Situation 2 – Confused About Rights

Employee: Raj Patel (33, Data Analyst, newcomer from India, Permanent Resident)

Context: Works hybrid: 2 days at home, 3 in office. Raj received a generic onboarding package but is confused about Canadian workplace rights (e.g., breaks, overtime, vacation). He’s hesitant to ask HR directly, fearing he’ll be seen as uninformed. He notices colleagues who grew up in Canada seem to “just know” workplace norms that he doesn’t.

Challenge: Ensuring newcomers understand employment rights and obligations without stigma.

Legal/Policy Notes:

• Employment Standards Act (BC) – minimum standards must be explained and applied fairly.
• Human Rights Code – failure to ensure equal access to information may lead to indirect discrimination.
• Privacy Law (PIPA) – HR must be cautious in how employee questions are documented and handled.

Discussion Questions:

1. ❓How can HR normalize conversations about rights and benefits so newcomers don’t feel embarrassed to ask?
2. ❓Should onboarding materials be adapted for newcomers (e.g., simplified guides, multilingual resources)?
3. ❓How might HR prevent indirect discrimination through “unwritten rules” in the workplace?
4. ❓Could unequal access to employment law knowledge create compliance risks for the company?

Hint for Participants: Think about tools like orientation sessions on Canadian workplace laws, buddy systems, and anonymous Q&A channels.