All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. (Article 1 of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights - UDHR)
Published by Paragon Legal Services 04th June, 2021
Ontario's Human Rights Code is a provincial law that gives everybody equal rights and opportunities without discrimination in specific social areas such as jobs, housing, services, facilities, and contracts or agreements.
The Code's goal is to prevent discrimination and harassment because of race, sex, disability, age and more. All other Ontario laws must agree with the Code. To find out how you can get justice for a breach of human rights, contact a qualified human rights professional.
The Ontario Human Rights Code provides protection from discrimination in five (5) main areas of our lives. It states that every person has a right to freedom from discrimination in the following areas, known as social areas:
- Services, goods and facilities
- Housing
- Contracts
- Employment
- Membership in vocational associations and trade unions
When you receive goods or services or use facilities, you have the right to be free from discrimination. This is applicable in most areas where you conduct business on a daily routine including governmental - municipal and provincial, public and private places, including stores, schools, and recreational facilities. If you have been discriminated against, you can contact Paragon Legal Services.
International law states that Canada must work towards making sure everyone has access to adequate and affordable housing. Everyone is entitled to equal housing without discrimination based on age, race, disability, sex and social or economic status.
In Ontario, this law applies to both tenants and landlords. This right also includes whether you are renting, buying or selling. For assistance as either a landlord or tenant, you should consult with a qualified legal professional.
Discrimination rights, however, does not apply if you are sharing housing with the owner or the owner's family. It also does not include residences which are male or female only accommodation.
Contracts are legal agreements which can be done verbally or in writing. Persons with any legal capacity can enter into a contract on equal terms without discrimination and should cover all steps including the offer, price, and a place for signatories and witnesses. Different contracts will be drafted to cover each party's specific terms and conditions.
Generally most human rights claims are generated from the workplace. Every person has the right to fair and equal treatment without discrimination or harassment. This covers employees, independent contractors and volunteers.
Applications against human rights can be filed against employers, contractors, boards of directors and even unions. It is the duty of both the unions and the employers to ensure the workplace is free of harassment and discrimination.
Persons with disabilities should be provided with the equipment which will allow them to perform their tasks like any other employee.
Equal treatment during your employ covers recruitment, interviews, training, transfers, promotions, apprenticeship and even dismissals or layoffs. Rates of pay include overtime, shift work, hours of work, holidays and benefits.
You have the right to join and be equally treated if you are a member of a union, professional or other vocational association. For more guidance on Human Rights Matters, contact Paragon Legal Services for help today.
