Intent vs. Impact in Human Rights Investigations

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Intent or motive to discriminate is not a necessary element in proving discrimination. Instead, the primary focus is on whether a person's actions or behaviour had a negative or discriminatory effect on the person who experienced the behaviour (Human Rights Legal Support Centre).

Many people wrongly think that discrimination does not exist if the impact was not intended or if other factors could explain a particular situation. Discrimination often takes place without any intent to do harm. The Ontario Human Rights Commission establishes that the lack of intention to discriminate is no defence to an allegation of discrimination. The focus is placed on the impact (the effect) of the questionable behaviour. Intent or motive to discriminate is not a necessary element for a finding of discrimination.

Familiarize yourself with Humber's Human Rights Policy and Complaints Resolution Procedures.

Thank you for your continued commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion at Humber.