The Ontario Human Rights Code protects people from discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and services. If you believe your rights have been violated, understanding the Code can help you take action.
This guide explains what the Ontario Human Rights Code covers, how it protects you, and what to do if you experience discrimination.
1. What Is the Ontario Human Rights Code?
The Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC) is a law that protects individuals from discrimination in key areas of daily life.
Protected areas include:
- Employment – Hiring, promotions, workplace policies.
- Housing – Renting, buying, and access to accommodations.
- Services – Healthcare, education, retail, and government services.
- Contracts – Business agreements and transactions.
- Memberships – Unions, professional organizations, and clubs.
If someone denies you opportunities or treats you unfairly based on a protected ground, they may be violating the Code.
For more details, check Ontario’s Human Rights Code.
2. What Grounds Are Protected Under the Code?
The Code prohibits discrimination based on specific protected grounds.
You cannot be discriminated against due to:Race, ethnicity, or skin colorAge (except for legal age restrictions)Sex, gender identity, or gender expressionDisability (including physical, mental, and learning disabilities)Religion or creedSexual orientationFamily or marital statusPregnancy or breastfeedingReceiving social assistanceCitizenship or place of originRecord of offences (in employment situations)
These protections apply in workplaces, rental housing, public spaces, and services.
For more, check Know Your Human Rights in Ontario.
3. Common Examples of Human Rights Violations
Examples of discrimination under the Code:Employment: A qualified candidate is denied a job because of their religion.Housing: A landlord refuses to rent to someone on social assistance.Services: A store refuses service to a person with a disability who uses a service animal.Harassment: A worker faces racial slurs or sexist comments at work.Retaliation: An employee is fired for filing a human rights complaint.
Discrimination does not have to be intentional to be illegal. If a policy or action has a negative impact on a protected group, it may still violate the Code.
For more, check Examples of Human Rights Cases.
4. What to Do If Your Human Rights Are Violated
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, you can take action through the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO).
Steps to file a human rights complaint:Step 1: Document the Incident
- Write down what happened, who was involved, and when it occurred.
- Keep emails, texts, or other evidence of discrimination.
Step 2: Try to Resolve the Issue Informally
- Speak to the employer, landlord, or service provider about the issue.
- If no resolution is reached, proceed with a formal complaint.
Step 3: File an Application with the HRTO
- Complete Form 1 – Application to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario.
- Submit the form online or by mail.
- The HRTO may offer mediation before a hearing.
Step 4: Attend the Hearing
- Present your evidence and testimony before the Tribunal.
- The HRTO may order compensation, policy changes, or other remedies.
You must file a complaint within 1 year of the discriminatory act.
For assistance, check How to File a Human Rights Complaint in Ontario.
5. Remedies for Human Rights Violations
If the HRTO finds that your rights were violated, they can order various remedies.
Possible outcomes include:Financial compensation for lost wages or emotional distress.Policy changes to prevent future discrimination.Mandatory training for employers or landlords.Reinstatement to a job or rental unit.
The HRTO’s goal is to restore fairness and prevent future discrimination.
For more, check What Happens After a Human Rights Complaint?.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights & Take Action
Key Takeaways:
- The Ontario Human Rights Code protects against discrimination in workplaces, housing, and services.
- You cannot be treated unfairly based on race, gender, disability, religion, or other protected grounds.
- If you experience discrimination, document it and consider filing a complaint with the HRTO.
- Remedies can include financial compensation, policy changes, and other corrective actions.
Need legal help with a human rights issue? Contact Carson Frankum for advice.
