About.

Whereas the recognition of the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world
​                  -Preamble to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,
​                    and to the Ontario Human Rights Code ​

About AHRL

The Association of Human Rights Lawyers (AHRL) is an Ontario network of lawyers, law students and legal workers who practice or are otherwise engaged in human rights law. Our members primarily represent Applicants whose human rights have been breached before the courts, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, and the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal.  

​AHRL meets monthly to share information; monitor human rights legal developments in Ontario, nationally, and internationally; and to coordinate law reform and other advocacy efforts.

AHRL also provides regular accredited professional development opportunities to its members. At each meeting, AHRL offers a presentation on a developing or cutting-edge human rights issue, as well as the opportunity to consult other members on difficult cases.
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​Interested in becoming a member? Membership is free; however, it is subject to approval by existing AHRL members. To request membership, please feel free to email AHRL with an expression of interest and a brief professional bio at membership@ahrl.ca​​​​

Please note that AHRL does NOT provide any direct legal services or referrals whatsoever. Please visit our Resources page if you are looking to get advice from a human rights lawyer.

Our Goals

  AHRL's goals are to work towards:
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• ​The recognition of the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all persons as recognized by the Ontario Human Rights Code; the Canadian Human Rights Act; the Charter of Rights and Freedoms; and the International Bill of  Human Rights*;

 

• ​A truly inclusive society based on the elimination of all forms of discrimination;

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• ​The realization and enhancement of human rights protections provincially, nationally, and internationally.

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​* The International Bill of Human Rights consists of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and its two Optional Protocols. ​