An Advocate for Human Rights and Dignity, Randy Dickinson Was in a Class by Himself.

Randy in his Search and Rescue gear

Around the New Brunswick Legislature, the Fredericton Council Chamber, or in volunteering with his diverse causes including York Sunbury Search and Rescue, Randy could always be seen in his electric wheelchair. He was a tireless worker. 

Randy died of cancer last week at the age of 71, a venerable campaigner for his favourite disability causes. He was the first executive director of the Premier’s Council on Disabilities; also, the chair of the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission. 

Dickinson was awarded the Order of Canada in 1999 and the Order of New Brunswick in 2022.

In a social media post, the Premier’s Council on Disabilities said he was “a true pillar of our community and a remarkable advocate for inclusion, accessibility and human dignity.”

“He inspired others through his compassion, wisdom, advocacy and belief that everyone deserves to be seen, heard and included,” the council statement said.



“His legacy will continue through the many lives he changed, the communities he strengthened and the important work he helped build.”

New Brunswick Human Rights Commission chairwoman Amber Chisholm also paid tribute to her predecessor in a statement last Tuesday.

“The New Brunswick Human Rights Commission mourns the passing of Randy Dickinson, who served as the commission’s chairperson from 2010 to 2015, and then as a commission member from 2022 to 2026,” she wrote.

“Randy devoted his life to the advancement of human rights, accessibility and equity for every single person living in New Brunswick. All of us at the commission are honoured to have known him, worked alongside him and learned from him.”

Premier Susan Holt also acknowledged Dickinson’s contributions to the cause that was so close to his heart.

“Randy dedicated so much of his life to advancing accessibility, inclusion and equality for persons with disabilities,” she said in a statement.

“Randy will be remembered for the impact he had on people, his compassion, his tireless advocacy and his unwavering belief in a more inclusive New Brunswick,” said the Premier. 
“His advocacy and leadership helped shape better policies and stronger supports for many, and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.”
​
Randy is survived by his wife and “Number One Partner” in all things, Karen Dickinson.
​
The family remembers what Randy taught: “Would you like some help and if yes, what can I do to help?”

Randy’s obituary noted that he was never afraid of hard things and lived his life to the fullest. His approach was similar to that of the young, dynamic U.S. President, John F. Kennedy who said in September 1962, “We choose to go to the Moon…in this decade and do other things not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”
​
In his own way, Randy also chose to aim for the moon. He always said that he wanted to be an engaged citizen, and do for others what he wanted done for himself. He wanted to be helpful and kind. 

---