About OHREI
Our Mandate
OHREI advances the University’s commitment to building communities in which human rights are protected and the principles of equity and inclusion are integrated into all areas of academic, work and campus life.
We approach this work with care and compassion, recognizing the diverse and interconnected experiences and identities within our community. Our work spans a broad range of issues related to race, ethnicity and creed, including antisemitism and Islamophobia; sexual and gender diversity; disability and accessibility; and inclusive campus culture.
OHREI’s work is informed by institutional policies and aligned with key legislative and institutional frameworks including, but not limited to:
- Ontario Human Rights Code
- Strengthening Accountability and Student Supports Act, 2024 (Bill 166)
- Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2025 (AODA)
Strategic Pillars
Human Rights Complaints
Provide intake and resolution pathways for human rights concerns and complaints.
AODA and Institutional Accessibility
Lead implementation of the University’s Multi-Year Accessibility Plan; and to enable the University’s broader adherence to AODA.
Education & Community Engagement
Create opportunities for learning and capacity-building on human rights and EDI principles, tools, and strategies to advance and strengthen the efforts for institutional change.
Strategy Development
Support institutional planning, policy, resources and initiatives that advance equity, inclusion and accessibility across divisions, campuses and institutional priorities.
Early Intervention & Restoration
Promoting timely, restorative and community-focused approaches to addressing concerns and resolving conflict.
Institutional Initiatives & Systems Navigation
Coordinate, lead, and implement collaborative EDI-related projects in partnership with community members that lead to culture shifts, systems change, and sustainable EDI-related initiatives and programs across the University.
Communication, Reporting & Accountability
Facilitate transparency and raise awareness of human rights- and EDI-related information and programming; establish accountability and feedback mechanisms for human rights, AODA and EDI responsibilities within the University community.
Additional information and supports
The University of Toronto recognizes the importance of tracking and sharing efforts to engage equitable and inclusive systemic change.
Building on the work of existing faculty, librarians, staff, and students, our EDI leads bring specialized knowledge and experience to the Faculties, divisions, and campuses they support.
As people navigate their work and learning environments during times of global strife and crisis, they may require very different types of programs, services, supports, and resources.