OHRC launches Right to Read public inquiry
Today, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) launched Right to Read, a public inquiry into human rights issues that affect students with reading disabilities in Ontario’s public education system.
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Re: Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) No. 163 – School Board Policies on Service Animals
Dear Minister Lecce,
I trust this letter finds you well. On behalf of the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC), congratulations on your appointment as Minister of Education. In its 2017-2022 Strategic Plan, the OHRC identified education as a focus area and committed to identifying and addressing the systemic discrimination children and youth face in education.
OHRC’s new policy will support law enforcement to eliminate racial profiling
Today, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) released its new Policy on eliminating racial profiling in law enforcement at the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) CEOs Day. This policy, the first of its kind in Canada, offers practical guidance to help law enforcement identify and end racial profiling. The OACP is committed to the principles outlined in the policy, and more than 20 community and advocacy groups have added their support or endorsement.
In support of the Policy on eliminating racial profiling in law enforcement
Community comments on the Policy on eliminating racial profiling in law enforcement
Ontario Human Rights Commission Written Deputation to the Toronto Police Services Board re: Policy on Race-Based Data Collection, Analysis and Public Reporting
The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) welcomes the opportunity to provide a written deputation to the Toronto Police Services Board (TPSB) on its Policy on Race-Based Data Collection, Analysis and Public Reporting, which is being considered for approval at its September 19, 2019 meeting.
Re: Including gender identity, gender expression, family status and marital status in the TCDSB’s Code of Conduct
The OHRC is aware that the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) is considering amending its Code of Conduct to specifically include gender identity, gender expression, family status and marital status as grounds upon which members of the TCDSB community cannot be treated unfairly. Our understanding is that this issue is being specifically considered by the Catholic Education and Living our Catholic Values Sub-committee on September 25, 2019.
Report and recommendations on homelessness in Kenora
This report summarizes the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s (OHRC) observations and recommendations on the issues of homelessness and drug addiction in Kenora, Ontario. Under section 29 of the Ontario Human Rights Code, the OHRC can initiate reviews and inquiries and make recommendations related to incidents of tension or conflict in a community.
Ontario Human Rights Commission Submission to the Toronto Police Services Board re: Draft Policy on Race-Based Data Collection, Analysis and Public Reporting
The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) welcomes the opportunity to provide a submission to the Toronto Police Services Board (TPSB) on its Draft Policy on Race-Based Data Collection, Analysis and Public Reporting (Draft Policy).
OHRC Statement: 2019 Health and Physical Education Curriculum
All students deserve to see themselves and their families reflected in Ontario’s mandatory education curriculum, and should receive information necessary to protect their health and well-being. Over the past year, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has taken many steps to make this vision a reality.
Letter to Minister Greg Rickford on the closing of the Kenora emergency shelter
I am writing today about the Kenora emergency shelter (shelter) operated by the Ne-Chee Friendship Centre in conjunction with the provincially-funded Kenora District Services Board (KDSB).
Letter to Solicitor General Jones re: Hamilton Wentworth Detention Centre
Thank you for providing the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) with the opportunity to tour Hamilton Wentworth Detention Centre (HWDC) on July 15, 2019. I am writing today to provide a summary of what we learned...
The public service should reflect the full diversity of our community
This opinion editorial by Chief Commissioner Renu Mandhane was published in the Globe and Mail on July 23, 2019.
Letter to Minister Pablo Rodriguez on Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy
I wish to commend the government of Canada on the recently released Building a Foundation for Change: Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2019–2020.
Letter to TTC Chair and CEO on anti-racism strategy
I am writing on behalf of the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) to commend the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) on its recent commitments to implement a comprehensive system-wide anti-racism strategy to prevent racial profiling, and to change the structure and culture of the Transit Enforcement Unit.
Letter to Minister Elliott on meeting the health care needs of people without regular immigration status
I am writing today to call on the government to take steps to make sure that Ontario’s health policies are consistent with its human rights obligations. In particular, we encourage the government to fully consider the needs of people without regular immigration status during its ongoing health system transformation.
Letter to Kenora Mayor Daniel Reynard on facilitating affordable housing
I am writing to congratulate the City of Kenora on taking steps to facilitate development of shelters, social housing, and other affordable housing, through amendments to your Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw.
Letter to Attorney General Downey
I hope this finds you well. On behalf of the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC), I am writing to congratulate you on your appointment as Attorney General of Ontario. For nearly 60 years, the OHRC has enjoyed a strong working relationship with the government and we look forward to continuing this relationship with you.
OHRC releases annual report, Foundation of Freedom
Today, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) submitted Foundation of Freedom, its 2018 – 2019 annual report. This report highlights the OHRC’s work to provide strong, independent oversight over human rights across Ontario.
OHRC Community Engagement Strategy: 2019 Update
From: About the Commission
The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) approved a Community Engagement Strategy, Communities for change, in 2018 and also committed to reviewing it on an annual basis. This Update summarizes the results of the 2019 review.
Anti-Black racism in the Ontario Public Service
Dear Secretary Davidson:
Thank you for meeting with me on May 27, 2019 to discuss anti-Black racism in the Ontario Public Service (OPS). I am writing today to request further details on the government’s existing and planned initiatives to address systemic racism in the OPS.
As we discussed, a group of racialized employees has asked to meet with the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) to discuss their concerns about anti-Black racism in the OPS. This meeting has been scheduled for June 19, 2019.
Addressing Discriminatory Advertising on Facebook in Canada
This is further to the discussions you had recently with representatives from the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) and Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC).
OHRC statement: Ontario Human Rights Commission takes action to respond to IMMIWG Calls for Justice
Today, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) is responding to the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Reclaiming Power and Place.
Mental health services for frontline workers
I am writing to commend the government on its recent announcements regarding investments in mental health services for frontline workers including correctional officers, and Ontario Provincial Police personnel and their families. The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) welcomes the government’s acknowledgment that many correctional staff and police officers face mental health issues.
OHRC and OFIFC reaffirm joint commitment to reconciliation
TORONTO – In April, 2019, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) and the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC) renewed an agreement, originally signed in April 2017, to work together with the ultimate goal of ending discrimination against Indigenous peoples in Ontario. The renewed agreement reinforces our ongoing collaboration with urban Indigenous communities based on trust, dignity, respect and a shared commitment to reconciliation and substantive equality.
Letter to Solicitor General Jones - Elgin Middlesex Detention Centre
Thank you for providing the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) with the opportunity to tour Elgin Middlesex Detention Centre (EMDC) in London, Ontario on March 21, 2019.
Letter to municipalities on the harmful impact of Indigenous-themed sports logos
The OHRC wrote to 40 municipalities about the harmful impact of Indigenous-themed sports logos in city facilities.
Letter to Minister Raymond Cho
We agree that accessibility is good for business and that employment is a fundamental issue for people with disabilities. In fact, Canada and Ontario recognize through its international treaty obligations that people with disabilities have the right to work like everyone else.
Letter to Minister Thompson Re: Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) – school board policies on service animals
The OHRC generally supports the overall intent of the Ministry’s draft Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) for school board policies on service animals in schools.
Letter to Attorney General Mulroney - Bill 83 An Act to proclaim a Day of Remembrance and Action on Islamophobia
I am writing on behalf of the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) to support Bill 83, An Act to proclaim a Day of Remembrance and Action on Islamophobia.
Letter to Minister Rickford and Attorney General Mulroney: Bill 76 and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
I am writing today to communicate the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s (OHRC) strong support for Bill 76, An Act to ensure that the laws of Ontario are in harmony with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Ontario Court of Appeal sets limits on administrative segregation
Today, the Court of Appeal for Ontario unanimously held that administrative segregation of any prisoner for more than 15 days is cruel and unusual treatment, contrary to s. 12 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
OHRC launches online videos on its Policy on accessible education for students with disabilities
The OHRC has released videotapes of a training session on our new Policy on accessible education for students with disabilities. OHRC Senior Policy Analyst Cherie Robertson leads you through key elements of the policy.
Ontario Human Rights Commission Submission to the Standing Committee on Justice Policy Bill 68, Comprehensive Ontario Police Services Act
The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) offers the following submission on Bill 68, The Comprehensive Ontario Police Services Act, 2019.
Adam Capay case shows Ontario must eliminate the inhumane practice of segregation
Originally published by the Globe & Mail - The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) was sounding the alarm on this inhumane practice well before I met Adam Capay in a segregation cell in the Thunder Bay Jail in October 2016.
Letter to the Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services: An action plan to end segregation in Ontario
I am writing today about the Superior Court of Justice’s decision in R. v Capay (2019 ONSC 535) dated January 28, 2019. Consistent with other recent court cases and the OHRC’s earlier calls to action, the factual findings in R. v Capay confirm that segregation is harmful to health, increases risk and undermines safety, rehabilitation and reintegration. As I am sure you will agree, Justice Fregeau’s findings are extremely troubling and call for decisive action.
Letter: Housing supply consultation
January 25, 2019 - I am writing today to provide the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s (OHRC) perspective on the government’s consultation on increasing the housing supply in Ontario.
Deputation to the Toronto Police Services Board regarding the Toronto Police Services Board’s Anti-Racism Advisory Panel
The OHRC makes the following deputation to the Toronto Police Services Board (TPSB) in response to its Anti-Racism Advisory Panel (ARAP) Quarterly Update.
OHRC settlement addresses harmful impact of stereotypes on Indigenous youth
Toronto – After the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario invited the OHRC to intervene in the case of Gallant v Mississauga, the OHRC reached a settlement with the City of Mississauga and the Applicant, Bradley Gallant. The settlement addresses the harmful impact of stereotypes on Indigenous youth by requiring Mississauga to remove from its sports facilities all Indigenous-themed mascots, symbols, names and imagery related to non-Indigenous sports organizations.
OHRC interim report on Toronto Police Service inquiry shows disturbing results
Toronto - Today, on International Human Rights Day, the OHRC released A collective impact, the interim report on its inquiry into racial profiling and racial discrimination of Black persons by the Toronto Police Service.
Second annual Community Advisory Group summit shows the power of “working together as one”
Toronto - At the second annual OHRC Community Advisory Group Summit, on November 20 and 21, 2018, approximately 40 representatives serving diverse communities across Ontario offered their expertise, lived experience and insight on commitments made in the OHRC’s 2017-2022 Strategic Plan, Putting people and their rights at the centre.
OHRC releases Indigenous peoples and human rights dialogue report
Toronto – Today, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) released To dream together: Indigenous peoples and human rights dialogue report.
Human rights commissions across Canada applaud BC Government's move towards reinstating a BC Human Rights Commission
Human Rights Commission across Canada - members of the Canadian Association of Statutory Human Rights Agencies (CASHRA) - applaud the government of British Columbia's plans to establish an independent human rights commission.
OHRC releases new policy guidance on human rights and cannabis
Toronto – Today, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) released a new policy statement on cannabis and Ontario’s Human Rights Code.
OHRC intervenes in education curriculum case at the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario
Toronto – Today, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) filed a notice of intervention with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) in the case of AB v Ministry of Education, involving recent changes to Ontario’s education curriculum.
All children should feel like they belong at school
OPINION - The first day of school is a time to reconnect and arrive recharged and ready to learn. But for students with disabilities and their families, it is often a day that is filled with anxiety.
OHRC releases new policy and recommendations on accessible education
Toronto – Today, the OHRC released its new Policy on accessible education for students with disabilities, along with recommendations on how to best meet legal obligations under Ontario’s Human Rights Code.
OHRC’s annual report examines what impacts us today and where we need to go tomorrow
Toronto – Today, the OHRC released Impact today, investment for tomorrow, its 2017-2018 Annual Report.
OHRC successfully challenges restrictions to benefits for workers aged 65+
Toronto – The OHRC intervened in Talos v Grand Erie District School Board to challenge the provision of Ontario’s Human Rights Code that allowed employers to cut or reduce benefits to workers aged 65 and over. The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario found that subsection 25(2.1) of the Code, as well as related provisions in the Employment Standards Act and its regulations, amount to age discrimination and violate the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
OHRC releases report on its inquiry into the over-representation of Indigenous and Black children in Ontario’s child welfare system
Toronto – On April 12, 2018 the OHRC released Interrupted Childhoods: Over-representation of Indigenous and Black children in Ontario child welfare. The report outlines findings from its public interest inquiry into whether First Nations, Métis and Inuit (Indigenous) and Black children are over-represented at children’s aid societies (CASs), particularly in admissions into care.
Timmins must come to grips with Indigenous relations
TIMMINS — In February, Joey Knapaysweet, 21, and Angnes Sutherland, 62, both from Fort Albany First Nation, died in separate incidents involving the Timmins Police Service. Both incidents are being examined by the Special Investigations Unit. The deaths galvanized a community where Mayor Steve Black said a police gun had not been fired in the line of duty in 34 years.