What Are Workplace Human Rights Violations
Workplace human rights violations occur when employees experience discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, disability, or age. In Ontario, the Ontario Human Rights Code safeguards employees’ rights by prohibiting such conduct in the workplace.
Understanding your rights and knowing how to address workplace human rights violations is crucial for maintaining a fair and respectful work environment.
Understanding the Ontario Human Rights Code
The Ontario Human Rights Code protects individuals from discrimination in various areas, including:
- Employment – Ensures fair treatment in hiring, promotions, terminations, and workplace policies.
- Contracts – Prevents unfair contract terms that discriminate against certain groups.
- Housing and Services – Guarantees equal access to public spaces, services, and accommodations.
- Trade and Vocational Services – Protects rights within unions and professional associations.
If you believe your workplace rights have been violated, speaking with a human rights lawyer can help you explore your legal options.
As Christopher Achkar, employment lawyer and founder of Achkar Law, explains:
“If you’ve been treated unfairly because of your race, gender, disability, or other protected grounds, your human rights may have been violated. At Achkar Law, we help employees understand their rights and take action — speak to a lawyer before deciding what to do next.”
Common Workplace Human Rights Violations in Ontario
1. Workplace Discrimination
Discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee unfairly based on a protected ground under the Ontario
Human Rights Code, such as:
- Age – Older employees may be denied promotions or pressured to retire.
- Race, Religion, or Ethnicity – Employees may face biased treatment or exclusion based on cultural background.
- Disability – Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for employees with physical or mental disabilities unless it causes undue hardship.
- Gender and Sexual Harassment – Unfair treatment or harassment due to gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation is prohibited.
Employers must ensure that workplace policies and practices comply with human rights laws.
2. Workplace Harassment
Harassment involves unwelcome conduct, such as offensive remarks, bullying, or inappropriate jokes. In Ontario, workplace harassment is prohibited under both the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
Examples of workplace harassment include:
- Sexual harassment – Unwanted advances, comments, or inappropriate jokes.
- Racial harassment – Slurs, stereotypes, or exclusion based on race or ethnicity.
- Workplace bullying – Persistent mistreatment that creates a toxic work environment.
Employers have a legal duty to prevent and address workplace harassment through proper policies and investigations.
3. Failure to Provide Reasonable Accommodation
Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, employers must accommodate employees with disabilities, religious practices, or family responsibilities unless it causes undue hardship.
Examples of reasonable accommodations include:
- Modified work duties or flexible hours for employees with disabilities.
- Prayer breaks or religious accommodations for employees based on their faith.
- Parental leave and caregiving accommodations to support employees with family obligations.
Employers who fail to provide reasonable accommodations may violate human rights laws.
What to Do If You Experience a Workplace Human Rights Violation
If you believe your human rights have been violated at work, consider the following steps:
- Document the Violation – Keep records of incidents, including emails, messages, and witness statements.
- Report the Issue – Notify your employer, HR department, or union about the situation.
- File a Human Rights Complaint – If the issue is unresolved, you can file a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO).
- Seek Legal Advice – An employment lawyer can assess your case and help you pursue legal remedies.
How a Human Rights Lawyer Can Help
A human rights lawyer can help employees:
- Understand their rights under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
- File a human rights complaint with the HRTO.
- Negotiate a fair resolution with their employer.
- Represent them in legal proceedings if necessary.
Protect Your Workplace Rights – Contact Achkar Law
If you are facing discrimination, harassment, or other workplace human rights violations, Achkar Law’s experienced employment lawyers can provide legal guidance and representation.
Take action to protect your rights—contact Achkar Law today!
Phone Toll-free: 1-800-771-7882 | Email: [email protected]
The article in this client update provides general information and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. This publication is copyrighted by Achkar Law Professional Corporation and may not be photocopied or reproduced in any form, in whole or in part, without the express permission of Achkar Law Professional Corporation. ©
Workplace Law Topics: Human Rights, Workplace Harassment, Workplace Accommodations, Employment Dispute and Litigation