Celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8

Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, it’s important to reflect on the significant strides women have made in Canada. From winning the right to vote in 1918 to securing a discrimination-free workspace in 1977, women have come a long way in the fight for equality. The journey towards equality has not been easy. Underneath the seemingly smooth surface lies the enduring struggle of those women who used their own experiences as an opportunity to lead by example. They have faced adversity head-on, taking legal action against discrimination and harassment in the workplace, and paving the way for safer workspaces for future generations. This International Women’s Day, we must pay tribute to these brave women. Their courage and determination have not only brought about change in their own lives but have also created ripple effects across the country. Their actions have led to the termination of employment for perpetrators and revisions to workplace policies, ensuring that all employees feel safe and respected. However, the fight is far from over. This is a call to action to all those who are or have suffered quietly – your action may end the suffering of other women. It’s a reminder that every voice matters and every action counts. One such woman was L.N who filed a human rights complaint in 2020 against her employer, Ray Daniel Salon & Spa and Mr. Reza Khosravi. Mr. Khosravi was the sole person responsible for the spa’s operations. L.N. was new to Canada when she commenced her employment in April 2019. The spa paid her $5 per hour (below minimum wage) and in the short time she worked there until May 31, 2019, Mr. Khosravi twice raped L.N, physically and sexually assaulted her and threatened her with reprisal. No investigation was conducted, and her employment was terminated. The spa did not pay L.N. for the month of May 2019. As a new immigrant, L.N. was not aware that Canada had a minimum wage. She was afraid to report the sexual assault and rape to the police for fear of being deported. In her application at the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, L.N. sought a total of $250,000, comprising of $210,000 for sexual solicitation and sexual harassment; $30,000 for reprisal; and $10,000 for citizenship-based discrimination. The Tribunal settled on a figure of $180,000. Additionally, the ruling mandated human rights training for the managerial staff of Ray Daniel Salon & Spa and required the posting of the decision within the workplace to prevent future violations. On this International Women’s Day, let’s honor the women who have paved the way for us. As we celebrate the achievements of women, let’s also remember the ongoing struggle of women like L.N. Let’s continue to break the glass ceiling and strive for a world where equal opportunity is not just a concept, but a reality. This is not legal advice. If you need legal advice with respect to workplace violence, please email: tkhorasanee@steinbergsllp.com