The Daniel G. Hill Human Rights Awards celebrate individuals whose work reflects exceptional dedication, courage, and leadership in advancing human rights across Ontario. Previous award recipients embody the spirit of Dr. Hill’s legacy through lifelong commitment, service, and advocacy.
Distinguished Service Award
Lorin MacDonald (2024)
Lorin MacDonald is recognized for her outstanding contributions to advancing accessibility, disability rights, and inclusive policy development in Ontario. Her sustained commitment to removing systemic barriers and amplifying the voices of people with disabilities has had a transformative impact on communities across the province.
Rabia Khedr (2022)
Rabia Khedr is a long-time disability rights advocate whose work spans over three decades. A former OHRC Commissioner, she has founded and led organizations that advance disability justice, including DEEN Support Services and Disability Without Poverty. Through national advisory roles and community leadership, she champions the rights of people with disabilities, racialized communities, women, and seniors, and continues to drive change through policy and grassroots advocacy.
Young Leader Award
Stefan Enrique Joseph Kallikaden (2024)
Stefan Enrique Joseph Kallikaden is honoured for his leadership as a young advocate working to create meaningful change within his community. Through his activism, education efforts, and commitment to equity, he represents a new generation of human rights leaders shaping a more inclusive future.
Autumn Peltier (2022)
Autumn Peltier, an Anishinaabe-kwe from Wiikwemkoong First Nation, is a globally recognized water protector and Chief Water Commissioner for the Anishinabek Nation. She has advocated for clean drinking water since childhood, speaking at the United Nations and World Economic Forum, and continues to champion the rights of First Nations communities affected by boil-water advisories. Her film The Water Walker further amplifies her message and inspires young people worldwide.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Rosemary Sadlier (2024)
Rosemary Sadlier is renowned for her decades-long dedication to advancing Black history, racial justice, and human rights in Canada. A tireless educator, author, and advocate, she has profoundly influenced national dialogue on equity, recognition, and systemic change. Her lifelong commitment embodies the highest ideals of the Daniel G. Hill legacy.
Kim (Brooks) Bernhardt (2022)
Kim Bernhardt’s human rights leadership began alongside the early champions of the OHRC and continued through her work as a human rights officer, lawyer, and equity advocate. Her contributions include advancing anti‑racism organizational change within the Ontario Nurses Association, supporting landmark settlements, and helping shape key amendments to Ontario’s Human Rights Code. Her lifelong dedication has strengthened human rights protections across the province.
David Lepofsky (2022)
David Lepofsky, a lawyer and leading disability advocate, has advanced accessibility in Ontario through landmark legal victories, public service, teaching, and policy leadership. His advocacy helped secure the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and ensured accessible transit through precedent‑setting court decisions. As chair of the AODA Alliance and a respected educator, he continues to influence systemic change for people with disabilities across Canada.