The Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC), tasked with addressing racism and discrimination within federal institutions, faces a potential downgrade due to allegations of internal racism and unfair dismissal of race-based complaints.

A recent independent review by the Justice Minister revealed concerns about the CHRC's handling of complaints and the appointment of its new chief.

Key Issues:

• Internal Racism: The CHRC itself allegedly discriminated against its Black and racialized employees.
• Disproportionate Dismissal: The Commission seems to dismiss complaints based on race, color, or national/ethnic origin at a higher rate than other types of complaints.
• Failed Appointment: Newly appointed CHRC chief Birju Dattani resigned before taking office due to findings from the independent review.

Global Review:

• The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) is reviewing the CHRC's accreditation based on the Paris Principles, the minimum standards for human rights institutions.
• Losing "A" Status: If the CHRC fails to meet these standards, it could lose its top-tier "A" status, potentially impacting its international influence and ability to participate in bodies like the UN Human Rights Council.
• Initiating Review: The review was triggered by a coalition of civil society groups concerned about racial discrimination within the CHRC and its effectiveness in addressing complaints against federal entities.

Systemic Racism Beyond CHRC:

• Pervasive Discrimination: A recent report reveals a culture of racial stereotyping, microaggressions, and verbal abuse at the Privy Council Office (PCO), the highest-level bureaucratic office in Canada.
• Black Employees Targeted: Black employees reported managers using racial slurs and a lack of accountability for such behavior.
• Limited Mobility: The report found significant barriers to meaningful representation and inclusion for Black, Indigenous, and racialized employees at the PCO.

Expert Opinions:

• Wendell Nii Laryea Adjetey: A professor of Black history argues that acknowledging systemic racism and its impact on Black Canadians is crucial for addressing the issue.
• Government Response: The Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities announced a $110.4 million investment in the government's anti-racism and discrimination strategy.

Future of Anti-Racism Efforts:

• Ongoing Review: The GANHRI review will examine the CHRC's performance from 2016 to 2022, with a decision expected in the coming months.
• Limited Change Expected: While the CHRC's "A" status may not be downgraded, the review is a crucial step towards addressing systemic racism within the human rights institution itself.
• Calls for Stronger Measures: Some experts advocate for more severe measures like a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address historical and ongoing injustices faced by Black Canadians.