Last week, MP John Barlow and municipal Councillors Dave Filipuzzi and Dean Ward hobnobbed with the Boys and Girls Club of Crowsnest Pass at Isabelle Sellon School in celebration of National Child Day.

The event allows elected officials to show their commitment to listening to young people. It falls on Nov. 20 but scheduling issues meant the Crowsnest group observed the occasion on Nov. 9.

Boys and Girls Clubs across Canada are inviting government officials from every level to visit their local club to celebrate National Child Day and commemorate the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Canada ratified this international legal commitment in 1991 to ensure that all persons under 18 are treated with dignity and respect.

According to a statement from the Boys and Girls Club of Canada, “Boys and Girls Clubs are guided by core values that closely align with the UN Conventions’ principles—that children have the right to have a voice, be protected from harm and be given opportunities to reach their full potential.”

“November 20 is an opportunity to celebrate the role of Boys and Girls Clubs in providing safe, supportive places where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life.”