Guide to Human Rights

For a more detailed breakdown - see the NS Human Rights Act.

In Nova Scotia, the Human Rights Act protects individuals and groups from discrimination in employment based on a “protected characteristic”.

An employer cannot discriminate against someone because of any of the following factors:

  • Age,

  • Race, Colour,

  • Religion,

  • Sex, Sexual orientation, Gender identity, Gender expression,

  • Physical disability or mental disability,

  • An irrational fear of contracting an illness or disease (designed to protect those living with transmittable diseases, like HIV/AIDS),

  • Ethnic, national, or aboriginal origin,

  • Family status, Marital status,

  • Source of income,

  • Political beliefs, affiliation or activity, and,

  • The individual’s association with another class of individuals having the characteristics listed above.

Simply, the Nova Scotia Human rights act protects you from differential treatment during the course of your employment where that treatment or disadvantage is related to your membership in one of the above protected classes. This includes things like sexual harassment and harassment of any kind based on the protected characteristics, like racism or religious discrimination.

If you feel your rights have been violated because of any of the above characteristics, you can file a Human Rights Complaint with the Human Rights Commission of Nova Scotia. You can also reach out to the Halifax WAC to fight back directly! Contact us at info@halifaxwac.ca or by joining as a member.

How to File a Human Rights Complaint

This general guide is not conclusive or comprehensive. Questions should be directed to the Human Rights Commission of Nova Scotia.

If you have specific questions about workplace discrimination, please fill out our Intake Form!

  • In chronological order, and using specific dates, outline all events you believe are relevant. Gather copies of documents, such as emails, contracts, and pay stubs, etc. Keep these on a personal computer or in a safe place at home. A timeline will make the following steps much easier.

  • Call the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and explain your workplace situation. If it falls within the jurisdiction of the NS Human Rights Act, an officer will help you file an official complaint.

  • If it appears that your human rights have been affected, the Human Rights Commission will notify your employer.

    Note: your employer cannot retaliate against you for filing a human rights complaint. If they do, or you suspect they do - reach out to the Halifax WAC.

  • Typically, parties attend a resolution conference and create their own solution to the issue. This will lead to a written settlement agreement. If no resolution is achieved, next steps will be determined by the Human Rights Commissioners.

Remember, each situation is unique and may require different processes and solutions. To speak to a Nova Scotia Human Rights Officer, call 1-877-269-7699.