Problem
Charlotte was born a male but started living as a female at age 29. Following her sex reassignment surgery, Charlotte experienced physical and emotional abuse in a relationship, and she was referred to an organization that assists battered women. Several years later, she responded to an advertisement for volunteers at a rape crisis centre. Being a woman was stipulated as a job qualification. During the training session, someone identified her as a person who had not always been a female, based solely on her appearance, and Charlotte was asked to leave. Charlotte filed an application with the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal.
• What is the alleged ground of discrimination?
• In your opinion, did the employer contravene the Code? Explain your answer.