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In Langley, Canada, sexual harassment, considered a form of discrimination, is prohibited by both Canadian federal law under the Human Rights Act and British Columbia's provincial law under the Human Rights Code. It encompasses any unwanted sexual conduct, comment, or display by a person who knows or ought to know that such behaviour is unwelcome. This includes but is not limited to inappropriate touching, sexual jokes, displaying sexually offensive material, or unwanted requests for sexual activities. Importantly, it is the perception of the recipient, not the intent of the actor, that determines whether certain behaviours qualify as sexual harassment.
If you have experienced sexual harassment, a lawyer can provide the necessary legal advice, guide you through your options, and represent your interests. Situations where you may need a lawyer could include dealing with ongoing harassment at your workplace, wanting to take legal action against a harasser, or needing assistance in filing a complaint with a Human Rights Tribunal. Even if you only suspect that you've been sexually harassed, a consultation with an attorney can clarify your situation.
Key aspects of local laws relevant to sexual harassment in Langley, under British Columbia's Human Rights Code, protect individuals from sexual harassment in their employment, in accommodation services, and in service provision situations. These laws provide distinct definitions for what constitutes a "person", "employer" and "employee", broadly interpreting these to cover most employment structures and housing scenarios. Additionally, they establish the BC Human Rights Tribunal as an adjudicative body that hears complaints about discriminatory practices such as sexual harassment.
Any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favours, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that interferes with an individual's work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment is considered sexual harassment.
Firstly, let the harasser know their behaviour is unwelcome and ask them to stop. If the harassment continues, keep a detailed note of each incident and report it to your employer or a person in authority. If the situation is not swiftly remedied, seek legal advice.
Yes, the Human Rights Code of BC protects people from sexual harassment not only at work but also in housing, service provision, and other public areas.
Yes, under BC law, complaints to the Human Rights Tribunal must be filed within a year of the last discriminatory act.
Depending on the individual case, victims might be entitled to: reinstatement to their job, a change in discriminatory practices, compensation for lost wages, financial awards for injury to dignity, and coverage of legal and tribunal costs.
You can contact the BC Human Rights Tribunal, the BC Federation of Labour, or the BC Human Rights Clinic for more information. The Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime and the VictimLinkBC are also available to provide support, resources, and referral services.
If you need legal assistance in a sexual harassment case, it's important to seek advice promptly. Begin by contacting a lawyer specialising in human rights or employment law. Document all incidents of harassment to support your case. If comfortable, report the harassment to your employer or appropriate authority. If the issue isn't resolved, filing a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal may be the next step.
