On November 25, 2009 seven residents and three organizations were recognized for their ongoing efforts to build a city where everyone can participate fully in the social, cultural, economic, recreational and political life of Toronto. Toronto recognizes the contributions to improving human rights made by residents or groups through the Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards.

The ceremony was held in Toronto City Council. In attendance was CityTV host Merrella Fernandez, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario David C. Onley, City of Toronto Mayor David Miller and members of Toronto City Council.

William P. Hubbard Award for Race Relations - Paul Nguyen, Founder of Jane-Finch.com

Paul has served as an inspirational role model to racialized and marginalized youth across Canada. In 2004, Paul created the inspirational website 'Jane-Finch.com', which provides a strong voice to residents within the community in response to racial discrimination in the broader community. The website is a virtual hub of community resources, history, art, youth forums and local news. The website has broken down myths and stereotypes about minority youth groups and was one of the first to pioneer the internet youth engagement model. Many other organizations have studied his website as a successful model for youth engagement — well before Facebook, YouTube and Twitter became the mainstream.

Paul's work has raised awareness about youth issues and poverty, as well as broken down racial stereotypes in vulnerable communities. He has given innumerable lectures, engaged the community and used the power of the internet and social media to create a bridge where racialized communities can connect with the outside world and vice versa.

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