Honoring 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.

Born and raised in Venezuela, Alex Monteil made the transition to Canada in 2017, trading sunny beaches for the dynamic weather of Calgary. As a lawyer specializing in human rights and international humanitarian law, Alex holds a Master’s in Leadership and has dedicated the past 15 years to the non-profit sector.

Prior to the move, Alex worked with esteemed organizations such as the Red Cross and Jesuit Refugee Services, focusing on international humanitarian operations. Since arriving in Canada, Alex has continued the commitment to supporting local communities in overcoming social barriers, working with organizations like CRIEC, Pro Bono Law Alberta, United Way Calgary Area, and Diversecities Community Service Association.

Alex is excited to lead the organization through a new chapter of digital transformation and community outreach. The goal is to ensure that all Albertans have access to quality public legal information that addresses their civil liberties and human rights needs.

Myrna is the Research Associate at the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre. She has a law degree from Saint Joseph University in Beirut. She earned an M.A. in Human Rights and Democratization from the University of Malta, and an LL.M. in International Legal Studies from American University Washington College of Law. She practiced law in Lebanon and worked as a consultant in Washington D.C and New York. She was assistant dean for student affairs and a lecturer at Qatar University, where she taught international human rights and international humanitarian law. She also worked as a paralegal instructor at CDI College in Calgary. She is passionate about human rights and civil liberties and has been involved with many organizations that deal with immigrants, refugees and human rights issues.