Manitoba NDP leadership candidate Steve Ashton pledged Tuesday to make the province a model for human rights if he becomes premier.

Ashton said he would introduce legislation that would target racism and intolerance.

His so-called dignity bill would ensure governments, workplaces and public establishments worked towards zero tolerance for discriminatory, demeaning or racist actions.

Ashton said the legislation would strengthen and expand Manitoba's existing human-rights laws.

Ashton, who is running for the party leadership against Greg Selinger, made the announcement during a campaign stop in Winnipeg at the site of the future Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

The two members of the legislature resigned from cabinet positions this month to seek the leadership.

The winner will replace Gary Doer, the longtime premier who has been named Canada's next ambassador to the U.S.

NDP delegates will choose a new leader Oct. 17.