Description
This Act affirms basic human rights and prohibits discrimination in various contexts in Alberta and establishes the Human Rights Commission to hear complaints of violations of those rights.
Updated April 1, 2023
Alberta Human Rights Act
Provincial Legislation that prohibits discrimination in everyday life — at work, in housing and in public services.
It applies to the private sector — not Government.
For Government actions:
- the Alberta Bill of Rights and
- the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
WHERE IT APPLIES
- Employment — job ads, hiring, pay, promotions and unions
- Housing — renting commercial or residential property
- Public services — any goods or services available to the public
PROTECTED GROUNDS Race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religious beliefs, gender, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, family status, source of income, physical or mental disability and sexual orientation.
YOUR RIGHTS
- Cannot be discriminated against in employment, housing or public services based on protected grounds
- Cannot be harassed based on protected grounds
- Employers and service providers must accommodate your needs to the point of undue hardship
THE LIMITS
Discrimination is permitted if it is a bona fide occupational requirement — meaning the restriction is genuinely necessary for the job.
IF YOUR RIGHTS ARE VIOLATED
File a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission within one year of the incident. The Commission investigates and can refer cases to a tribunal for a binding decision.
SOURCE Alberta Human Rights Commission — albertahumanrights.ab.ca