The Human Rights Code was passed by the Newfoundland Legislature in 1969. The Code, which is part of the law of Newfoundland and Labrador, was proclaimed fully in force on September 1, 1971. It has been amended several times since to improve procedures and protections offered to the residents of this province.

Why is there a Human Rights Code?

The Legislature of Newfoundland and Labrador believes implicitly in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as proclaimed by the United Nations. To reaffirm the Legislature's faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men and women, the Code was made law. The provisions of the Code allow for the regulation of all matters concerning human rights that fall within the competence of the Legislature.

View the Human Rights Code online (English / French)

Follow this link to a consolidated copy of the Human Rights Code. Please note that this is not an official copy of the Code. If you require an official copy, please contact the Queen's Printer.

View the Annotated Human Rights Code online.

Follow this link to a annotated copy of the Human Rights Code. This document contains the text of each section of the Code accompanied with a synopsis and annotations which summarize legal decisions that comment upon the section.

Prohibited Grounds
The Code lists the following grounds on which discrimination is prohibited:

Race
Religion
Religious Creed
Political Opinion
Colour or Ethnic Origin
National or Social Origin
Sex
Marital Status
Physical or Mental Disability
Age 19-65 (Employment)
Sexual Orientation

Areas

The Code prohibits discrimination in the areas of:

accommodation, services or facilities (except for good faith limitations for persons with physical or mental disabilities)
Occupancy of commercial or self-contained dwelling units
Employment (between ages of 19-65 except for good faith occupational qualification)
Publications

Harassment is Prohibited

Persons who are occupants of commercial or self-contained dwelling units
Persons in the workplace

Other Provisions/Protection in The Code

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