Hot Tip -- by Richard Young

The Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Act recognizes everyone in Alberta has the right to be treated with dignity and equality. It is a legislated right that every person in Alberta is protected from discrimination in the following areas and grounds.

Areas:

• employment
• notices, signs and other representations
• services, public accommodation and facilities
• tenancy
• membership in trade unions, employer's organizations or occupational associations

Grounds:

• race
• gender
• age
• religious beliefs
• physical or mental disability
• ancestry
• color
• marital status
• family status
• place of origin
• source of income

If anyone feels that they or someone else has been discriminated against in the areas and grounds covered by the Alberta Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Act they may seek confidential advice from, or lodge a complaint with, the Alberta Human Rights and Citizenship Commission. They have one year from the alleged incident to file the complaint.

If discrimination did occur, a human rights officer will work with both parties to resolve the conflict. If this stage is not effective, the complaint will proceed to investigation. From this recommendations are made for a resolution.

Complainants pay no fee for services.