Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA)

• July 14, 1977 – The CHRA is enacted.
• June 1, 2009 – Amendments clarify its application, including legislative consolidation provisions.
• June 18, 2017 – Gender identity and expression added as protected grounds.
• August 19, 2024 – Most recent amendments updated enforcement mechanisms.

• Federal agencies and departments (e.g., Canada Post, Service Canada).
• Federally regulated industries, including:
  • Banking institutions.
  • Telecommunications companies.
  • Interprovincial transportation services.
  • Airlines.
• Crown corporations and federal workplaces.

• Provincial and municipal governments, private-sector businesses under provincial law.
• Organizations may claim exemptions if accommodations impose an "undue hardship" based on cost, safety, or operational concerns.
• Special programs designed to assist disadvantaged groups are not considered discriminatory.

• Provide equal employment opportunities without discrimination.
• Ensure workplaces are free from harassment and retaliation.
• Implement fair hiring and promotion policies.
• Offer reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
• Prohibit discriminatory practices in service delivery.

• Ensure digital services are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• Follow Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for online services.
• Provide alternative text for images and multimedia content.
• Maintain accessible online forms and communication methods.

• Employers must develop and maintain employment equity programs.
• Businesses must prevent discriminatory job advertisements.
• Transparency in pay equity must be maintained.

• Right to equal access to employment and services.
• Right to file a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission.
• Right to compensation if discrimination is proven.

• Regulatory Authority: The Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) and Canadian Human Rights Tribunal oversee compliance.
• Penalties:
  • Orders to cease discriminatory practices.
  • Mandatory corrective measures.
  • Compensation up to $20,000 CAD for damages and up to $20,000 CAD for reckless or willful violations.

Tribunal rulings can be enforced through the Federal Court.