Newfoundland and Labrador
In this section, we explore human rights, particularly the right to equality and non-discrimination, in Newfoundland and Labrador. Learn how these rights are protected, the specific issues relevant to this region, and the resources available to ensure their enforcement and promotion.
Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act
The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act provides protection against discrimination for individuals within the province.
The Act prohibits discrimination based on race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, social origin, religious creed, religion, age, disability, disfigurement, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, family status, source of income, political opinion, conviction of an offence unrelated to the employment, and association with a person or persons identified by one or more of these characteristics.
These prohibited grounds of discrimination apply namely in the following areas:
Goods, services, accommodation, and facilities generally available to the public; commercial and dwelling units; employment (including hiring, dismissal, wages, union membership, and workplace harassment); publishing and advertising; and contracts generally available to the public.
If discrimination occurs in violation of the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act, a complaint must be filed with the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission.
When a complaint is filed, the Commission facilitates mediation to help the parties resolve the issue amicably. Mediation services are available throughout the complaint process.
If mediation fails, the Commission investigates the complaint and may decide to refer it to a Board of Inquiry.At any point before a hearing, the Commission may dismiss the complaint if it falls outside its jurisdiction or if it is deemed insignificant, frivolous, vexatious, or made in bad faith. If a Board of Inquiry is convened, it holds a public hearing and subsequently determines whether discrimination occurred.
What If a Complaint Is Dismissed?
If the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission dismisses a complaint, it is possible to challenge the decision by filing a judicial review request within 30 days of receiving the notice of dismissal.
IMPORTANT: A complaint must be filed within one year of the alleged discrimination.
For More Information on the Complaint Process, Visit:
What Types of Reparations Are Possible?
If a Board of Inquiry determines that discrimination occurred, it may order various forms of reparation, including: requiring the offender to cease the discriminatory act, restoring the victim’s rights, opportunities, and privileges that were denied due to discrimination, compensating the victim for financial losses caused by the discrimination, and taking any other actions deemed appropriate by the Board based on the circumstances.
What If You Disagree with the Dismissal of a Complaint or the Decision of the Board of Inquiry?
If you disagree with the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission’s decision to dismiss a complaint or with the decision of the Board of Inquiry, you have the right to appeal the decision.
IMPORTANT: An appeal must be filed within 30 days of receiving the Board of Inquiry’s decision.