By Adam Brazeau
CORNWALL, Ontario – Rachel’s Kids Charter of Children’s Rights is now firmly planted on the walls of the Benson Centre.
The charitable organization founded by Cornwall’s Dr. Rachel Navaneelan unveiled illustrations that represent all twelve rights on the charter with the fledgling artists and their parents, on Nov. 20.
“The goal is simple: come together as a city to reach an agreement of the basic rights every child in our community should enjoy,” said Navaneelan.
Rachel’s Kids has been working on this initiative for quite some time, both with the City of Cornwall and 10 community partners.
The charity reached out to local agencies like Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Children’s Aid Society, as well as area schools, to recruit the illustrators.
In perfect harmony with the multi-pad sports facility was Trinity Denneny’s drawing of a few young hockey players.
“It’s important because some kids don’t get to play with the others,” said Denneny, 11. “We should all be able to play together.”
Her mom, Sarah Dawson, praised Rachel’s Kids for helping to break barriers many children must face due to circumstances beyond their control.
“I like that the kids are being taken seriously, no matter where they come from,” said Dawson.
Navaneelan stressed that the purpose of the charter is not just to be plaques on a wall – it’s a challenge and a guide for Cornwall to do more for the next generation.
“The charter contains rights that are for the benefit of our children, but I have to point out that these rights are the responsibility of us adults,” she said.
The City of Cornwall has already endorsed the charter and has discussed using it as a pillar in strategic planning.
“Everyone talks about youth when they campaign, but what does that mean?” said Councillor-elect Bernadette Clement. “This kind of charter makes council focus on children’s rights and spells out in black and white what they need to have access to.”
Rachel’s Kids intends to use it as a mandate for how they select and fund their projects.
“We hope other organizations and community agencies will sign on too,” said Navaneelan.
RACHEL’S KIDS CHARTER OF CHILDREN’S RIGHTS:
– The right to basic needs: Every child has the right to love and be loved, healthy food, clothes for all seasons, a safe home, clean air, water and earth.
– The right to be heard: Every child has the right to his/her emotions and to share these feelings respectfully. To be heard and to listen to others.
– The right to a nurturing home: Every child has the right to feel safe and loved in his/her home and to spend time with family and friends.
– The right to an education: Every child has a right to learning and training – to be the best that he or she can be.
– The right to justice and protection: Every child has the right to be safe and respected at all times and in all places, at home, school, on the internet and in public.
– The right to make friends: Every child has a right to love, peace, and happiness.
– The right to culture, faith and beliefs: Every child has the right to be treated equally. To learn and practice his/her faith and culture without fear.
– The right to peace: Every child has a right to love, peace and happiness.
– The right to be different: Every child has the right to be himself or herself and to treat others as he or she would like to be treated.
– The right to privacy: Every child has the right to privacy when thinking, changing clothes and learning.
– The right to play: Every child has the right to play, explore, express and dream.
The right to equal access: Every child has the right to access health care, public places and opportunities to a good life.
