Issues of Racism: Human Rights Code Violations

Question: What forms of conduct are considered racial discrimination under Ontario's laws?

Answer: Racial discrimination in Ontario is prohibited under the Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, covering areas such as services, housing, employment, contracts, and vocational associations. Examples include denying services based on race, refusing housing due to cultural differences, overlooking qualified job applicants for racial reasons, excluding businesses in contracts, and unjustly denying professional association memberships. For addressing such legal issues, Vescio Legal Services offers dedicated support and guidance. Contact us at (416) 400-8255 for assistance.

Understanding Racial Discrimination

Racial discrimination is a pressing social concern across various areas integral to daily life.  The Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19, prohibits racial discrimination in the specific areas of services, accommodations, employment, contractual relationships, and vocational associations.  Recognizing the scope of the rights of all persons to experience freedom from racial discrimination is essential for addressing and effectively navigating the applicable legal concerns.  Here are five examples of racial discrimination contrary to the Human Rights Code, as categorized under its protected areas:

Services

A Black customer at a restaurant is repeatedly ignored by staff while other patrons receive prompt service.  When the customer inquires, the customer is told that their presence is making other diners "uncomfortable".  This type of differential treatment amounts to racial discrimination within the provision of services.

Accommodations

A landlord refuses to rent an apartment to an Indigenous individual, citing concerns about "cultural differences" and a preference for tenants of a different racial background.  This denial constitutes as racial discrimination in housing accommodations.

Employment

A South Asian job applicant with superior qualifications is repeatedly overlooked for promotions at a company in favour of less qualified White employees.  The employer makes comments about wanting to maintain a "certain image" within leadership roles.  This discriminatory practice violates the employment protections prescribed by the Human Rights Code.

Contracts

A construction company refuses to enter into a contract with a Black-owned subcontracting business, stating that their "clients prefer to work with certain types of businesses".  This exclusion from contractual opportunities constitutes as racial discrimination.

Vocational Associations

A racialized accountant applies for membership within a professional legal association but is denied without a clear reason, despite meeting all eligibility requirements.  The association has a history of rejecting racialized members or subjecting them to more scrutiny.  This discriminatory barrier violates the protection against racial discrimination in vocational associations.

Each of the above scenarios reflects a prima facie case of racial discrimination under the Human Rights Code that may be subject to justification or remedial action through the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO).

Conclusion

Understanding racial discrimination within the framework of the Human Rights Code is pivotal for fostering safer and more equitable communities.  Informed decision-making and strategic insights in addressing discrimination are crucial steps towards enhanced equality and social justice.