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The Canadian Human Rights Act was developed to ensure that all Canadians have an opportunity to be equal with other individuals and create the lives that they want. It allows for individuals to have their needs accommodated for as well as establish their obligations as members of the greater Canadian society. The idea is to prevent discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital or family status, disability, and convictions that were pardoned or suspended.  Here is a deeper look at the Canadian Human Rights Act and how it relates to employment.

  • Denial of goods and services. The Canadian Human Rights Act indicates that any behavior that denies services, goods, accommodations, or facilities which are available to the general public is prohibited by law.
  • Denial of business or residential occupancy. According to the Canadian Human Rights Act it is also a violation to deny anyone the use of a business facility or a residential accommodation. This applies to those renting office spaces as well as for apartments and homes.
  • In regards to employment. The category of employment is by no means exempt from the Human Rights act. Employers cannot refuse employment to any individual based on the prohibiting factors. Employers are also prohibited from publishing any reference or implication than any individual would be favored over another based on the regulations.
  • Providing equal wages. Employers cannot pay any members of their team who provide the same services different rates based on gender or other protected factors. To solve this problem an employer cannot reduce the wages of higher earning employees to close the gap.
  • Harassment, retaliation, and hate messages. All of the above are prohibited by the Canadian Human Rights Act. All individuals have the right not be made uncomfortable in work or public places based on the provisions of the act.
  • Pregnancy and childbirth. Individuals cannot be discriminated against based on pregnancy or childbirth. In the instance that this occurs it is considered discrimination based on gender.

Do you want to know more about how laws impact employment in Canada? Anserteam Workforce Solutions, leading staffing service in North America, can help you today!