A transgender individual residing in St. Catharines has lodged a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) after recording police officers requesting her outdated name. Sabrina Hill was shooting a video at the St. Catharines bus terminal on December 17, 2023, when Niagara regional police officers engaged her in a dialogue. During the interaction, one officer, later identified as Constable Ashley Del Duca, inquired about her “deadname.”
In response to the officer’s question, Hill sought clarification on the term “deadname.” The officer explained that she was attempting to be respectful and proceeded to ask for Hill’s preferred pronouns. Hill claimed that the officers instructed her to cease filming and disclose her name, which she declined, citing a lack of necessity and trust in law enforcement.
Hill expressed her belief that the officer’s request for her “deadname” was intended to expose her transgender identity and belittle her. She emphasized that a deadname signifies more than a former name, as it can lead to intentional misgendering, discrimination, and erasure of one’s identity.
The Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) and Constable Del Duca have responded to the tribunal, defending the officer’s actions. Hill, a licensed paralegal, expressed concerns about her ability to compete with experienced legal counsels representing the officer.
Hill, who filed her human rights complaint on January 15, 2024, criticized the tribunal process, alleging bias against complainants. She highlighted the challenges faced in securing legal representation and the need for improved accessibility to legal assistance for marginalized individuals.
The term “deadname” was deemed distressing for transgender individuals by Colleen Elizabeth McTeague, a transgender woman and support group facilitator. Hill is advocating for enhanced police training to prevent mistreatment of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and is seeking $30,546 in compensation for humiliation and lost wages.
The police have requested dismissal of the case, stating that the officer was using the term “deadname” based on previous interactions with transgender youth. They argued that Hill’s online posts and derogatory remarks towards the officer negate claims of humiliation. The police maintain that adequate training is provided to handle interactions with transgender individuals.
Veronica Spada from Tribunals Ontario emphasized the user-friendly nature of the human rights process, providing resources and support to unrepresented applicants. Johanna Macdonald highlighted the emotional challenges faced by victims representing themselves in legal cases, emphasizing the need for legal aid and increased support for marginalized communities in accessing justice.