On December 10, we’re proud to celebrate the International Human Rights Day. This year, we are joining global efforts to recognize the leadership and action of young people in their struggles for protection of dignity, and promoting equitable representation, equal rights and justice.
At UBC, we are dedicated to creating a respectful learning and working environment free of discrimination for students, staff and faculty. As an institution, we centre relationships marked by respect and dignity, and where everyone has equitable access to study and work opportunities.
Students at UBC are leading the change and sharing their voices to build an equitable and sustainable future. Learn how they are standing up for human rights and making positive change at UBC.
What can you do to stand up for human rights?
Familiarize Yourself with BC’s Human Rights Grounds
Did you know there are 14 grounds protected by the BC Human Rights Code? That means everyone has the right to be free of discrimination based on:
- age (actual or perceived)
- ancestry
- colour
- family status
- marital status
- physical or mental disability
- place of origin
- political belief
- race
- religion
- sex
- sexual orientation
- gender identity or expression
- criminal conviction unrelated to employment
UBC Policy #SC7 on Discrimination highlight’s UBC’s commitment to creating a study and work environment that is free from discrimination on those grounds protected by the BC Human Rights Code. The Policy calls attention to the rights and obligations of all UBC members to foster this commitment. It also provides procedures for making complaints, responding to complaints (up to and including formal investigation), and remedies to address instances of discrimination.
Organize Human Rights Training and Advising
Interested in learning how to create a discrimination free and inclusive working environment? Invite our Human Rights staff for a training session with your unit.
Support Friends and Colleagues
Hear something? See something? Say something! Ignoring discrimination and harassment will not make it go away. Listen and support people if you see discrimination happening or if they ask you for help. Speak to a staff or faculty member you know and trust, and reach out to the Equity & Inclusion Office for resources and support.
Speak to UBC’s Human Rights Advisor
The Human Rights Advisor at the Equity & Inclusion Office provides confidential information, advice and support in a fair and impartial manner. Our staff in the Human Rights portfolio can also assist in informally resolving issues of discrimination and harassment.
If you are concerned about discrimination, book an appointment to discuss your concerns with our Human Rights Advisor by emailing humanrights.advisor@equity.ubc.ca.
Want to learn more about human rights advising? Check out our profile on Roshni Narain and how her role supports human rights at UBC.