Human Rights A Day

Former Manitoba Premier Edward Schreyer becomes Canada’s governor general. Edward Schreyer was Manitoba’s NDP premier between 1969 and 1977. A strong advocate of social democratic principles, he was a surprise pick for most Canadians when Liberal Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau appointed him Canada’s governor general. Schreyer was sworn in on January 22, 1979 – at the age of 43, Canada’s third youngest to take on the role. Prior to his appointment, all the queen’s representatives and heads of state had been “Canadian blue bloods” and/or individuals highly ensconced in the political sphere. The new Manitoban dignitary was anything but. Schreyer, with Ukrainian roots and a Catholic, was the first leader of the Manitoba CCF/NDP who was not of an Anglo-Saxon and Protestant background. His government was foremost in Canada regarding legislation in sustainable energy, the environment, as well as pharmaceutical care. His focus on environmental issues led to the creation of the Governor General's Conservation Awards in