A society based on the rule of law

Québec is a democratic society based on the rule of law. All persons are equal in value and in dignity and have the right to the equal protection of the law. They must obey all laws regardless of their beliefs.

It is prohibited to discriminate against individuals on the basis of reasons set forth in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, specifically:

• Race
• Color
• Sex
• Pregnancy
• Sexual orientation
• Civil status
• Age except as provided by law
• Religion
• Political beliefs
• Language
• Ethnic or national origin
• Social condition
• Disability or use of a means to mitigate this disability

For example, a person cannot be refused housing due to ethnic origin, social condition or disability. Discrimination is prohibited in the workplace, specifically in job offers, the hiring process and working conditions. The law also prohibits harassment in all its forms. In this same spirit, homosexuals are recognized as having the same rights and responsibilities as all other citizens of Québec.

Useful links

• Assemblée nationale du Québec
• Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms
• Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse
• Ministère de la Justice
• Régie du logement
• Secrétariat à la condition féminine
• The Québec Ombudsman