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The Code states that every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to employment without discrimination or harassment because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, record of offences, marital status, family status or disability.

The right to “equal treatment with respect to employment” covers every aspect of the workplace environment and employment relationship, including job applications, recruitment, training, transfers, promotions, apprenticeship terms, dismissal and layoffs. It also covers rate of pay, overtime, hours of work, holidays, benefits, shift work, discipline and performance evaluations.

Relevant policies and guides:

Policy statement on Indigenous-specific hiring

Over the past several years, the OHRC has learned that there is significant demand from non-Indigenous employers for guidance on how to appropriately hire for Indigenous-specific positions, while meeting their obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code (Code). The need for this guidance has been exacerbated by widespread reports of alleged Indigenous identity fraud by non-Indigenous people. In response, Indigenous Peoples and organizations have called for action, and it has become essential that hiring practices and policies for Indigenous-specific positions include a process to confirm claims of Indigenous identity.
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