Approved by the Commission: July 8, 1997
(Please note: minor revisions were made in December 2009 to address legislative amendments resulting from the Human Rights Code Amendment Act, 2006, which came into effect on June 30, 2008.)
Available in other accessible formats on request
Introduction
The Code states that it is public policy in Ontario to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every person and to provide for equal rights and opportunities without discrimination. The provisions of the Code are aimed at creating a climate of understanding and mutual respect for the dignity and worth of each person so that each person feels a part of the community and feels able to contribute to the community.
This policy deals with scholarships or other forms of awards or grants that are available only on a limited basis to individuals who are identified by a ground set out in the Code. These grounds include race, sex, colour, religion, age and ethnic origin, to name a few. These types of scholarships or awards are called "exclusionary" because only certain individuals can apply for them, while others, who do not share the same characteristics, are excluded.
This policy provides information to potential applicants, sponsoring organizations and educational institutions about how the Code applies to exclusionary scholarships and awards. It should be noted that this policy applies whether the organization or body conferring the scholarship or award is public or private. It also applies to trusts and other entities that may be required to act on the instructions or directions of a third party, such as a trust settlor or other benefactor.