The Prince Edward Island Human Rights Commission administers and enforces the Prince Edward Island Human Rights Act. The Act establishes a complaint process under which the Commission has the authority to receive, investigate, attempt to settle and make rulings on complaints. The Commission also develops programs of public information and education about human rights through seminars, publications, responses to general inquiries and a resource centre. If you would like a member of the Commission to give an education presentation to your group, please contact us. The Commission also advises the government on human rights issues.

The Prince Edward Island Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in certain areas on the basis of certain personal characteristics or "grounds". Discrimination is the unequal, stereotypical and prejudicial treatment of persons. The Act became law on September 11, 1976.

The Act provides for the appointment of at least three but not more than nine Commissioners, one of whom is designated as Chairperson. The Commissioners perform administrative duties, and one or more Commissioners form a human rights panel to adjudicate complaints.