Discrimination

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights declares that all persons shall be treated equally and fairly without discrimination (Canadian Human Rights Commission).

Discrimination is any act, thought, motivation, distinction, exclusion, statement, restriction or preference based on another person’s gender, race, colour, descent, sexual preference, nationality, age, ability (both physical and mental), social class, origins, etc.

Discrimination can occur in everyday situations. Some examples are when a person makes a discriminatory remark, when people are treated poorly because of their age or when a person is denied services based on their ethnicity.

Facts

“Race” is a made up term. Are we not all part of the human race? People come from different cultures and live different lifestyles, but these differences should be embraced.
The average earnings/salary that a woman makes is still much lower than what a man makes (Statistics Canada).

Laws

The Canadian Human Rights Act (passed in 1977) ensures equality of opportunity and freedom from discrimination in any form, time or place.

Discrimination can create barriers for people, but it can also lead people to commit hate crimes. A hate crime is when a person targets a victim based on their sex, origin, sexual orientation, disability and other unique qualities. Section 718.2 of the Criminal Code allows a judge to impose longer sentences for crimes motivated by hate (Criminal Code).

How can you stop discrimination?

Some acts of discrimination can be easily spotted and can be stopped, while others cannot. If you can do it safely, defend someone if he or she is discriminated against.
Before you say or do something, make an effort to think about if it is discriminatory or not. If you feel safe to do so, encourage others to do the same.
Educate yourself and others; get to know different people and accept them for who they are and the choices they make.
Don’t speak negatively about others; everyone is unique in their own way.
Tell friends that discriminatory jokes are not acceptable.
Take a personal stand and vow to never engage in discriminatory behaviour.

What can you do if you are being discriminated against?

Know your rights – check the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Canadian Human Rights Act and your school/work/community center policies on discrimination.
Remember that although it is a terrible situation, you are not alone. Be strong and confident.
Tell someone you trust and can confide in for help and advice.
Take steps to file claims or formal complaints about incidents of discrimination (to your principal, the police etc.).
If you are continually harassed and/or feel as though you might be in danger, talk to your local police service.

It takes more than one person to stop discrimination

Create a petition or pledge to end discrimination in your school or community.
Start a poster campaign: show off your artistic skills while fighting discrimination.
Write a letter to your school board, Member of Parliament or a community paper.
Most importantly, talk about it. Make this a hot topic in your world.

Links

Canadian Human Rights Commission
The Canadian Human Rights Act
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Employment Equity Act