Keynote Session

Wednesday, May 7, 2025
10:00 am -11:00 am

Human Rights vs Human Wants

In this talk, Celia Chandler will examine the difference between a right protected by Ontario's Human Rights Code and tenants' and members' personal preferences or, as Celia calls them, Human Wants. Honouring the rights equity deserving people have fought for is an important part of our legal structure, making people's misuse of the language of human rights all the more offensive.  Celia gained her experience with this distinction during her 17 years as a lawyer serving housing providers in southern Ontario.

Celia Chandler

Deputy Executive Director
Co-operative Housing Federation of Toronto

Celia Chandler brings nearly two decades of experience in the affordable housing sector, combining her legal expertise with a deep understanding of co-operative housing and non-profit challenges. Currently the Deputy Executive Director of the Co-operative Housing Federation of Toronto (CHFT), Celia is known for her engaging and accessible approach to education, making even the most complex topics easy to understand.

Before joining CHFT, Celia spent 17 years as a lawyer at Iler Campbell, where she specialized in supporting co-op housing clients. Her practical, client-focused approach, grounded in her appreciation for the co-op housing model and its community-driven ethos,helped housing providers navigate legal challenges within tight budgets and unique operational constraints.

Celia’s career began in non-profit management, where she firsthand experienced the demands placed on overworked staff, volunteer boards, and limited resources. This background informs her ability to connect with housing organizations and providers, offering insights that are both pragmatic and empathetic. With her combination of legal knowledge, housing expertise, and exceptional presentation skills, Celia is a trusted voice in the affordable housing community and a sought-after educator.