The B.C. Human Rights Tribunal has ordered former Chilliwack school trustee Barry Neufeld to pay $750,000 for violating the Human Rights Code. This ruling follows Neufeld’s public expressions of hate speech and discrimination against 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
Background of the Case
The tribunal’s decision highlighted that Neufeld propagated negative stereotypes about LGBTQ individuals, particularly targeting transgender people. His comments stood in stark contrast to the dignity of these groups and often displayed clear signs of hate.
Neufeld was known for his vocal opposition to the B.C. government’s 2017 mandate. This directive called for school boards to update their codes of conduct to tackle bullying based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI).
Impact on LGBTQ Educators
For five years, Neufeld’s rhetoric resulted in a toxic work environment for 2SLGBTQ+ teachers within the Chilliwack School District. He publicly linked LGBTQ educators to severe accusations of child abuse, adversely affecting their professional lives.
- The complaint was lodged by the Chilliwack Teachers’ Association and B.C. Teachers’ Federation (BCTF).
- Testimonies revealed that many educators felt unsafe disclosing their sexual orientation.
- One teacher recounted how Neufeld’s comments forced them to reconsider their teaching career.
Details of the Tribunal’s Decision
The tribunal determined that six of Neufeld’s publications were likely to incite hatred based on gender identity or sexual orientation. In total, over 20 of his statements reflected discrimination against 2SLGBTQ+ people.
The tribunal awarded $750,000 as compensation for the emotional harm suffered by LGBTQ teachers from 2017 to 2022. This amount translates to individual compensation ranging from approximately $4,600 to $16,667 for affected educators. The tribunal emphasized that this award aims to address the harm caused rather than serve as a punitive measure.
Outcomes and Reactions
The B.C. Teachers’ Federation characterized the tribunal’s ruling as a significant victory for 2SLGBTQ+ rights. BCTF president Carole Gordon stated that hateful and discriminatory language has no place in public education.
Additionally, Neufeld faced a separate ruling requiring him to pay $10,000 in punitive costs for improper conduct during the complaint process. The tribunal criticized his blatant disrespect for its rules, noting that he recorded a conference call without authorization and shared sensitive information online.
This case underscores the necessity of maintaining inclusion and respect within educational settings in British Columbia. The tribunal’s decisive actions reflect a commitment to addressing discrimination and promoting a safe environment for all educators and students.
