Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society
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Know Your Legal Rights

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Everyone has the right to live, work, and participate in their community without barriers. In Canada, laws protect the rights of people with disabilities and help ensure equal opportunities in employment, services, and daily life.

This page provides an overview of:

  • Legal protections
  • The right to accommodation
  • How to report discrimination

You’ll also find links to organizations that support disability rights.

Legal Protections

Key protections include:

  • The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
  • The Nunavut Human Rights Act

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Canada has committed to protecting and promoting the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. Canada joined the UN Convention in 2010. Its principles include:

  • Respect for autonomy and choice
  • Non-discrimination, including all aspects of the workplace (hiring, career advancement, labour unions, safety protocols, job assistance, ongoing technical and occupational support) 
  • Full participation and inclusion
  • Respect for diversity and differences
  • Equal opportunity
  • Accessibility
  • Equality between sex/gender
  • Respect for evolving capacities and identities

The Nunavut Human Rights Act

The The Nunavut Human Rights Act protects Indigenous people with disabilities and follows the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) framework.

The Right to Accommodation

Duty to Accommodate: Employers must remove barriers and provide the necessary support to ensure equal opportunities at work. Sometimes this means treating people differently so they can succeed. Sometimes it means changing the job environment or the tools of the job. Sometimes it means changing policies, rules, or practices.

How to Report Discrimination

If you experience discrimination or need legal support, you can file a complaint with the Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal [link] or other legal organizations.

Resources

For more information about legal rights for Nunavummiut with disabilities, explore resources in the Legal Rights category.