Social changes in society have transformed the work environment and how business is conducted. Today, respecting a person’s dignity is fundamental to the success of any organization. The federal government has enacted legislature protecting how employees are treated. The treasury board has implemented harassment policies which govern how federal employees are treated in the workplace. In settling harassment disputes, Canadian courts rule favourably for companies who take preventative measures by providing training and education for their employees on anti-harassment.

The employer is responsible for creating a harassment free work environment. Harassment complaints can tarnish a company’s reputation and lead to financial loss. A poisoned work environment can lead to low morale, decreased productivity, hostility, in addition to debilitating financial costs.

In Ontario, new legislation requires employers to ensure that each person has equal rights and opportunities without discrimination or harassment. By law in Ontario, employers with more than five employees shall:

  • Conduct anti-harassment and workplace violence training
  • Develop written policies on anti-harassment and workplace violence
  • Implement programs to monitor and deal with any instance of harassment or violence
  • Conduct annual review of these policies

News

Judges orders millions paid in NYC firefighter bias case

As a consequence of using biased entrance exams and a pattern of underrepresentation of minorities in New York’s fire department, the city was ordered to pay $128 million and hire additional black and Latino applicants. Full story from CNN

National union says airport strikers disrespected

Striking workers at Fredericton International Airport report they suffer from workplace bullying as both sides aim to move forward with little progress. Full story from CBC

Aboriginal ex-Mountie joining sexual harassment lawsuit

The first female aboriginal Mountie in Manitoba joins other women in sexual harassment lawsuit against the police force. She says that during her 31 years of service she experienced sexual harassment, racism, discrimination and bullying by fellow RCMP members and wants to see justice. Full story from CBC

Recording surfaces of alleged racial abuse by London police

The Crown Prosecution Service decides to review a case where London police used numerous racial epithets and taunting during an arrest for a driving offence. Full story from the CNN

Strauss-Kahn: A reputation battered by sex allegations

Despite a well established career in economics and politics, former IMF chief and political contender Dominique Strauss-Kahn’s name is now connected to sexual assault allegations demonstrating how one’s reputation can quickly become tarnished. Full story from CNN

Three men plead guilty to federal hate crimes in Mississippi killing

Three young men with an admitted history of racially motivated harassing and assaulting, face up to life imprisonment sentencing for the brutal death of a 47 year old African-American man in Jackson and plead guilty to violating the Hate Crimes Prevention Act. Full story from CNN

Asian-Canadian gay youth face double discrimination

A new study finds that gay, lesbian, and bisexual Asian-Canadian teens experience more racism and discrimination than heterosexual Asian-Canadians and that discrimination and bullying can lead to higher risk of substance abuse, especially when combined with a lack of support. Full story from the Vancouver Sun