Ontario´s Human Rights Code was enacted in 1962. The Code protects people in Ontario against discrimination in employment, accommodation, goods, services and facilities, and membership in vocational associations and trade unions. Even though Ontario has led the way in Canada for human rights, many Ontarians don´t fully understand the breadth of their rights under the Code.
Our firm, as part of our commitment to the Human Rights Code, has created a package of services to evaluate, draft, and submit a claim to the Ontario Human Rights Commission on your behalf. The following information is general information only and should not be construed as comprehensive, complete, or as a substitute for legal advice. Please contact a legal professional for a consultation to be fully aware of your legal rights and obligations.
How Human Rights laws are enforced
Generally, discrimination and harassment are dealt with through the complaint mechanisms of the Human Rights Commission, or in the case of unionized employees, through the grievance arbitration process. Human rights laws prohibit discrimination and harassment based on “prohibited grounds.” There are 15 prohibited grounds:
Race
Ancestry
Ethnic origin
Citizenship
Religion or creed
Gender
Age
Handicap or Disability
Sexual orientation
Marital status
Family status; and in some cases
Criminal record and
Receipt of public assistance
The five main situations or social areas in which discrimination and harassment are prohibited are:
Employment
Accommodation
The provision of services, goods, and facilities
Contracts
Membership in a trade union or vocational association.