The Commission's current intake guidance identifies Aboriginal origin as a protected characteristic and explains that it includes First Nations, Métis, Inuit, Mi'kmaw and L'nu ancestry. Jurisdiction must still be checked because some Indigenous matters can engage federal law or other legal regimes.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
Protected origin
The provincial Act protects against discrimination connected to Aboriginal origin in areas covered by the Act. Race, colour, ethnic origin or other characteristics may also be relevant to particular facts.
Mi'kmaw and L'nu identity
The Commission specifically recognizes Mi'kmaw and L'nu within its explanation of Aboriginal origin. Legal analysis should respect the person's actual identity and avoid collapsing distinct Indigenous peoples into a generic category.
Provincial and federal jurisdiction
Some disputes involving First Nations governments, federal statutes or federally regulated entities may fall within federal human-rights jurisdiction. The identity of the respondent and source of the challenged action are important.
Evidence and overlapping rights
A matter may involve more than one protected characteristic or legal framework. The provincial Human Rights Act, Canadian Human Rights Act, constitutional rights and Indigenous rights are not interchangeable processes.
Official sources
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — Inquiry Form and intake criteria
- Nova Scotia Legislature — Human Rights Act
- Government of Canada — about human rights complaints
- Canadian Human Rights Commission — jurisdiction