British Columbia’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner
Vancouver, British Columbia
Ion was tasked with developing a brand for the newly established Crown Corporation, British Columbia’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner (BCOHRC). Working as an independent office of Legislature, the BCOHRC serves the community to shift laws, policies, practices and culture through education, research, advocacy, inquiry and monitoring. This organization needed to differentiate itself from its existing peer organizations like the BC Human Rights Tribunal and BC Human Rights Clinic.
The logo uses abstract elements that conjure ideas of humanity and safety – all within the context of BC’s beautiful, atmospheric vistas. People being the focus of their work, the brand photography expresses the likeness of those they seek to protect with respect, pride and authenticity. The high contrast black and white style unifies the imagery and is pleasing to those with vision disabilities. Typography is humanistic and accessible, while the colour palette adheres to WCAG guidelines. The resulting brand provides a thoughtful system that is accessible to people with disabilities and makes space for a safe and inclusive environment where all individuals can feel welcome. The brand’s soft and more artful approach visually separates itself from government run organizations, while championing human rights with dignity and compassion.