In a recent leadership transition at the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, Phylomène Zangio has been named as the new Chair, taking over from Claire Roussel-Sullivan. Zangio, a passionate advocate for women’s and minority rights, brings extensive experience and a strong commitment to advancing equality in the province.
Having immigrated to New Brunswick from the Democratic Republic of the Congo more than three decades ago, Zangio has devoted her career to fighting for the rights of marginalized communities.
Her notable contributions include serving as the first co-president of the New Brunswick Women’s Council and founding the New Brunswick Provincial Council of People of African Descent. Additionally, she has actively participated in various boards and committees, such as the Regroupement féministe du Nouveau-Brunswick and the Multicultural Association of the Greater Moncton Area.
Zangio’s dedication to community involvement, particularly in promoting the professional and social integration of newcomers, has earned her recognition.
In 2018, she was honored as one of the Top 25 Immigrants in the Maritimes. Furthermore, her exceptional leadership and influence were acknowledged with the Black Excellence Award in both 2015 and 2016. Presently, she is also a member of the New Brunswick Judicial Council.
Expressing her gratitude for the appointment, Zangio stated, “Being a member of the Human Rights Commission since 2022 has given me a unique perspective on the commission’s role, and I look forward to continuing the work of my predecessors as the next chair. The context of human rights is constantly evolving, adapting to meet the changes in society, and I am proud to be a part of the commission at this moment in history.”
In addition to the change in the chairmanship, the commission’s director, Marc-Alain Mallet, will be retiring after serving in that role for eight years.
Replacing him is Megan Griffith, who has been overseeing the commission’s Registrar Office since 2020. This leadership transition signifies the commission’s commitment to maintaining a strong and dedicated team focused on upholding human rights and fostering equality in New Brunswick.
Under the guidance of Phylomène Zangio’s leadership and the collective efforts of the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, the pursuit of equal rights and opportunities for all individuals in the province will continue to be prioritized.
