Letters and messages from the chief commissioner: September 7, 2004
Chief commissioner's letter to the editor, published in the Calgary Herald, concerning alleged racial profiling in some Calgary nightclubs and bars - September 7, 2004
As chief commissioner of the Alberta Human Rights and Citizenship Commission, reports alleging racial profiling and racial discrimination in some Calgary nightclubs and bars are of great concern to me.
The aim of human rights legislation is to eliminate discrimination and to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society. It recognizes that everyone is equal in dignity, rights and responsibilities and protects them from being treated differently because of characteristics such as colour of their skin or religion.
Nightclubs and bars have to follow Alberta's human rights legislation. The purpose of the legislation as it relates to service providers is to eliminate discrimination in such enterprises.
The Alberta Human Rights and Citizenship Commission is available to answer questions and provide information and education about rights and responsibilities. It also supports Albertans in resolving and settling complaints alleging discrimination. The Commission becomes involved if someone makes a complaint that is within its jurisdiction. The Commission does not have the power to lay complaints or initiate an investigation unrelated to a complaint.
To find out more about the legislation and how it applies, call 297-6571, or visit our website at http://www.albertahumanrights.ab.ca/. TTY service for persons who are deaf or hard of hearing is available at 297-5639.
Charlach Mackintosh
Chief Commissioner
Alberta Human Rights & Citizenship Commission
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