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Portrait of the Four Designated Groups in the Canadian Workplace
A New Approach
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Who Makes Human Rights Decisions?
Chief Commissioner’s Message
Thirty years ago, the authors of the Canadian Human Rights Act were intent on creating more than a piece of anti-discrimination legislation. Through section 27, they articulated their vision for a Commission that fosters understanding and recognition of human rights principles.
This year marked a turning point for the Commission. Through outreach, we strengthened our role as a proactive and influential human rights catalyst, both nationally and internationally.
The Commission continued to inform and influence public debate. In particular, in the context of issues affecting Aboriginal peoples and communities, the Commission made gains in encouraging the repeal of section 67 of the Canadian Human Rights Act.
Influencing a positive shift in the culture of human rights in Canadian society requires the cooperation of a large network of organizations and people. Open dialogue, collaboration and shared responsibility created progress towards integrating human rights into daily practice and produced solutions to human rights challenges within workplaces and service delivery centres.
A streamlined, more user-friendly Employment Equity Act compliance audit process encouraged employers to take on a greater role in their compliance.
Increased emphasis on early dispute resolution through mediation and informal dialogue better served those who contacted the Commission about possible discrimination. Positive impacts for those involved included reduced emotional distress, strengthened morale, increased productivity and savings in time and money.
Significant gains were made for the rights of persons with disabilities through the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision involving the Council for Canadians with Disabilities and VIA Rail; the Commission argued persuasively as an intervener at the hearings. Globally, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was a major milestone in international human rights law; the Commission was a partner in drafting the Convention.
The international human rights community acknowledged our expertise by electing the Commission as Chair of the Internation al Coordinating Committee of National Institutions for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights. In this role, we support the creation and strengthening of national institutions worldwide. We are also leading a review of the Committee’s functions, structure, procedures and governance.
Within the Commission, we continue to foster our own organizational culture of respect, integrity, dignity, and understanding that supports our role as a dynamic and progressive leader in human rights promotion and practice.
It is my privilege to lead such a committed, high-performing organization. The Commission’s staff and Commissioners embody our values; and their professionalism, expertise and unwavering commitment are the essential qualities that will sustain our new momentum as an innovative leader in promoting the human rights agenda.
Jennifer Lynch, Q.C.
Chief Commissioner
