Discrimination in the Workplace

Dear globalcounselor,

I am a newcomer to Canada and am working in a macho male-dominated environment. I am highly educated but because I am a newcomer I cannot find work in my field and so I have to do manual labour to feed my family for the time being. I do not intend to be stuck in this pit, I’d rather return to my country  in West Africa.  I work with a lot of idiots who do not have education but the privilege of being born in a rich country. I am among a handful of minority workers. I feel very uncomfortable working close too white people. I feel their energy is negative towards me. I do not feel safe. They watch me from under neath and whenever I look at them they turn away. I hear comments such as  “too many of these people are coming in”  “we won’t recognize Canada in a few years, it’ll be like a shitty third world country”.  I have heard my co-workers using the word “nigger” in their conversation amongst themselves. It makes my blood boil but I have to be quiet, I have to get my citizenship and think of my family but sometimes I am pushed to the brink. What can I do to contain myself how can I handle this situation”

Disappointed

Dear Disappointed:

There are lots of ignorate people i n the world who needs to be educated and it is not fair that the target of the discrimination should be the ones to constantly educate ignorant people. I know there are many Canadians who embrace diversity, equity and  and human rights ideals who are in the majority.

    What you are experiencing appears to be harassment in the workplace and you do not have to put up with it. You can tell someone e.g. a supervisor or manager to speak to these people  and if they fail you can take your case to the Manitoba Human Rights Commission and they will guide you through the process.

Everyone deserves to work in an environment free from discrimination and harassment and it is the job of the employer to provide such an environment, if not, they are violating the human rights code.  I hope you find some relief through this department.