Former CBC Host Travis Dhanraj Files Urgent Human Rights Complaint

UPDATE: Former CBC host Travis Dhanraj has filed an urgent human rights complaint against the public broadcaster, alleging serious claims of racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. This complaint, submitted to the Canadian Human Rights Commission, comes just months after Dhanraj’s resignation in July 2023 from his role as host of Canada Tonight.

Dhanraj, now 43 years old, asserts that CBC engaged in “performative diversity,” hiring him as a “token” individual while stifling his attempts to present diverse viewpoints, particularly from conservative guests. He alleges that the network’s management undermined his efforts to diversify the program’s editorial direction, even threatening disciplinary action when he invited the deputy leader of the Conservative Party to appear on the show.

In his complaint, Dhanraj recounts a troubling incident where he was blocked from inviting the Conservative housing critic after the network aired an interview with the federal housing minister. He claims that CBC pressured him to sign a non-disclosure agreement after he raised concerns about systemic inequities and tokenism, ultimately leading to his removal from his hosting duties and a reduction in pay.

Dhanraj’s situation escalated in April 2024, when he revealed on social media that CBC President Catherine Tait declined an invitation to appear on his show. Following this, he alleges that CBC initiated an investigation into him for possible policy violations, resulting in his temporary removal from the air. After taking medical leave in July 2023, he returned to find immediate retaliation against him.

The complaint details the severe impact on Dhanraj’s mental health and career, stating he is seeking compensation for wage loss and emotional suffering. He also calls for CBC to conduct an independent review of its workplace diversity and harassment policies, alongside the establishment of a whistleblower policy to protect employees who raise concerns.

In response to these allegations, CBC spokesperson Kerry Kelly stated that the broadcaster has not received independent confirmation of the complaint and strongly rejected Dhanraj’s claims. “We will vigorously defend against false claims, including allegations of political bias in guest selection,” Kelly said in an email. She added that Dhanraj remains a unionized employee currently on leave and that discussions regarding the processing of his resignation are ongoing.

Dhanraj’s lawyer, Kathryn Marshall, confirmed that damages are still being calculated and noted her client continues to receive compensation from CBC despite his resignation. A formal response from CBC is expected this fall, as the situation develops.

As the Canadian Human Rights Commission has yet to disclose whether it will launch an investigation, the urgency of this case highlights the ongoing discussions around workplace diversity and political representation in media.

Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds, impacting not only Dhanraj but potentially setting a precedent for how media organizations handle allegations of discrimination and workplace equity.