Federal Court Justice and former Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission Deputy Chief Commissioner, Paul Favel, Q.C., was in the news recently discussing the need for more diversity in the Canadian judicial system.

In a story published June 30 by CBC, Justice Favel said the Canadian judiciary is slowly growing more diverse, but believes the country requires a judicial system that better reflects the racial and cultural diversity of the nation.

Justice Favel noted the need for patience, while urging the federal government to pursue “aggressive timelines” to make the judicial system more diverse.

Chief Commissioner David Arnot supports the former Deputy Commissioner’s sentiments.

“Meaningful and effective change doesn’t happen overnight,” said Chief Commissioner Arnot, “but it is imperative that change does occur. The more diverse and representative the Canadian judiciary becomes, the better it will be able to serve the country and its citizens. The Commission commends Paul’s stance on this topic. Being from Saskatchewan, he understands that our provincial motto – from many peoples, strength – is more than just a saying. It has substance. Institutions, organizations and communities throughout the country are stronger when they embrace diversity and equity.”

Justice Favel was appointed to the Federal Court in 2017. He became only the second Indigenous judge on the Federal Court in Canadian history.

Since 2016, of the 239 judges appointed by the Government of Canada:

• 3.4% identify as Indigenous
• 8.4% identify as visible minorities
• 1.2% identify as people with disabilities
• 4.2% identify as LGBTQ2
• 54.4% identify as women