Letters and messages from the chief commissioner: January 26, 2008
Chief commissioner’s letter responding to comments about the Commission’s investigative process
This letter was submitted to the Calgary Herald as written below and published in the Herald in an edited version on January 26, 2008.
Re: “Too many rights make a wrong” by Janet Albrechtsen, The Herald, January 17.
Ms. Albrechtsen writes of her displeasure at how a “conservative commentator” was “hauled before Alberta’s Human Rights and Citizenship Commission for publishing the infamous Danish Mohammed cartoons two years ago.” I am concerned about the accuracy of her description of this event and worry that it might cause readers to become confused about the human rights complaint process established by law in Alberta.
No one is ever “hauled” before a Commission investigator. Individuals who have had a complaint made against them are invited to respond in person or in writing to the allegations against them. This opportunity is provided to ensure fairness in the process.
Human rights commissions are controlled by legislation that requires them to attempt to settle complaints of discrimination within their jurisdiction. If a complaint meets the criteria of the legislation, Commission staff must work to resolve it through conciliation and investigation. It is only through the examination of complaints, that the Commission meets the legal responsibility to provide diverging and divisive positions a forum for resolution. Complaints that cannot be resolved by Commission staff proceed to the public panel hearing stage where experienced commissioners make a decision.
In defense of those who have had complaints launched against them, Albrechtsen asks about “the little guys put through the human rights commission wringer.” What she conveniently ignores are all the other “little guys” who face prejudice, harassment, sexism and racism in their daily lives. These individuals have a lawful basis to seek out the protection provided by human rights legislation.
In reviewing her criticism of the Commission and its dedicated staff, I hope that readers recognize the role of the Commission to promote respect for the rights of others and the message that all Albertans have a duty to acknowledge the dignity of every person.
In working to resolve conflict and by supporting those who choose to speak out, human rights commissions serve as one of society’s most important avenues for respectful debate.
Charlach Mackintosh
Chief Commissioner
Alberta Human Rights and Citizenship Commission
Due to confidentiality concerns, the Commission cannot reply
to complaints of discrimination using the Internet.
Please contact the Commission by telephone or regular mail
if you have a specific complaint.
The Commission will make publications available in accessible multiple formats upon request. Multiple formats provide access for people with disabilities who do not read conventional print.
