Policy states that human rights complaints of discrimination and harassment based on gender identity will be accepted under the ground of sex. The Policy was developed as a result of the severe marginalization and stigma experienced by transgendered persons that was reported to the Commission during its consultations. The term transgendered refers to people who are not comfortable with or who reject, in whole or in part, their birth-assigned gender identities. It includes transsexuals, cross-dressers and intersexed individuals. The personal characteristics that are associated with gender identity include self-image, physical and biological appearance, behaviour and conduct, as they relate to gender.
Gender identity is fundamentally different from a person s sexual orientation.
The Policy is the result of a discussion paper on the issue of gender identity published in October 1999. The paper was based on research, community consultations and interviews with selected officials and health professionals. The paper canvassed jurisprudence, domestic and international legislation, literature, and other human rights organisations policies. This information is provided as a public service by the Ontario Human Rights Commission. Although we endeavour to ensure that the information is as current and accurate as possible, errors do occasionally occur.