Canadian Museum for Human Rights

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a national facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba, dedicated exclusively to exploring issues of human dignity and justice. Ten permanent galleries offer interactive stations, artifacts, and films covering topics from discrimination to freedom of expression.

Media entrepreneur Izzy Asper proposed the facility in the late 1990s to raise awareness about human rights issues. It opened in 2014, becoming the first Canadian national institution of its kind established outside the Ottawa region.

Indigenous voices shape much of the display, highlighting treaties, land claims, and the fight for language survival. Visitors encounter wampum belts, residential school testimonies, and contemporary art that reflects ongoing struggles for recognition.

The facility sits at The Forks, where the Assiniboine and Red Rivers meet, and is easily reached on foot from downtown. Galleries span multiple floors, so plan at least two hours to walk through the displays.

Translucent alabaster ramps link the floors, allowing daylight to filter into the exhibition spaces. From the Israel Asper Tower, visitors see across Winnipeg and watch the two rivers merge nearby.

Location: Manitoba

Inception: 2008

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Fee: Yes

Address: 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00; easter off

Website: https://humanrights.ca

GPS coordinates: 49.89080,-97.13100

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:28