A racial-discrimination concern follows the same Commission intake framework as other provincial human-rights matters, but the factual record should clearly identify the race or colour issue, the prohibited area and the events said to connect the treatment to that characteristic.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
Identify the protected characteristic and area
State whether the allegation concerns race, colour, ethnic or national origin, Aboriginal origin or another relevant characteristic, and identify the covered setting such as employment, housing or services.
Describe the alleged connection
Explain what happened and why race or another protected characteristic is said to have been a factor. Statements, differential treatment, patterns, comparators and surrounding circumstances may be relevant.
Use the Commission's Inquiry Form
The process begins with the official Inquiry Form. The Commission may seek more information, prepare a Complaint Form for signature or explain why the inquiry cannot be accepted.
Record dates and preserve evidence
The Commission normally applies a 12-month period from the last alleged discriminatory act, subject to its exceptional extension process. Preserve messages, documents, names of witnesses and a chronology rather than relying on memory alone.
Official sources
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — Inquiry Form and intake criteria
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — submitting an inquiry
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — making an inquiry
- Nova Scotia Legislature — Human Rights Act
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — intake reassessments and appeals
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — Board of Inquiry decisions