Sri-Guggan Scholarship Logo

Sri-Guggan Sri-Skanda-Rajah

A distinguished advocate and spokesperson in race relations for over 30 years. From serving as Vice-Chair of the Ontario Human Rights and Pay Equity Tribunals to championing refugee rights, Sri-Guggan has been a powerful voice for justice, equity, and inclusion.

Sri-Guggan Portrait

Life & Legacy

Sri-Guggan has dedicated his life to addressing systemic racism, empowering communities, and ensuring marginalized voices are heard. His early work with the Immigration Refugee Board of Canada raised Tamil refugee acceptance rates dramatically, paving the way for thousands to find safety and opportunity. His leadership continues to inspire change-makers worldwide.

Key Milestones

1980s

Appointed to Refugee Division, Immigration Refugee Board of Canada — raised Tamil refugee acceptance from 5% to 75%.

1990s

Served as Vice-Chair of Ontario Human Rights & Pay Equity Tribunals. Commissioner on systemic racism in justice system.

2007

Opposed reforms limiting access to Ontario Human Rights Commission — protecting vulnerable communities.

Awards & Recognitions

Dr. Wilson A. Head Award
1994
Urban Alliance On Race Relations (UARR)
J.S. Woodworth Award
2000
Ontario NDP
Volunteer Award
2000
Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Ontario
Lifetime Achievement Award
2012
Canadian Tamil Youth Development (CanTYD)
Lifetime Achievement Award
2014
Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI)
Honorary Life Time Achievement Award
?
Organization of Canadian Tamils with Disabilities (OCTD)
Lifetime Achievement Award
?
Tamil Eelam Society of Canada
Change maker
December 2022
Urban Alliance On Race Relations (UARR)

Stories from His Life

Sri-Guggan Sri-Skanda-Rajah, a Trailblazer Who Championed the Cause of Racial Equality and Human Rights

Sri-Guggan Sri-Skanda-Rajah, a Trailblazer Who Championed the Cause of Racial Equality and Human Rights

By Usha S Sri-Skanda-Rajah

Published on October 10, 2025
We called him ‘Ammanchin’ because he was our chinna amman

We called him ‘Ammanchin’ because he was our chinna amman

By Ima and Uma Moorthy,

Published on October 10, 2025