Workplace Discrimination in Saskatchewan
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 Saskatchewan differs from federal law
Workplace discrimination in Saskatchewan is prohibited by The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018, SS 2018, c. S-24.2, enforced by the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
- Protected grounds include: religion, creed, marital status, family status, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, disability, age (18 and over), colour, ancestry, nationality, place of origin, race or perceived race, receipt of public assistance, and gender identity and gender expression.
- Employers have a duty to accommodate employees with disabilities, religious practices, and other protected needs up to the point of undue hardship.
- The Code covers all stages of employment: job advertisements, hiring, wages, working conditions, promotions, and termination.
- Harassment in the workplace based on any protected ground is also prohibited, including sexual harassment.
- Saskatchewan's receipt of public assistance ground means employers cannot discriminate against workers who receive Employment Insurance, social assistance, or other government benefits.
Additional Steps in Saskatchewan
File a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission within 1 year of the discrimination. Complaints can be filed online at saskatchewanhumanrights.ca, by phone at 306-933-5952 or 1-800-667-9249 (toll-free), or in person. You do not need a lawyer. The Commission will investigate and attempt resolution. If unresolved, the case may be referred to the Court of King's Bench for a hearing. Remedies can include compensation, reinstatement, and policy changes.
Relevant Law: The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018, SS 2018, c. S-24.2, ss. 2-1, 16, 28
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.