Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by The Manitoba Human Rights Code. This includes protection from differential treatment based on a person's actual or presumed sexual orientation or his or her association with a person who is gay, lesbian or bisexual. It extends to employment, housing accommodations, the provision of services, and contracts.

Employment

Refusing to hire or promote or provide equal treatment in employment to someone because of his or her sexual orientation is illegal. Employees have a right to work in an environment free of harassment based on their sexual orientation.

Series

Protection from discrimination in the provision of services includes those services usually available to the public or a portion of the public. Examples of such services include education, public services, restaurants, dental or medical services, stores, hotels, repair services and cinemas.

Housing

All tenants and prospective tenants have the right to equal treatment in the rental of accommodation, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Prohibited Discrimination

The Manitoba Human Rights Commission accepts and investigates complaints of discrimination. The Manitoba Human Rights Code also expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of ancestry (including colour and perceived race), nationality, ethnic origin, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, marital or family status, source of income, political belief and physical or mental disability. Employers, landlords, business operators and providers of service are required to reasonably accommodate the special needs of individuals which are based on any of these characteristics.

Human rights legislation has paramount status in Manitoba. This means that where there is a conflict with other provincial legislation, The Human Rights Code prevails. For more information consult The Code or contact The Manitoba Human Rights Commission.