Remembering

Remembering Linda McKay-Panos

A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy

Linda McKay-Panos, who served as the Executive Director of the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre (ACLRC) for nearly 30 years, passed away on November 3, 2024, leaving behind an enduring legacy of commitment to human rights and social justice.

Linda’s career began as a Language Arts and Social Studies teacher with the Calgary Board of Education before she pursued her passion for law, earning a Juris Doctor and a Master of Laws from the University of Calgary. She joined the ACLRC in 1992 as a Research Associate, and under her visionary leadership, the organization flourished into one of Alberta’s leading research institutions in civil liberties and human rights. Linda’s guidance helped shape the ACLRC into a respected voice advocating for equality, access to justice, and the protection of fundamental freedoms.

Beyond her role at the ACLRC, Linda contributed significantly to the broader community. She was a sessional instructor in the Faculties of Arts and Law at the University of Calgary, sharing her expertise with countless students. As Past President of the Alberta Association for Multicultural Education and the Public Legal Education Network of Alberta, Linda championed initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and education.

A prolific writer, Linda authored numerous publications addressing critical issues such as civil liberties, access to information, discrimination, and equality. Her work earned her multiple accolades, including the 2001 Suzanne Mah Award, the Alberta Centennial Medal in 2005, and recognition by the YWCA’s She Who Dares Canada 150 Project in 2017 for her contributions to human rights in Alberta.

Linda’s unwavering dedication to advancing human rights, fostering equity, and nurturing the ACLRC’s growth has left a profound impact on the organization and the communities it serves. Her vision and leadership continue to inspire those committed to creating a fairer, more just society.