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Christian Horizons Decision

May 19, 2010

The decision in Christian Horizons v. Heintz was released on Friday, May 14, 2010.

The decision allowed the appeal of Christian Horizons, in part.  However, it is important to note that any of the three parties involved, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, Connie Heintz, or Christian Horizons are entitled to initiate an appeal within 15 days.  None of the intervenors, such as CCCC, have appeal rights.

Following the expiry of the appeal period, CCCC members will be advised of CCCC’s further participation in this matter, if any, along with a complete analysis of the decision and the impact on Christian charities.

Key Findings in the Decision

  • Christian Horizons is a religious organization that is “primarily engaged in serving the interests” of Christians (its founders, members and employees).  This means that the decision does not prohibit Christian Horizons from having employees sign a Doctrinal Statement.  This is a significant affirmation of the right of people to form charities to do good works from a faith perspective.
  • Christian Horizons did not have bona fide reasons for requiring support workers, like Connie Heintz, to adopt a Lifestyle and Morality Statement prohibiting same-sex relationships.  This finding will require analysis to determine its practical effects and what they mean to faith-based charities.
  • Christian Horizons is not required to review all of its employment policies in consultation with the Ontario Human Rights Commission and the complainant, and is not required to report to the Human Rights Tribunal.   This finding is significant in that it overturns some of the more far-reaching directives of the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal.