Who is Melissa Atkinson?

The Melissa Atkinson Humnan Rights Accolade is named in honour of a Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in citizen with Han, Kaska, Tlingit roots, who passed away in 2019. Atkinson served as the chair of the Commission from 2004 and 2010. Throughout her life she was a tenacious advocate for access to justice for all, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable. A legal trailblazer, she was one of the first Yukon First Nation women to graduate from the University of Victoria’s law program in 1999, and the Yukon’s first Indigenous Crown attorney in 2002.

Atkinson herself stated, “I hope to tell future generations of Yukoners that I had the privilege and honour of helping to create the most comprehensive human rights act in the country. The progress towards realizing Yukon’s vision of equality will depend on public commitment and community and government support of new legislation to fight discrimination.” The Commission hopes that the Melissa Atkinson Human Rights Accolade will honour Melissa’s legacy as a fierce advocate for the human rights of all Yukoners.

What Are We Recongizing?

The Commission is seeking nominations from the public of community initiatives (i.e., an action, program, policy, project, or event) that are anti-discriminatory in nature, uphold human rights, and/or promote human dignity. This may include, but is not limited to:

• Campaigns that educate the public or lobby for systemic change.
• Policies or bylaws that protect marginalized groups from discrimination.
• Projects that provide support in employment, housing, or receiving goods and services.
• Events that celebrate or draw attention to important human rights issues in the Yukon.

What Are the Important Dates?

Nominations are accepted until July 31, 2026. The accolade is announced on December 1 and awarded on December 10 in honour of International Human Rights Day.

How to Submit a Nomination?

1. Complete the nomination form and provide a write-up (500 words maximum) explaining why the initiative is deserving of recognition.
2. Provide supporting documentation (i.e., a copy of the policy, event agenda, final report, etc.) for the initiative that is being nominated.
3. Send the nomination form and supporting document(s) to info@yukonhumanrights.ca.

How Will Nominations Be Assessed?

A panel comprising of a Commission Member, a Commission staff member, and a community representative will decide on the accolade. The below rubric will guide the panel in making their selection for the Melissa Atkinson Human Rights Accolade: