The front of Canada’s newest $10 banknote features late civil rights pioneer Viola Desmond. (HANDOUT)
WINNIPEG — Canada’s newest $10 banknote officially went into circulation Monday, featuring late Nova Scotia civil rights pioneer and businesswoman Viola Desmond.
During a ceremony at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which is prominently featured on the reverse side of the bill, Desmond’s sister, Wanda Robson, was joined by Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz and CMHR president and CEO John Young to make the first purchase with the banknote.
Desmond is the first iconic Canadian woman to be featured on a regular circulated Bank of Canada note. The CMHR is also depicted, along with an eagle feather and an excerpt from the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
“Canadians will now carry a story about human rights in their pockets,” said CMHR president and CEO John Young.
The reverse features the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, along with an eagle feather and an excerpt from the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. (HANDOUT)
“The circulation of this new banknote represents an incredible opportunity to provoke questions and conversations all across the country about topics like racism and reconciliation and hope for the future.”
A limited-edition gift package containing the new $10 bill, with information about Desmond’s contribution and a message from Young will be available in the museum’s boutique starting Tuesday.
