Both are serious. Neither can be tolerated. Discrimination means that a person or group is disadvantaged because of a distinction relating to these personal attributes that limits access to opportunities, benefits or advantages available to others. It is the impact of the behaviour, not the intention behind it, that determines whether the behaviour is discriminatory. Harassment includes unwelcome comments or actions that might reasonably be expected to cause insecurity, discomfort, offence or humiliation to another person.
Harassment applies to a range of behaviour.
Discrimination and harassment poison relationships and can cause workplace problems such as low morale, reduced productivity, and the loss of valuable employees. With increased discussion and awareness of the problems that arise, the legal profession can more successfully develop the clear policies and understanding necessary to eliminate discrimination and harassment from the legal workplace. Equity Ombudsperson Jeanne Byron provides confidential advice, information and assistance to lawyers, articled students and support staff working for firms and other legal employers on issues of discrimination or harassment by lawyers. The goal of the Equity Ombudsperson is to resolve problems, not to lay blame. Talking to Jeanne does not eliminate your other options such as filing a formal complaint with the Law Society or the Human Rights Commission or commencing a civil action.