CHIEF COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE

It is my honour to present the 2024–25 Annual Report of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.

This past year has been a time of meaningful progress as the Commission took significant steps to strengthen our foundation and better serve the people of Saskatchewan. Central to this work was a clear and intentional effort to reaffirm who we are as an organization, what we stand for, and what we are determined to achieve.

Our Board of Commissioners conducted a thoughtful and deliberate review of the Commission’s vision, mission, and values. This was more than a symbolic gesture. It was a genuine commitment to doing better.

The goal was to ensure that our work aligns with the rights and needs of everyone in the province and that we carry it out with clarity, purpose, and integrity. As part of this renewal, we introduced updated vision, mission, and value statements.

The Commission also renewed its focus on public education and stakeholder engagement. This year, we began planning a province-wide tour to connect directly with communities across Saskatchewan. Through presentations, meetings, and public forums, we aim to raise awareness of human rights, strengthen relationships, and respond to local concerns. This outreach is central to our long-term strategy to reduce the growing number of complaints — particularly in employment, which account for about 80% of our accepted complaints each year.

The rising volume of complaints underscores the urgency of our efforts. In 2024–25, the Commission received 609 complaints, the highest number in our 52-year history. Disability-related complaints remain the most common, making up over 60% of accepted cases. Race-based complaints have nearly doubled since 2020–21. And most notably, sex-based complaints – including those involving gender, sexual harassment, and pregnancy – more than doubled in the past year alone.

As the demand for our services grows, so does our resolve to uphold human rights, serve the public interest, and help build a stronger, more inclusive Saskatchewan.

On behalf of the Commission, I extend sincere thanks to our dedicated staff, our Board of Governors, and all those we serve for their continued trust and support.

Sincerely,

Treena L. Sikora, B.A. (Hons.), J.D.
Chief Commisssioner