How does the law protect trans and gender-diverse workers?
Use this tool to compare your legal options if you've been discriminated against.
Ontario's human rights laws say that everyone has the right to be treated equally and not be discriminated against at work.
This means that your employer must treat you fairly and not discriminate against you because of:
- your , or
- how you express your gender.
For example, your employer cannot discriminate against you if:
- your gender is different than the sex you were assigned at birth, or
- the way you express your gender does not match what your employer expects.
Ontario’s Human Rights Code
Most employers in Ontario must follow Ontario’s Human Rights Code. The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario deals with complaints against these employers.
The information in this question is about Ontario’s Human Rights Code.
Canadian Human Rights Act
Employers who are covered by the Canada Labour Code must follow the Canadian Human Rights Act. This includes banks, airlines, some trucking businesses, and broadcasting. The Government of Canada has a complete list.
The Canadian Human Rights Act says that employers cannot discriminate against someone because of their gender identity or gender expression.
The Canadian Human Rights Commission deals with complaints against these employers.