In the past children have worn blue to commemorate the day. (File Photo/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

National Child Day

Local group hopes Child Day gets people thinking

Nov 20, 2019 | 8:15 AM

Today marks National Child Day.

The occasion has been recognized in Canada since 1993. Specifically, the day helps commemorate the United Nations (UN) adopting two important documents relating to the rights of children: The United Nations Declaration of the Rights of the Child, which was adopted in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted in 1989.

Donna Strauss, co-chair of Prince Albert Early Childhood Council (PAECC) said while the organization is not putting on an event this year, they hope to get people thinking about children and their rights.

“Think about how you make decisions in your organization or your government department, are those decisions influenced by what’s best for children,” she said.

Strauss said all of the rights laid out in the documents are important ones. Some of these rights include having basic needs met and being safe in the community. Strauss said these are not enjoyed by all kids.

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“I think there are lots of children in our community who do not have their basic needs met,” she said.

Strauss added recognizing the day on the local level is important given the occasion is proclaimed all over the world with nearly every country endorsing the UN documents.

In 2011 PAECC developed a local children’s charter which they presented to policy makers to help raise the issues. Strauss added she has noticed people are more aware about issues involving children and their importance.

“I think we are making some inroads into how people view early childhood development,” she said.

MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn