Canadian Human Rights Act (1977) R.S.C., 1985, c. H-6
The Canadian Human Rights Act is a federal law that protects Canadians from discrimination in areas under federal jurisdiction — including federally regulated workplaces, housing, and services. It establishes the right of every individual to equal opportunity without being hindered by discrimination based on 13 protected grounds:
- Race
- National or ethnic origin
- Colour
- Religion
- Age
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity or expression
- Marital status
- Family status
- Genetic characteristics
- Disability
- Criminal pardon status
The Act created two independent bodies to enforce these protections — the Canadian Human Rights Commission, which receives and investigates complaints, and the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal, which holds formal hearings and issues binding orders. Remedies can include compensation for lost wages, alternative costs, and up to $20,000 for pain and suffering — with an additional $20,000 penalty for willful or reckless discrimination.
Key limitation: The Act applies only to federally regulated entities. Provincial human rights codes govern all other employers and service providers.