Alberta

The Alberta Human Rights Act (AHRA) ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to earn a living, find a place to live and enjoy the services customarily available to the public without discrimination.

It sanctions discrimination in the following areas: statements, publications, notices, signs, symbols, emblems or other representations that are published, issued or displayed before the public; goods, services, accommodations or facilities customarily available to the public; and rentals.

The Alberta Human Rights Commission (Commission) has a mandate to promote equality and combat discrimination. The Commission provides public education and awareness, undertakes community initiatives, handles complaints of discrimination within the province, and investigates and hears cases before human rights tribunals.

The Alberta Human Rights Tribunal (Tribunal) is an independent adjudicative body of the Commission responsible for the resolution of complaints.

What are the prohibited grounds of discrimination? Race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status or sexual orientation.

What are the time limits for filing a complaint? The Commission must receive your complaint form no later than one year after the alleged discrimination (which begins the day after the alleged discrimination occurred).

How do I file a complaint? You can download the online complaint form from the Commission's website here.

What is the procedure? Complaints are addressed to the Commission. If the Commission rejects your complaint, it will inform you in writing. If the Commission accepts the complaint, it will ask the respondent to provide a written response. The Commission may recommend that both parties attempt conciliation or decide to investigate the complaint. If conciliation fails, a Human Rights Tribunal may be appointed to hear your complaint.

What compensation can you get? You may be entitled to financial compensation for your losses and suffering. Compensation may also take the form of an apology, a change in policy, or the participation of the discriminator in a human rights education activity.

This content has been updated on 4 March 2023 at 11 h 18 min.