The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) is exploring whether the definition of racial profiling should be broadened or altered. In opening the dialogue about the topic at a forum held in February, the OHRC is aiming to address the key areas where racial profiling most often takes place – policing, child welfare and retail.
The dialogue examined how racial profiling has historically been addressed in these areas and what changes are essential for improvement. Racial profiling of Indigenous populations was also identified as a critical area of concern.
The forum took place from Feb. 16 to 18 at Osgoode Hall Law School in collaboration with York University’s School of Public Policy and Administration, its Institute for Social Research and its Centre for Human Rights.
CMHA Ontario presented its paper on the intersection of mental health and racial profiling in the health and justice sectors. This was a welcome addition to the conversation, as mental health issues and the health sector have not received as much attention as other categories in racial profiling research and analysis. The OHRC commended CMHA Ontario for its contribution to the dialogue and reflected an interest among the participants to improve awareness about the topic.
For more information about the event, visit the OHRC website.