Policy and guidelines on discrimination because of family status : Politique et directives concernant la discrimination au motif de l'état familial

The provisions of the Code are aimed at creating a climate of understanding and mutual respect for the dignity and worth of each person, so that each person feels a part of the community and feels able to contribute to the community. [...] At the same time, the Policy interprets the protections of the Code in a broad and purposive manner, consistent with the principle that the quasi- constitutional status of the Code requires that it be given a liberal interpretation that best ensures its anti-discriminatory goals are attained. [...] The analysis and examples used in the Policy are based on the Commission’s research on discrimination on the basis of family status, international standards, complaints that have come before the Commission, tribunal and court decisions, and the input of individuals and organizations in the Commission’s consultation process. [...] The needs and rights of persons with familial responsibilities have been recognized in numerous international covenants to which Canada is a signatory, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,5 the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, 6. the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights,7 the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination [...] Through these international human rights instruments, Canada has agreed to recognize the particular needs of families with young children, and to render appropriate assistance to parents and legal guardians in the performance of their child-rearing responsibilities and to ensure the development of institutions, facilities and services for the care of children.