The Law Foundation of Ontario has approved a 3-year grant of $4.5M for the Human Rights Legal Support Centre (HRLSC).
The HRLSC provides a range of legal services to people in Ontario who have experienced discrimination contrary to the Ontario Human Rights Code (Code). This discrimination could be based on a disability, race, sex, creed, ancestry, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, and other identified characteristics set out in the Code.
Made from the Foundation’s Strategic program, the grant will assist the HRLSC to advance critical new initiatives in support of its 5-year strategic plan. Notably, the grant will significantly enhance the HRLSC’s ability to build and deliver legal support services through its new Early Intervention and Mediation Services unit – a necessary resource in light of the recent introduction of mandatory mediation for all applications to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. The funding will also increase the HRLSC’s capacity to carry out proactive outreach strategies aimed at empowering equity-denied communities, add new technological tools to streamline and increase client access, and a new position to develop partnerships and diversify funding opportunities.
According to the 2024 Canadian Social Survey, 36.9% of Canadians reported experiencing discrimination or unfair treatment. The most commonly cited reasons for discrimination were race or skin colour (12.4%), physical appearance (11.1%), and ethnicity or culture (9.7%). Over the past 6 years, the HRLSC has seen a doubling of inquiries for its services.
“Sector building is a pillar of The Law Foundation of Ontario’s strategic plan,” says Lisa Cirillo, the Foundation’s CEO. “This granting aligns with our priority to collaborate and build knowledge to strengthen the access to justice sector. The understanding and protection of human rights are fundamental to access to justice. We’re pleased to play a part in the HRLSC’s expanded capacity to respond to system changes and to the increasing demand for human rights-focused legal supports.”
