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Endnotes

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Endnotes

[1] Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H. 19, s. 8.

[2] Section 30 of the Code gives the OHRC the authority to approve policies to provide guidance on the application of Parts I and II of the Code. Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H 19, s.30.

[3] Section 31 of the Code details the OHRC’s authority to conduct public interest inquiries, including the entering of premises, requesting documents, and interviewing individuals, to investigate potential human rights concerns. The OHRC may appoint individuals to carry out these inquiries, and evidence gathered during an inquiry can be used in proceedings before the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO). Subsection 31(7) outlines the powers the appointed individuals have when conducting an inquiry. Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990 c. H.19, s.31.

[4] The OHRC’s functions and powers include but are not limited to:

  • Promote and advance respect for human rights in Ontario;
  • Protect human rights in Ontario;
  • Identify and promote the elimination of discriminatory practices and make recommendations to prevent and eliminate them;
  • Examine and review legislation, regulations, programs, and policies to identify and recommend changes to those that may be inconsistent with the Code;
  • Support and encourage public, municipal, or private organizations and individuals to engage in initiatives that alleviate human rights related tensions and conflicts;
  • Undertake public inquiries; and
  • Initiate and intervene in HRTO applications.

To read the specific functions of the Commission, see section 29 of the Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H. 19.

[5] A strong sense of belonging in youth is associated with positive health outcomes which in turn support positive social, and development pathways into adulthood. According to Statistics Canada, 96% of youth with a strong sense of belonging also reported being in good physical health, 86% reported positive mental health, 60% reported a high life satisfaction and 77% reported a positive future outlook. By comparison, 87% of youth with a weaker sense of belonging reported being in good physical health, 59% reported positive mental health, 29% reported a high life satisfaction and 44% reported a positive future outlook. Helen Foran, “Community and well-being: Exploring sense of belonging among youth” (29 Oct. 2025) 

[6] The Code may not impose a legal duty to report or demonstrate progress; however, this work often emerges contextually, particularly when a duty-holder knows, or ought to know, that systemic discrimination may be present. Where systemic discrimination may be present, duty-holders are expected to take steps to eliminate it. They are then expected to evaluate the impact of their efforts to address and mitigate further discriminatory practices.

[7] Ontario Certified Teachers must adhere to two professional standards as members of the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). The Ethical Standards for the Teaching Profession, which is grounded in care, respect, trust, and integrity. The Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession outline the knowledge, skills, and values guiding professional practice.

[8] Ontario Human Rights Commission, “Policy and guidelines on discrimination because of family status: VII Organizational responsibilities” (28 March 2007)

[9] The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. “Human Rights Indicators: A Guide to Measurement and Implementation” (01 Jan. 2012)

[10] Ibid.

[11] Ibid.

[12] Ontario Human Rights Commission, “Human Rights Based Approach Framework” (11 Oct. 2023)

[13] Employee survey should cover a wide range of workplace topics, including but not limited to, staffing practices, respectful environment, professional development, teamwork, tools and workspace, stress and workload, pay and benefits, recognition, job suitability, empowerment etc. See British Columbia Public Service (BCPS) Work Environment Survey for general background on employee engagement surveys), British Columbia Public Service (BCPS) “Work Environment Survey (WES)” (20 Sept. 2024)

[14] For an example of data gathered from an employment equity assessment see the BC Public Service (BCPS) Workforce Profiles Dashboard. The information from the Dashboard helps the BCPS make evidence-based decisions towards equitable treatment in hiring, training and promotion see British Columbia, “Workforce Profiles” (2024)

[15] OHRC, “Policy and Guidelines on Racism and Racial Discrimination” (9 June 2005)