The Saskatchewan Bill of Rights, which was adopted by the provincial legislature last month, entered into effect yesterday. The measure has been described as the most comprehensive anti-discrimination law ever enacted.
The bill provides that there shall be no discrimination on grounds of “race, creed, religion, color or ethnic or national origin” against persons with respect to employment; the right to carry on any occupation or business enterprise under the law; the right to own, lease, rent and occupy property; the right of access to public places; the right to membership in professional, labor or other occupational organizations; and the right to education.
The only exceptions to these provisions are for educational institutions where a particular creed or religion is taught and cases of domestic service or employment involving a personal relationship. The bill also prohibits, without abridging the rights of legitimate expression, publication or display of any matter tending to cause racial or religious discrimination. Penalties for violations provide for fines ranging from $50 to $200, with imprisonment for not more than three months in default of payment.
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