Geri Sanson 2014 Spirit of Barbra Schlifer Award Recipient
Founder and former Chair of the Association of Human Rights Lawyers, Geri Sanson’s exceptional work as a lawyer led directly to the establishment of the Domestic Violence Death Review Committee, which has increased women’s safety in relationships.
Geri also played a leadership role in advocating for much-needed reforms to the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Her pioneering work on the first inquest in Ontario that addressed sexual harassment as a workplace safety issue became the cornerstone of Ontario’s Bill C 168, which addresses the safety of women in their workplaces from sexual harassment and violence in their intimate relationships. As a result of her efforts, women have significantly enhanced protection in the workplace. Geri studied the Queen’s University Faculty of Law, receiving her call to the bar in 1990.
“Geri’s commitment to improving the safety of women is impressive – for over two decades she has advocated many pivotal cases before inquests, courts and tribunals, she has taught human rights courses at a number of institutions, published articles, spoken at conferences, and is a recognized community leader,” says Clinic Executive Director, Amanda Dale.