I am proud of the work our government is doing today to advance reconciliation, strengthen human rights, and build a more inclusive province – one Manitoba – where everyone can feel safe to be themselves. Halfway through our first mandate, we can point to real, practical steps that reflect these values.

We introduced Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag, a four-year strategy to support the safety, dignity, and empowerment of Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit, and gender-diverse people, responding directly to the calls for justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We also passed legislation to formally recognize Ribbon Skirt Day, affirming cultural expression and the inherent dignity of Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people.

Our government removed the requirement to publish previous names when people change their name due to gender identity and eliminated the need for a medical letter to change gender markers on official documents. We added gender expression to the Manitoba Human Rights Code, expanded access to gender-affirming care, introduced universal birth control coverage, and made PEP, PrEP, and HIV treatment free for uninsured Manitobans.

Manitoba has a long history of celebrating the contributions of diverse communities. During our time in government, we passed legislation recognizing Nigerian Independence Day and Philippine Independence Day, as well as legislation honouring Islamic Heritage month and Asian Heritage month. These moments of recognition matter – they tell people they are seen and that they belong.

Most recently, we introduced legislation that highlights the linguistic and cultural uniqueness of sign languages used by deaf, hard-of-hearing and deaf-blind Manitobans. Manitoba is the first province in Canada to introduce standalone sign language recognition legislation. On Dec. 3, live American Sign Language interpretation was provided during question [eriod for the first time – a meaningful milestone for the Manitoba Legislature.

These aren’t just policy changes. They’re about people – about neighbours, families, and communities knowing they matter. They’re about choosing safety over fear, dignity over division, and belonging over exclusion. The work of building a fairer Manitoba begins with the values we stand up for together. No matter who you are or where you come from – we are one province. One Manitoba.

If you need help accessing provincial services, please reach out to my office at lisa.naylor@yourmanitoba.ca or 204-792-2773.