Workers with Disabilities Committee
Disability discrimination
Discrimination based on disability is illegal in B.C. If you are being treated unfairly at work because of a disability, illness or perceived disability, you have options—and your union is here to support you.
Overview
What counts as disability discrimination?
Discrimination can be direct or subtle. It may include:
- Being passed over for a job, promotion or training because of a disability
- Being disciplined or fired related to a disability or medical leave
- Harassment or bullying related to your disability
- An employer refusing to engage in the accommodation process
- Being treated differently because your employer perceives you to have a disability, even if you don't
What to do
If you're experiencing discrimination
Document everything—keep a record of dates, what was said or done and who was present.
Contact your steward as soon as possible—the sooner you reach out, the more options you have.
Your steward can help you decide whether to file a grievance, a human rights complaint or both.
You have one year from the date of discrimination to file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
Human rights process
Filing a human rights complaint
The BC Human Rights Tribunal handles discrimination complaints in B.C. The process is free. Your employer cannot retaliate against you for filing a complaint—that itself would be a separate violation of the B.C. Human Rights Code.
The BC Human Rights Clinic offers free legal advice to help you understand and navigate the complaint process. You do not need a lawyer to file.
Know your rights
Your rights under the B.C. Human Rights Code
- The B.C. Human Rights Code prohibits discrimination based on physical and mental disability
- The code protects workers at all stages of employment—hiring, terms of work, discipline and termination
- The B.C. Human Rights Code also protects perceived disability—you do not need a formal diagnosis
- Your employer cannot retaliate against you for making or considering a complaint
Acknowledgement
This page is maintained by the BCGEU Workers with Disabilities Committee, with feedback and input from committee members.
This is a living resource — we welcome your feedback and will continue to update this page as member needs evolve. To suggest additions or changes, email [email protected].