Workplace Harassment

As you prepare for life beyond high school (whether in the workplace, at college, or living independently) understanding your legal rights is your most powerful tool for protection. This module covers the spectrum of harassment and discrimination, the impact of media on our social biases, and the resources available to combat abuse.

Defining Your Rights

Harassment and discrimination are not just "unpleasant" behaviors; they are violations of human rights.

Workplace Safety in Ontario

The Government of Ontario has specific laws to protect workers from harassment and violence on the job.

Domestic Abuse & Global Awareness

At the extreme end of the relationship spectrum is domestic abuse. This is a global issue that affects millions, regardless of location or background.

  • Understand the Signs: What is Domestic Abuse? - United Nations
  • Note: If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, your teacher is a safe person to talk to. We can help you connect with professional support and report incidents safely.

Media, Stereotypes, and #MeToo

The media we consume often reinforces harmful stereotypes that can lead to prejudice or the normalization of harassment.

Identifying & Preventing Sexual Harassment

Sexual and gender-based harassment are specific legal issues with high levels of detail regarding what constitutes a violation.

Personal Reflection Checklist

  • Rights: I can name three "protected grounds" under the Canadian Human Rights Commission.
  • Workplace: I know the steps to legally pursue a solution if I am harassed at work.
  • Media Literacy: I can identify one relationship stereotype I've seen in a movie or TV show.
  • Boundaries: I can describe one verbal way to clearly set a boundary in a professional environment.

Assessment

Pre-Submission

Before you submit, please complete the Pre-Submission Self-Assessment.

What to Turn In

  • 📤
    Pre-Submission Self-Assessment Google Doc
  • 📤

    Nothing to submit

Learning Goals

We are learning to:

  • 🎯

    Understand the legal definitions and implications of harassment, discrimination, and abuse

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    Critically analyze the role of media in shaping relationship stereotypes and prejudices

  • 🎯

    Identify strategies and resources for preventing and responding to harassment in professional and personal settings

Success Criteria

I can:

  • ✅

    Explain the legal implications of harassment and abuse under the Ontario Human Rights Code

    Expectations Covered: C1.1
  • ✅

    Identify common media portrayals of relationships and explain how they can create false impressions

    Expectations Covered: C3.4
  • ✅

    Describe local and global resources available for supporting victims of domestic or workplace abuse

    Expectations Covered: C3.2
  • ✅

    Demonstrate communication skills that help set boundaries and reduce vulnerability to harassment

    Expectations Covered: C2.2