Human Rights and Equity 

"OISE is strongly committed to social justice in everything it does. This means that we are committed to the just treatment of each individual member of our community and the communities we serve. It also means that we are especially vigilant to ensure that differences are not treated in ways that produce direct or indirect forms of discrimination. Our commitment to social justice also means that those with whom we work and live who experience individual or systemic discrimination, for whatever reason, are provided with the means to overcome social and physical disadvantages, to the best of our ability." (OISE Policy on Equity and Diversity. Approved by OISE Faculty Council April 6, 2005)

Discrimination and harassment are illegal practices under the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Harassment is engaging in any annoying and/or provoking comment or conduct that is considered unwelcome.  Discrimination is any practice or behaviour, whether intentional or not, that has a negative effect on an individual or group because of their:

• Age      

• Ancestry

• Citizenship      

• Colour

• Creed (faith)   

• Disability

• Economic Status

• Ethnic Origin   

• Family Status

• Gender                          

• Gender Identity

• Level of Literacy

• Marital Status  

• Place of Origin

• Political Affiliation

• Race                  

• Receipt of Social Assistance

• Size

• Sexual Orientation (whether you are lesbian, gay, straight, bisexual, or transgendered)    

Who is protected?

All OISE students are entitled and encouraged to complain if they believe that they have experienced discrimination and harassment.

What can students do?

Talk to Others:  If someone is harassing you or someone you know, other people are probably having the same experience.

Keep a Record:  Write down all the details.  Include dates, times, and names of witnesses.
 

Speak Up:  If you’re able to, it’s your right to tell the harasser that you do not like the harassment and insist that it stop.
 

Get Assistance:  Contact a Human Rights Resource Person, an adult you trust in your school, or the Human Rights Office. 

File a Complaint:  If you feel the situation is too serious to handle on your own, you have a right to make a complaint by contacting Student Services.

If someone makes a complaint against you:  You have the right to ask for help and to consult with a support person.