📊

Week 8: Toronto Racial Profiling - website

Apr 1, 2025

Human Rights Commission Report on Racial Profiling by Toronto Police

Overview

  • The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) released a comprehensive report on racial profiling by Toronto police.
  • The report is described as the most detailed examination of police and race in Ontario.
  • The inquiry utilized extensive internal police data from 2010 to 2017.

Key Findings

  • Racial Profiling Practices:
    • The report examines stop-and-question practices, use of force, and arrests.
    • Focuses on offences like simple drug possession and compliance with bail conditions.
  • Toronto Police Culture:
    • Investigated police culture, training, policies, and accountability mechanisms.
    • Highlights existing racial disparities in policing practices.

Personal Experiences

  • Julius Haag:
    • Stopped by police for a "bicycle safety check" which turned into carding.
    • Describes the experience as offensive and dehumanizing.
  • Impact on Black Canadians:
    • The report aims to highlight the generational damage caused by racial profiling.

Institutional Responses

  • Toronto Police Reaction:
    • Police have "welcomed" the findings and have adopted new policies against carding.
    • The policies prohibit stopping individuals at random or based solely on race.
  • Data Accessibility:
    • Internal police data has rarely been made public in Canada, making this report significant.

Expert Opinions

  • Akwasi Owusu-Bempah:
    • Criticizes the lack of commitment from Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders to address racial discrimination.
    • Points out the "us versus them" mentality within police culture.

Recommendations

  • Oversight and Accountability:
    • Proposal for a new oversight body focused on racism.
    • Calls for sustained training and transparent accountability for police officers.
  • Long-term Efforts:
    • Emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts beyond the publication of reports.

Author

  • Nick Boisvert:
    • Multimedia journalist with experience in municipal politics.
    • Contact: [email protected]

Additional Resources