Discrimination
Discrimination is the denial of equal treatment, civil liberties, or opportunity to individuals or groups regarding education, accommodation, health care, employment, or access to services, goods or facilities.
If you believe you have been discriminated against or harassed because you have epilepsy (including wrongful dismissal and refusal of accommodation), you may complain to the Ontario Human Rights Commission. The Commission is responsible for enforcing the Ontario Human Rights Code, which states:
“Every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to employment without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, record of offences, marital status, family status or handicap (also referred to as disability).” (Part I, Section 5)
The Commission follows an effective and efficient case management process, which includes inquiries, intake, mediation, and investigation.
Types of Disability Protected by the Code
[Part II, Section 10 (1)]
- any degree of physical disability or disfigurement caused by injury, illness or birth defect (including diabetes, epilepsy, paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co-ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, and reliance on a dog guide, wheelchair or other remedial device)
- learning disability or any dysfunction in ability to understand or use symbols or speech
- mental retardation or impairment
- mental disorder
- injury or disability for which benefits may be claimed or received under Ontario’s Workers’ Compensation Act
Ontario Human Rights Commission
180 Dundas Street West, 8th Floor
Toronto, ON M7A 2R9
416-314-4500
416-314-4561 fax
800-387-9080 (toll free)
email [email protected]
