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For immediate publication
Toronto -
statement
This year’s celebration of Black History Month is particularly significant as it marks the 200th anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act. Despite many positive developments in human rights protections since then, racism and racial discrimination continue to exist. Eliminating them and the barriers they create for many requires real commitment and joint effort from governments, institutions and organizations … in short, from all of us.
Black History Month reinforces the mandate of Ontario’s Human Rights Code to create “a climate of understanding and mutual respect for the dignity and worth of each person so that each person feels a part of the community”. It also allows us to learn our complete history and to acknowledge and celebrate the contribution that Black Canadians have made and continue to make every day to Ontario society.
Barbara Hall, B.A, LL.B, Ph.D (hon)
Chief Commissioner
Ontario Human Rights Commission
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