Statement from Interim Chief Commissioner Barry Wilcox, K.C.

January 29, 2024

I am stepping down as Interim Chief Commissioner of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission, effective January 31, 2024.

I have been with the Commission since 2011, and in that time I’ve developed a deep interest and appreciation for the people of Saskatchewan. Our province is populated by highly diverse, inherently principled, well-meaning, and hard-working people – all the things Saskatchewanians pride themselves in and are known for throughout the world.

Over the past 12 years, I have come to realize that human rights, and the equality and dignity they promise, must be central to our policies and decision-making processes. It is important to learn about our rights and their corresponding responsibilities, while always respecting others.

Respect is the key to a vibrant and welcoming province. All conflict and confrontation is rooted in the lack of respect for each other. We must work together to repair fissures and reduce polarization in our communities and our province. The Commission’s restorative justice mandate is designed to do just that.

Often, the public sees the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission merely as a policing or enforcement agency, tasked with investigating and prosecuting offenders of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018. Yet, that is only a small part of the Commission’s mandate. Among numerous other things, the Commission is charged with systemically providing direction for best practices and educating the public about the benefits and necessity of human rights.

I have long been a believer in the power of education and the importance of human rights. A strong human rights platform can be a significant economic driver. It can make Saskatchewan more appealing to newcomers, give us a leg up on other jurisdictions we are competing against for human resources, and help forge a path towards sustained economic development.

Human rights are part of our everyday lives, whether we recognize it or not. Respect is essential. Not just respect for the similarities we share, but also for our differences. It is our differences that make us who we are as a province. Saskatchewan’s motto – “from many peoples, strength” – speaks directly to that. It tells us that we are better and stronger when we embrace diversity, inclusion, equality, and unity.

Barry Wilcox, K.C.