The Human Rights Committee advises the District Executive on human rights policies and practices, takes initiatives in the area of equity and human rights, and provides a forum for members to engage with community groups already active in human rights work internationally and locally. Each year, the committee is responsible for handing out two awards: The Camille Natale Award (a student human rights award) and the Human Rights Award of Merit (a staff human rights award). Stay tuned for meeting dates and award nomination deadline.
Terms of Reference from our District Constitution:
4.2.5.1 Terms of Reference:
4.2.5.1.1 To recommend to the District Executive on a regular basis, goals to be
achieved and policies and actions to be implemented in order to safeguard
human rights.
4.2.5.1.2 To recommend to the District Executive policies and actions that will ensure
equity and inclusion for all individuals in the workplace and all members of
OSSTF.
4.2.5.1.3 To establish links with other District Standing Committees to achieve common
goals.
4.2.5.1.4 To advocate for and allow for the creation of sub-committees to promote groups
identified within the Ontario Human Rights Code.
4.2.5.1.5 To assist the District Executive in the implementation of human rights and
equity programs, actions and policies.
4.2.5.1.6 To assist the District Executive in keeping the membership informed of events
and issues pertaining to human rights and equity issues.
4.2.5.1.7 To assist the District Executive and/or the Communications/Excellence in
Education Committee in the communication of OSSTF Toronto human rights
and equity concerns and policies to the community at large.
4.2.5.1.8 To establish links with other OSSTF Human Rights Committees.
4.2.5.1.9 To establish links with community groups having common concerns.
4.2.5.1.10 To recommend to the District Executive, programs to realize equity for and
inclusion in the full participation in OSSTF of, disadvantaged minority groups
and to assist the District Executive in the implementation of such programs.
4.2.5.1.11 To advise Bargaining Units, through the District Executive, on policies and
contractual language which may be needed to improve employment equity.
4.2.5.1.12 To implement human rights and equity education with the approval of the District
Executive.
4.2.5.1.13 To provide a forum for members to discuss human rights and equity issues.
4.2.5.1.14 To work in conjunction with the Pride Committee and Status of Women
Committee to emphasize the intersections of identity and equity issues and to
support members in negotiating conflicting rights
Our meeting dates for the year are: Oct. 22, 2024, Nov. 21, 2024, Dec. 17, 2024, Jan. 30, 2025, March 4, 2025, April 8, 2025, May 13, 2025, June 17, 2024. All meetings take place at 4:30-6pm, 1482 Bathurst St., 4th floor.
Executive Liason: Jason Kunin