The three recipients are being acknowledged for their work in establishing a PEI Chapter of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG). PFLAG is a national organization that offers support services to individuals and their friends and families around issues of sexuality.

Rev. Eric G. Fullerton, Ray Malone and Pat Malone have all been very active in addressing misconceptions concerning sexuality throughout PEI. They have visited schools and communities across the Island to raise awareness of the issues faced by gay, lesbian, transgendered and two-spirited Islanders, and have worked diligently to build strong and supportive communities.

Today’s presentation was made on International Human Rights Day, which is celebrated every year in countries around the world to commemorate the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The PEI Human Rights Commission created this annual award on the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to recognize individuals, groups or organizations that have made significant contributions toward the advancement of human rights in Prince Edward Island.

“International Human Rights Day is an important reminder that we must always be vigilant in our commitment to end discrimination,” said Attorney General Gerard Greenan, the Minister responsible for the Human Rights Commission. “I offer my congratulations to Rev. Eric G. Fullerton, Ray Malone and Pat Malone and thank them for their efforts to challenge homophobia and increase tolerance throughout PEI.”