Toronto – The City of Toronto’s Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards return in 2023. Established in 1991, the awards recognize people and organizations that have made a difference by advancing equity and reconciliation, as well as working to eliminate discrimination and barriers to equality. Toronto residents may submit nominations from July 24 to September 12.
Recipients are selected by a panel of community members with relevant expertise and knowledge of the subject for each award category. The awards return in 2023 following a year-long pause, during which time the City reviewed and began to implement feedback from the public to ensure the awards remain relevant and meaningful to Toronto’s many diverse communities. Recipients and event details for a hybrid awards ceremony will be announced later this year.
The five award categories are:
- Mino Bimaadiziwin Award (Indigenous Award): This award translates to “living the good life” and is for those whose volunteer efforts have improved the well-being and advancement of the Indigenous community.
- Disability Access Award: For those who significantly contributed to improving access for those with disabilities.
- Constance E. Hamilton Award for Women’s Equality: Named for the first female member of Toronto City Council, the award was established in 1979 to recognize a resident whose actions have helped secure equitable treatment for women and gender non-conforming people in Toronto socially, economically or culturally. This award is selected by the female-identifying members of Toronto City Council.
- William P. Hubbard Race Relations Award: Named after the first person of African descent on Toronto’s City Council. Established in 1987, it is awarded to those who have contributed significantly to challenge racism and support a more harmonious city.
- Pride Award: Honours a person, group or non-profit organization that has made a significant or ongoing contribution to the well-being, advancement and inclusion of 2SLGBTQ+ communities in Toronto.
For more information about the Awards, to submit a nomination form and to view the application form, visit the City’s Access, Equity & Human Rights Awards webpage. “The Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards are a way the City can amplify and celebrate some of the admirable work done in Toronto communities to break down barriers to equality, improve accessibility and advance reconciliation. I encourage all Torontonians to nominate their community members who are making significant contributions towards making our city a better place.” – Mayor Olivia Chow