MPP Michelle Cooper Introduces Motion to Strengthen Hate Crime Prosecution at Queen’s Park | April 16, 2026

April 17, 2026

On April 16, I rose in the Ontario Legislature to read and debate my Private Member’s Motion aimed at strengthening our province’s response to hate crimes.

Through this motion, I am proposing the establishment of a dedicated hate crime Crown prosecution unit, with specialized prosecutors in each of Ontario’s six regions. These prosecutors would provide both pre- and post-charge advice to police, strengthen coordination between law enforcement and the justice system, and support a more consistent and informed approach to prosecuting hate crimes.

Hate crimes are rising across Canada, with Ontario accounting for a significant share of reported incidents. Behind these numbers are real people—targeted because of who they are.

This is about protecting our communities, supporting victims, and ensuring that hate crimes are met with a clear and effective response across Ontario.