Canada is a multi-cultural country. There may be only two official languages, but dozens of languages are heard in homes, workplaces, schools and the street. We share and experience the food, music, art and values that are brought here by every newcomer. We also recognize that people's uniqueness extends beyond their ethnicity, culture and race. Our laws reflect the diverse richness in our country.
Like employment standards, both the federal and provincial governments have legislation to protect individual rights and freedoms. For all of Canada, the legislation is called The Canadian Human Rights Act. In Ontario, the legislation is called The Human Rights Code. Other provinces have similar pieces of legislation.
Do other countries have similar legislation to protect people? Why do you think Canada and its provinces have such strong protection in its laws? Have you heard the expression "human rights"?
What does prohibited mean? What do you think discrimination means? Think about your life. Have you ever faced discrimination? What did you experience? What kind of emotions did you experience? Was it a positive or a negative experience?
Hmmmm...
Civilization is to be judged by its treatment of minorities.
Mahatma Gandhi
In Canadian workplaces, the federal act or provincial legislation protects employees from discrimination. There is a system in place for complaints. There are also rules about the kinds of questions that a company can ask in an interview or on an application.