Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Job discrimination refers to the unfair treatment of an individual in the workplace based on certain protected characteristics, such as race, sex, age, religion, disability, and more. In Calgary, Canada, various laws exist to protect individuals from job discrimination and ensure equal treatment and opportunities for everyone in the workplace.
There are several situations in which seeking legal help becomes necessary if you believe you have experienced job discrimination:
1. Wrongful termination: If you have been fired from your job based on discriminatory reasons, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue legal action if necessary.
2. Harassment: If you are facing harassment in the workplace due to your protected characteristics, such as receiving offensive comments or being subjected to a hostile work environment, a lawyer can guide you on how to address the situation and protect your rights.
3. Unequal pay: If you suspect that you are being paid less than colleagues who perform similar work due to discrimination, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and potential remedies.
4. Denial of promotions or opportunities: If you believe you are being denied promotions, training opportunities, or other job-related benefits based on discrimination, a lawyer can assist you in assessing your rights and options.
5. Accommodation issues: If you require workplace accommodations due to a disability or religious beliefs and your employer fails to provide them, a lawyer can advise you on how to address the issue and ensure your rights are protected.
In Calgary, the primary legislation protecting individuals from job discrimination is the Alberta Human Rights Act. This act prohibits discrimination in areas of employment based on protected characteristics. It establishes the Alberta Human Rights Commission to investigate complaints and resolve disputes related to discrimination. Under this act, individuals can file complaints within one year of the alleged discriminatory incident.
Additionally, the Canadian Human Rights Act applies to federal employers and businesses in federally regulated industries, providing additional protections against discrimination.
Generally, you have one year from the date of the alleged discriminatory incident to file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission.
The duration of the complaint process can vary, but it typically takes several months to a year from the time of filing to resolution. Complex cases may take longer.
If your complaint is successful, remedies may include compensation for lost wages or damages, reinstatement, policy changes within the organization, or other appropriate measures to rectify the discrimination.
No, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing a discrimination complaint. If you experience retaliation, you may have additional grounds for legal action.
While evidence can strengthen your case, it is not always necessary to have direct evidence. Witnesses, documentation, emails, or other relevant information that supports your claim can also be important in establishing your case.
Here are some helpful resources related to job discrimination in Calgary:
If you believe you have experienced job discrimination in Calgary, consider taking the following steps:
