Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards

As part of the City’s COVID-19 response, Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards are cancelled for 2020 and there will not be a nomination application process this year. Stay up-to-date on all changes to City services by visiting Covid19 – Changes to City Services.

While the awards may be cancelled, the City remains committed to equity and inclusion in recognizing the people, organizations and programs who work towards making Toronto a more inclusive city.

2019 Award Winners

  • Ernest W. Matton (Elder Little Brown Bear) — Individual Mino Bimaadiziwin Award (Indigenous Award)
  • Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre — Organization Mino Bimaadiziwin Award (Indigenous Award)
  • Liv Mendelsohn — Individual Disability Access Award
  • Surrey Place — Organization Disability Access Award
  • Elene Lam — Constance E. Hamilton Award for Women’s Equality
  • Adam Lake — Pride Award
  • Alexis Dawson — Individual William P. Hubbard Race Relations Award
  • Colour of Poverty – Colour of Change — Organization William P. Hubbard Race Relations Award

Visit the Award pages for more information about each winner.

About The Awards

The City’s Access, Equity and Human Rights (AEHR) Awards recognize people, organizations or programs that have created a more equitable city by addressing discrimination and working to eliminate barriers to equality. The Awards are community-driven – nominations come from Toronto residents and the selection panel is made up of community individuals with expertise and knowledge of issues pertinent to the award categories. Explore each award below.

Mino Bimaadiziwin (Indigenous Award)

Given to those whose volunteer efforts have improved the well-being and advancement of the Indigenous community.

Disability Access Award

Given to a person, group or organization that has made a significant contribution towards improving access for people with disabilities.

Constance E. Hamilton Award for Women's Equality

Recognizes a resident whose actions have helped secure the equitable treatment of women, either socially, economically or culturally.

Pride Award

Established to mark the decision to adopt a human rights policy to provide protection on the basis of sexual orientation.

William P. Hubbard Race Relations Award

Presented to a person or organization who has made a contribution toward a positive race relations climate.

Past Recipients

Find out who has received an Access, Equity and Human Rights Award.