Item - 2024.GG18.34

The General Government Committee recommend that:

1. City Council receive the report (November 5, 2024) from the Chief People Officer for information.

In accordance with the City's Human Rights and Anti-Harassment / Discrimination Policy, this report provides an update on the data trends and information related to human rights inquiries and complaints involving the City in 2022 - 2023, through the City's internal Human Rights Office or external legal processes.

The report also identifies program initiatives and policy development undertaken by the Human Rights Office to prevent human rights breaches, thereby mitigating risks to the City while promoting equity and inclusion. In 2022 and 2023, the Human Rights Office received 1294 and 1190 inquiries respectively, constituting a 43 percent increase since 2019. While the Human Rights Office experienced a sharp rise in inquiries during the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for the Human Rights Office’s services by members of the Toronto Public Service and the public has steadily increased and has not reduced to pre-pandemic levels. The Human Rights Office staffing complement in 2022 - 2023 was 7 positions. The Human Rights Office faced significant challenges and increased demand leading to service reductions, including no new investigations during this period.  

Incidences of workplace harassment, incivility, and sexual harassment reported to the Human Rights Office have risen which may be partially connected to the resumption of in-person services and return to office environments, as well as greater awareness of the Human Rights Office. Additionally, the number of inquiries related to accommodation have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Over the last five years, the Human Rights Office has also seen a significant increase in race and related inquiries, as well as inquiries related to gender identity and sex.

The increases described in this report highlights the continued manifestation of inequities that Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, trans and gender diverse communities face in employment and service. It also reflects a greater awareness of rights and responsibilities towards human rights, inclusion, equity and reconciliation leading individuals to contact the Human Rights Office.