How do I make a claim to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario?

If an employer, landlord, union representative, or service provider discriminates against you in a way that goes against Ontario's human rights laws, you might be able to make a claim against them. You can make your claim with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO).

You might also have other options, like suing them in court. You should get legal advice before you decide what to do.

What are my options if I was discriminated against?

CLEO

Have you been discriminated against and want to take legal action? Select the right tool to learn about your options.

Discrimination that is against human rights laws

Ontario's Human Rights Code says that everyone has the right to be treated equally and not be discriminated against:

• at work
• in housing
• in a union or professional group
• by a service provider, like a store employee, restaurant, or school

Employers, landlords, union representatives, and service providers aren't allowed to discriminate for reasons that are against human rights laws.

This means that, in most cases, you cannot be treated differently based on personal characteristics listed in the Human Rights Code. There are 17 protected personal characteristicsthat relate to your:

• race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, and ethnic origin
• citizenship
• religion
• sex, gender, gender identity, and gender expression
• sexual orientation
• family and marital status
• disability
• age

Time limits

The deadline to apply to the HRTO is one year from the date you were discriminated against.

It is very important that you file your application with the HRTO within the one-year period. If you miss the deadline, you can still apply, but you must explain why you're applying late. It is very rare for the HRTO to accept a late application.