MPP Michelle Cooper’s Motion to Strengthen Hate Crime Prosecution Passes Unanimously

April 17, 2026

MPP Michelle Cooper’s Private Member’s Motion to establish a dedicated hate crime Crown prosecution unit has passed with unanimous support at Queen’s Park following debate on April 16.

The motion calls for the creation of a specialized Crown structure with dedicated prosecutors in each of Ontario’s six regions. These prosecutors will provide both pre- and post-charge advice to police, strengthen coordination between law enforcement and the justice system, and support the consistent and effective prosecution of hate crimes across the province.

The passage of this motion comes at a time when hate crimes are on the rise. According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes have more than doubled since 2018, with Ontario accounting for nearly half of all reported incidents nationwide.

“This is about protecting our communities, supporting victims, and ensuring that hate crimes are met with a strong and coordinated response,” said MPP Cooper.

MPP Cooper also expressed appreciation to colleagues across the Legislature for their unanimous support, as well as to police services and advocacy organizations across Ontario for their continued work in addressing hate and supporting safer communities.

This motion represents an important step forward in strengthening Ontario’s response to hate crimes and reinforcing a justice system that is clear, consistent, and effective.