Description of
the right

Discrimination on the basis of pregnancy is prohibited.

You cannot have benefits taken away or be subjected to harassment or disrespect at work because of a pregnancy or termination of pregnancy.

You cannot be dismissed or punished for requesting leave or arrangements permitted by law.

Your employer must allow you to take time off to attend medical appointments related to your pregnancy.

If you are seeking employment, you cannot be denied simply because you are pregnant or plan to have children.

Several examples of situations

Here are examples of discrimination prohibited by law.

  • I was dismissed because I announced my pregnancy.
  • I was told that, if I took parental leave, I would lose my job.
  • During a job interview, I was asked about my pregnancy or my intention to have children and my application was rejected because I want to start a family.

References

Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms: section 10, 10.1 and 16

Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms: section 15(1) 

Act respecting labour standards: section 122