Patricia DeGuire of St. Kitts to Receive Prestigious UWI Vice-Chancellor’s Award

Patricia DeGuire, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, is a testament to the power of resilience, unwavering commitment to justice, and the profound impact of mentorship. Her journey, originating from the island of St. Kitts, has led her to become a prominent figure in Canadian law and a champion for equality. DeGuire’s upcoming recognition at the 16th annual University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards with the Vice Chancellor’s Award serves as a testament to her exceptional contributions to law, mentorship, and public service. This award adds to a distinguished list of accolades she has received throughout her career, including the Black Law Student Association of Canada Lifetime Achievement Award, the Canadian Bar Association Touchstone Award, the Ontario Bar Association Distinguished Service Award, and the Law Society of Ontario’s Lincoln Alexander Award.

DeGuire’s career has been dedicated to advancing justice and equity within the Canadian legal landscape. As a constitutional law scholar, professional adjudicator, and mentor, she has served on provincial and federal tribunals for over 25 years. Her expertise and dedication to the rule of law were further acknowledged in 2023 with her appointment as King’s Counsel. She draws inspiration from legal luminaries such as the late Honourable Julius Alexander Isaac, the first Black Chief Justice of a Court, and the late Professor Peter Hogg, as well as her spouse, Paul Slansky. These individuals significantly influenced her passion for and commitment to upholding legal principles.

Beyond her legal work, DeGuire is a passionate advocate for equity and social justice. She has actively participated in and led numerous organizations focused on addressing issues of racism, particularly anti-Black racism, gender equality, and the well-being of youth. Her commitment extends beyond simply addressing systemic issues; she is deeply invested in fostering positive change and creating a more equitable society for future generations. She credits her upbringing, particularly the influence of her parents, for instilling in her a strong foundation of values, virtues, and emotional intelligence, which have guided her personal and professional life.

Mentorship is a cornerstone of DeGuire’s philosophy and practice. She actively mentors and coaches young people and adults across various fields, including law, medicine, and other professions. DeGuire believes in nurturing potential and empowering individuals to achieve their goals. Her guidance extends beyond professional development, encompassing values such as contentment, gratitude, and responsible resource management. She emphasizes the importance of embracing the journey to success, understanding that it is a marathon, not a sprint. She encourages others to pursue their chosen paths with purpose, passion, and practicality.

The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards not only celebrates DeGuire’s achievements but also honors other remarkable individuals and organizations making significant contributions to society. This year’s event recognizes individuals such as Dr. Jason Drew Harrow (Kardinal Offishall), a multi-platinum rapper, producer, and judge on Canada’s Got Talent, who receives the Luminary Award. The G. Raymond Chang Award is presented to philanthropists Myron and Berna Garron for their substantial contributions to pediatric health and Canadian healthcare institutions. The Chancellor’s Award goes to the Onyx Initiative, a non-profit founded by Wayne and Nigela Purboo, dedicated to promoting the recruitment and advancement of Black college and university students in corporate Canada. Alongside DeGuire, the Vice Chancellor’s Award also recognizes Leslie Woo, CEO of CivicAction and Founder of shebuildscities.org, and Dr. Mark Beckles, retired from RBC Royal Bank’s Community Investment Initiatives and President & CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada).

The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards provides a platform to acknowledge these exemplary individuals and organizations, inspiring others to make a difference in their communities. The event celebrates their achievements and highlights the importance of their work in creating a more just, equitable, and prosperous future. Patricia DeGuire’s recognition among these distinguished individuals underscores her significant and lasting impact on Canadian society, not only through her legal expertise and advocacy but also through her unwavering commitment to mentorship and her dedication to fostering positive change for future generations. Her journey exemplifies the power of combining professional excellence with a deep commitment to social justice and the unwavering belief in the transformative potential of mentorship.