Ontario Human Rights Commission honours Dr. Carl James with Lifetime Achievement Award

Professor Carl James

September 28, 2026

Toronto – As the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) marks its 65th anniversary, it is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Daniel G. Hill Human Rights Awards, recognizing three leaders whose work is advancing human rights in Ontario.

The recipients of the 2026 Daniel G. Hill Human Rights Awards are:

Rana Espiritu Nasrazadani (Young Leader)**

Tonny Muzira (Distinguished Service) **

**Dr. Carl E. James (Lifetime Achievement) **

Established in 2022 to honour the legacy of Dr. Daniel G. Hill, the OHRC’s first Director and first Black chairperson, the awards recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to advancing, promoting and fostering a culture of human rights across Ontario.

“As we celebrate the OHRC’s 65th anniversary, it is especially meaningful to recognize individuals whose work continues to advance human rights in Ontario,” said Chief Commissioner Patricia DeGuire. “Rana Espiritu Nasrazadani, Tonny Muzira and Dr. Carl E. James have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing dignity, equity and inclusion. Their contributions reflect the values championed by Dr. Daniel G. Hill and continue to inspire positive change across our province.”

“As Ontario marks the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s 65th anniversary, we celebrate individuals whose leadership and service have helped advance human rights, inclusion and belonging in communities across our province”, said Her Honour the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. The recipients of the 2026 Daniel G. Hill Human Rights Awards exemplify a commitment to dignity, equity and respect that strengthens Ontario and inspires future generations.”

The honourees will join a host of distinguished guests, including community members, stakeholders, and government officials, for an evening of celebration on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

The OHRC congratulates candidates across all categories for their work in support of human rights. The OHRC received dozens of nominations recognizing individuals making meaningful contributions in communities across the province.

Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Carl E. James

Professor Carl James

Dr. Carl E. James holds the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community & Diaspora at York University, where he is a Distinguished Research Professor and one of Canada’s leading scholars on race, education and social equity.

Dr. James is an erudite advocate and community builder whom everyone holds in awe. For decades, his research, teaching and community engagement have advanced understanding of the experiences of Black and other racialized communities. His scholarship has informed public policy, shaped discussions on race and education, and contributed to efforts to address systemic racism and expand equitable opportunities.

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