The 2012 GlobalFest Human Rights Forum has begun in the city and runs thru Friday.

The 5th annual forum is based on discussions that will focus on important aboriginal issues in hopes of working towards positive solutions and covering topics such as myths, education and justice.

Forum coordinator Lisa Fleming tells 660News, one of the highlights of the week is an appearance by former Prime Minister Paul Martin who will be the guest speaker at a breakfast on Wednesday at the Hyatt Regency Calgary.

The intent of the forum is to address issues of racism and discrimination in a positive and safe environment.