RIGHTS COMMISSION CALLS FOR END TO SKIMPY DRESS CODES
Mar 08, 2016
By Bob Komsic
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The Ontario Human Rights Commission is urging for an end to dress codes that discriminate against female and transgender workers.
Chief commissioner Renu Mandhane says employers must make sure dress codes do not reinforce sexist stereotypes.
In a just released policy position paper, the commissioner says employers needs to send a message that an employees’ worth is not tied to how they look, adding requiring women to wear low-cut tops, short skirts or high heels could violate the Human Rights code.
Mandhane adds women who work in bars, restaurants and other services should not be expected to dress in such a way to attract clients.
The Human Rights Legal Support Centre’s Kathy Laird says ”excellent customer service doesn’t have a cup size.”
She’s encouraging women to call her office for legal advice if ”cleavage is deemed an essential skill in their workplace.”