Ontario Human Rights Tribunal Rules Vegans are not a Creed
The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) has ruled that vegans do not qualify as a creed under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Lawyers for Adam Knauff will appeal the decision.
The Background:
This case involves a firefighter, Adam Knauff. Mr Knauff argued his employer did not accommodate his vegan dietary needs. Mr Knauff argued that this was discrimination based on creed.
Legal Criteria for Creed:
To qualify as a creed, a belief must:
1. Be deeply held and sincere.
2. Be integral to the person’s identity and fulfillment.
3. Address fundamental questions of human existence.
4. Constitute a comprehensive belief system guiding conduct.
5. Have some connection to a community with shared beliefs.
The Tribunal's Findings:
The HRTO agreed that veganism satisfies the first two criteria but said that Mr Knauff had not clearly shown that veganism addresses "ultimate questions of human existence" or the existence of a higher order or creator.
Ethical Vegan Argument:
Evidence was provided showing that veganism does indeed tackle questions about human existence, including commenting on ethics, interconnectedness with other beings, and veganism being a higher moral stance against violence and suffering.
International Perspective:
Veganism is recognised and protected to varying extents internationally, including under the European Convention on Human Rights. This clearly indicates a growing trend towards acknowledging ethical veganism's importance in discussions about human rights and animal protection.
Implications of the Decision:
This controversial ruling is not aligned with the international right to freedom of conscience and limits the scope of protection guaranteed for all people in all places. It potentially hinders ethical and social progress involving our duties to other animals. It reflects a narrow interpretation of what constitutes a creed, leaving ethical vegans vulnerable to discrimination.
The decision that veganism does not meet the necessary criteria for creed protection under the Human Rights Code will be appealed by layers for Mr Knauff.