OHRC Chief Commissioner Barbara Hall regrets passing of Keith Norton

For immediate publication

Toronto - Ontario has lost a true human rights champion with the passing of Keith C. Norton.

Keith was Chief Commissioner of the OHRC from 1996 to 2005, but his dedication to social justice and his willingness to fight for the rights of everyone in our province was a driving force throughout his career as a lawyer, educator and cabinet minister.

During his time at the OHRC, Keith was never afraid to take on the tough issues. He launched a then-controversial inquiry into the effects of racial profiling which accelerated cultural change within police services. He initiated the project that led to the policy on gender identity, one of the first in the world to speak to the needs of transgendered people. He renewed a debate on age discrimination in Ontario that led to the end of mandatory retirement and a greater respect for the rights and aspirations of an aging population. An inquiry into accessibility at fast-food restaurants broke down barriers and opened doors for people with disabilities.

Keith inspired his colleagues at the Commission and across the broader human rights community to approach their work with passion and commitment. He showed us that even the toughest obstacles can be removed through strong will and hard work. We will miss him.

Our thoughts are with his family.

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