News Releases

Tony Comper, President and Chief Executive Officer, BMO Financial Group, personally presented BMO's pledge of $750,000 to Canadian Museum for Human Rights Campaign Chair, Gail Asper in Winnipeg today.

The presentation formalized BMO's pledge of support to the Museum made in 2004.  “BMO was one of the first major banks in Canada to step forward with a donation to the Museum,” said Ms. Asper.  “Our country is fortunate to have a visionary leader like Tony Comper who not only strives for excellence in business, but also understands the importance of strengthening the social fabric of our nation.”

Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights has raised more than $60 million in private donations and over $140 million from government sources towards the $311 million project.     

"As citizens of the world, Canadians must take an active role in promoting human rights and creating a world of tolerance and inclusion through initiatives such as the Canadian Museum for Human Rights," said Mr. Comper.  "At BMO, we draw our strength from the diversity of our people and a respectful work environment that encourages all to have a voice."

Scheduled to open in 2010, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights will offer a life-changing experience that - through the chronicling of Canada's human rights journey, the enshrinement of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the celebration of human rights heroes, the active discussion and examination of human rights failures and triumphs, and the invitation to stand up and stand firm for global rights and freedoms - will inspire citizens, particularly young people,  to make a difference at home and around the world.

“This Museum will be a powerful symbol of Canada's unwavering commitment to recognizing, promoting and celebrating human rights, “said Ms. Asper.

Since its founding in 1817 as Bank of Montreal, BMO Financial Group has supported the principles of community reinvestment and corporate and social responsibility to the communities it serves. In 2005, BMO Financial Group contributed $29.5 million in corporate donations, sponsorships and events in Canada, supporting thousands of communities, charities and not-for-profit organizations across the country. BMO was also named Canada's Best Corporate Citizen for 2005 by Corporate Knights. BMO Bank of Montreal operates 31 branches in Manitoba and BMO Nesbitt Burns has two offices in the province.