Harassment can happen in workplaces, online spaces, schools, and personal relationships. It can leave people feeling unsafe, powerless, and unsure of where to turn. Many survivors in Canada do not realize that there are laws and protections in place to help them.
If you are experiencing ongoing unwanted contact, intimidation, threats, or harassment, this guide explains your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
What Counts as Harassment in Canada?
Harassment includes repeated behaviour that causes fear, distress, or emotional harm. It may involve one person or multiple people and can happen in person or online.
Examples of harassment include:
- Repeated unwanted messages or calls
- Threats or intimidation
- Monitoring your activities
- Spreading false information
- Showing up uninvited
- Online abuse or impersonation
If someone continues after you have clearly said no, it may be harassment.
Criminal Harassment Under Canadian Law
In Canada, serious forms of harassment may fall under criminal harassment laws. This applies when a person repeatedly contacts, follows, watches, or threatens someone in a way that causes fear for safety.
Criminal harassment may include:
- Following you in person
- Repeatedly contacting you
- Watching your home or workplace
- Threatening behaviour
If you fear for your safety, you can contact police to discuss whether criminal charges may apply.
Your Workplace Rights
If harassment happens at work or involves a coworker, Canadian employers have a legal duty to provide a safe environment.
Your workplace rights may include:
- Reporting harassment without retaliation
- Requesting safety accommodations
- Access to workplace investigations
- Protection from discrimination
Employers must take complaints seriously and act to protect employees.
You can learn more about workplace safety through our Safety Education programs.
Protection Orders and Peace Bonds
In some situations, you may be able to apply for legal protection.
Options may include:
- Peace bonds
- Protection orders
- No-contact orders
These orders can restrict someone from contacting or approaching you and may include conditions related to work, home, or online contact.
A legal advocate or support worker can help you understand which option fits your situation.
Human Rights Protections
Harassment connected to gender, disability, race, sexual orientation, or other protected grounds may fall under human rights laws.
You may be able to file a complaint if harassment involves discrimination or unequal treatment.
Human rights processes focus on accountability and systemic change.
Documenting Harassment
Strong documentation helps support any legal or workplace complaint.
Keep records of:
- Messages and emails
- Voicemails
- Screenshots
- Incident dates and times
- Witness names
Store copies in a safe, private location.
Getting Support and Legal Guidance
You do not need to navigate this alone. Many organizations in Canada provide confidential support and legal information.
Support services can help with:
- Safety planning
- Court preparation
- Workplace advocacy
- Emotional support
Visit our Victim Support page for resources and referrals.
Protecting Your Wellbeing
Harassment can affect sleep, concentration, confidence, and mental health. These impacts are real and valid.
Seeking counselling, peer support, or trauma-informed services is a strength, not a weakness.
You deserve safety and peace.
How Safety Warrior Mama Can Help
Safety Warrior Mama provides survivor-led safety education, advocacy, and workplace training across British Columbia and Canada.
We help individuals and organizations understand legal rights, prevention strategies, and safety planning.
Contact us to learn more about our programs and support services.
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