Workplace Discrimination in British Columbia
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Canadian federal statutes and official sources. Provincial information reflects each province's own legislation and court rulings. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
It is illegal for a federally regulated employer to discriminate against you based on 13 protected grounds:
- Race, national or ethnic origin, colour
- Religion, age, sex
- Sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
- Marital status, family status
- Genetic characteristics, disability
- A conviction for which a pardon has been granted
This covers both direct discrimination (being treated worse because of who you are) and systemic discrimination (rules or practices that have an unfair effect on a protected group). Employers have a duty to accommodate you up to the point of undue hardship.
When does it apply?
- You work for a federally regulated employer.
- Protection applies at all stages of employment — hiring, promotion, day-to-day treatment, and termination.
- The legal test looks at the effect of the conduct, not the intent. Your employer doesn't have to mean to discriminate for it to count.
What to Do If You're Being Discriminated Against at Work in Canada
- Document everything — dates, times, witnesses, emails, and what was said or done.
- Report internally through your employer's complaint process if one exists.
- File a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) within 12 months. You can file online or call 1-888-214-1090.
- There is no fee and you do not need a lawyer to file.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't suffer in silence — discrimination is against the law, and you have the right to complain.
- Don't retaliate against the person who discriminated against you. Use the proper channels.
- Don't delete evidence — save texts, emails, and notes. They may be critical later.
- Don't assume you need to prove intent. The law focuses on the impact, not whether your employer meant to discriminate.
How British Columbia differs from federal law
The BC Human Rights Code prohibits discrimination in employment on grounds including race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and age (19–65 in employment).
- BC was the first province to add gender identity or expression as a protected ground (added in 2016).
- Employers have a duty to accommodate protected characteristics (such as disability or religious practices) up to the point of undue hardship.
- Complaints go to the BC Human Rights Tribunal, which is separate from the courts. You do not need a lawyer, and there is no filing fee.
- The complaint must be filed within 1 year of the discriminatory act. The Tribunal can award compensation for lost wages, injury to dignity, and expenses.
Additional Steps in British Columbia
File a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal online or by mail within 1 year of the discrimination. The BC Human Rights Clinic (operated by the Community Legal Assistance Society) provides free legal help for people with human rights complaints. You can also contact the BC Human Rights Commissioner for systemic issues.
Relevant Law: Human Rights Code, RSBC 1996, c. 210, ss. 7–14; BC Human Rights Tribunal Rules of Practice and Procedure
Common Questions
When does workplace discrimination apply?
You work for a federally regulated employer.Protection applies at all stages of employment — hiring, promotion, day-to-day treatment, and termination.The legal test looks at the effect of the conduct, not the intent. Your employer doesn't have to mean to discriminate for it to count.
What should I do if I'm experiencing discrimination at my Canadian workplace?
Document everything — dates, times, witnesses, emails, and what was said or done.Report internally through your employer's complaint process if one exists.File a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) within 12 months. You can file online or call 1-888-214-1090.There is no fee and you do not need a lawyer to file.
What mistakes should I avoid with workplace discrimination?
Don't suffer in silence — discrimination is against the law, and you have the right to complain.Don't retaliate against the person who discriminated against you. Use the proper channels.Don't delete evidence — save texts, emails, and notes. They may be critical later.Don't assume you need to prove intent. The law focuses on the impact, not whether your employer meant to discriminate.
Workplace Discrimination in other states
Same topic, different jurisdiction. Pick the one that applies to you.