On a recent Air Canada flight from Toronto to Atlanta, a passenger filed a complaint with respect to a flight attendant wearing a pin shaped in the country of Israel, but in Palestinian colors. In response, Air Canada issued a statement that it would be reviewing the matter and will address the situation with the employee. Moreover, it confirmed that Air Canada had policies for uniform staff that covers which pins and symbols are permissible to wear while on duty.
How Do Workplace Policies Affect What Employees Can Say or Wear?
The degree in which an employee can freely express their political views in the workplace is subject to an employer’s policies and codes of conduct. Balancing an employee’s freedom of expression and the risks with respect to an employer’s reputation are crucial for employers to consider in crafting effective codes of conduct and workplace policies. In evaluating the employee’s conduct, an employer should consider factors such as the nature and content of the expression, whether the expression can be associated with the employer, the role of the employee, and whether the employee’s actions would affect the reputation of the employer. Expressions that may be considered hate speech or harassment based on protected grounds under the relevant human rights legislation may be more likely to be viewed as grounds for termination.
While an employee has the freedom to voice their political views, an employee must take into consideration the employer’s code of conduct and relevant policies that may restrict certain political expressions while employed at the company. If an employer finds that the employee’s expressions are in violation of the employer’s policies and code of conduct, it is possible that an employer may terminate the employee for expressing their political views. As such, it is best for employees to review their employer’s relevant code of conduct and policies to minimize negative impacts on an employee’s livelihood and the employer’s business.
How can Whitten & Lublin help?
If your employer has terminated you due to expressing political opinions, it is possible that you may have a claim for wrongful dismissal. Contact us for further information regarding your entitlements online or by phone at (416) 640 2667.
Author – Abby Leung
Can employees express political views at work?
Yes, employees generally have the right to express political views, but this right may be limited by workplace policies and codes of conduct.
Can employers restrict political expression in the workplace?
Yes, employers can set reasonable rules about political views at work to protect their reputation, workplace harmony, and business interests.
Are employees allowed to wear political symbols at work?
It depends on the employer’s uniform and conduct policies. Some workplaces restrict pins, symbols, or clothing that may be controversial.
When can political expression lead to discipline or termination?
An employee may face discipline if their expression violates company policies, harms the employer’s reputation, or involves harassment or hate speech.
Is being fired for political expression wrongful dismissal?
It may be. If the termination is unfair or violates employment law, the employee may have a wrongful dismissal claim.
