Discrimination in accessing a service

What are my rights?

My partner and I were denied service at a restaurant because we had our eight-month-old with us. Is this allowed?
  • Yes
  • No

We shop at stores, dine at restaurants, take classes — accessing services like these is a regular part of daily life. When accessing services in British Columbia, you have the right to be free from discrimination. Learn how this plays out in practice, and steps you can take if you experience discrimination when accessing a service.

Content warning

This page describes experiences of discrimination. It may bring up difficult or traumatic memories or feelings. 

What you should know

Work out the problem

Who can help

The BC Human Rights Tribunal lists organizations that can help if you feel you’ve been discriminated against. Below are some of the key ones.

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in November 2022
  • Time to read: 8 minutes

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

Kayla Bergsson, MacIsaac & Company

Kayla Bergsson

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Still not sure what to do?

If you're looking for advice specific to your situation, there are options for free or low-cost help.

Options for legal help

We are grateful to work on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, whose Peoples continue to live on and care for these lands.