The Commission

Legislation

The Canadian Human Rights Commission’s founding legislation inspires a vision for Canada in which “all individuals should have an opportunity equal with other individuals to make for themselves the lives that they are able and wish to have,” free from discrimination.

The Commission leads the administration of the Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA) and ensures compliance with the Employment Equity Act (EEA). The CHRA prohibits discrimination on the grounds of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability and conviction for which a pardon has been granted. The EEA promotes equality in the workplace of the four designated groups: women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities.

Both laws apply the principles of equal opportunity and non-discrimination to federal government departments and agencies, Crown corporations and federally regulated private sector organizations. The provinces and territories have laws similar to the CHRA that also address discrimination.

In June 2008, following many years of debate, Aboriginal people affected by the Indian Act finally received full access to human rights law through Parliament’s repeal of section 67 of the CHRA. This is a milestone in the development of human rights law in Canada.

Mandate

The Commission has a mandate under the CHRA to promote the core principle of equality of opportunity and to protect individuals from discrimination in employment and in the provision of services.

A key part of the Commission’s mandate is to foster public understanding of the Act, the role and activities of the Commission, and of the core principle. To achieve this, the Commission may undertake any activities it considers appropriate. For example, it may conduct information programs, develop research, submit Special Reports to Parliament, comment on legislation, liaise with provincial and territorial human rights bodies, develop policy, and issue guidelines.

The mandate also includes receiving and processing complaints, investigating those that are determined to be within the Commission’s jurisdiction, and making a determination as to the outcome: dismissal, conciliation, or a hearing by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal. Throughout the complaints process, the Commission encourages settlements by providing opportunities for dialogue and mediation. The Commission also participates as a party or intervenor before courts and tribunals to make submissions that advance human rights for all Canadians.

Under the EEA, the Commission audits federally regulated employers to ensure that they are providing equal opportunities for employment. In doing so, the Commission contributes to the elimination of employment barriers in the workplace.

Commission members

The Commission is led by a full-time Chief Commissioner as Chief Executive Officer, supported by a full-time Deputy Chief Commissioner and four part-time members.

Commission employees

The Secretary General serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Commission, guiding the daily operations of 179 employees.