Public Commons

• Human Rights and Harassment Policy, City of Toronto

Part of General Policies

Policy Statement

Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, every person has a right to equal treatment by the City of Toronto, its agencies, boards, commissions and its citizen advisory committees, with respect to services and facilities, accommodation, contracts and employment.

In continuing its leadership in the recognition of the dignity and worth of each person, the City of Toronto has adopted this Human Rights and Harassment Policy to ensure ethical and respectful service and employment practices which incorporate equitable treatment for all employees, residents, and recipients of municipal services.

The goal of the Policy is the creation of a climate of understanding and mutual respect where each person feels a part of the community and is able to contribute fully to the development and well-being of the City of Toronto.

The City of Toronto will not tolerate, ignore, or condone any form of discrimination or harassment. All employees are responsible for respecting the dignity and rights of their co-workers and the public they serve. Discrimination and harassment are serious forms of employee misconduct which may result in disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

Members of the public, visitors to City facilities, or individuals conducting business with the City of Toronto, are expected to adhere to this Policy, including refraining from harassment of employees, elected officials, and persons acting on behalf of the City of Toronto. If such harassment occurs, the City will take any steps available to ensure a harassment-free workplace, including barring the harasser from its facilities, where appropriate, or discontinuing business with contractors or consultants.

Application

Every person has a right to equal treatment without discrimination or harassment because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, family status, receipt of public assistance, political affiliation, disability or level of literacy.