Patricia DeGuire
Patricia DeGuire, the Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, is a distinguished Black woman dedicated to public service, mentoring, coaching, and legal education. Her multifaceted expertise as a professional adjudicator, arbitrator, mediator, and coach is complemented by her scholarly achievements, holding a Fellow of Chartered Insurance Professionals of Canada – Claims Major, and co-authoring and co-editing the first Canadian Insurance Dictionary. Patricia is a constitutional law scholar, and an avid mentor and coach for young people and adults in the legal, medical, and other professions. Patricia is the recipient of many awards for her mentorship and public service.
Patricia's illustrious career includes serving as a Deputy Judge with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, SCC Division, and over 25 years of service on provincial and federal tribunals. In 2023, she received the designation of Kings Counsel (K.C.).
She is a trailblazer in fostering inclusivity, co-founding the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers and the Black Law Students' Association of Canada. Patricia's global influence extends to lecturing at international law forums and advocating for the educational empowerment of marginalized youths. She spearheaded the Julius Alexander Isaac Scholarship and the Juanita Westmoreland Scholarships at Windsor Law Scholarships, and an active supporter of the Julius Alexander Diversity Moot.
Patricia's numerous accolades, including the prestigious BLSA Canada 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award and the esteemed CBA 2020 Touchstone Award, underscore her transformative impact within the legal community. Recognized for her unwavering commitment to justice, she has been honoured with awards such as the 2006 Law Society of Ontario (then LSUC) Lincoln Alexander Award, Legal Aid Ontario's 2007 GEM Award, and the OBA Distinguished Service Award.
An emblem of inspiration, Patricia DeGuire epitomizes resilience and an unyielding dedication to a more just and equitable society. Through her exemplary leadership, steadfast advocacy, and mentorship, she continues to shape a brighter future for generations to come.