Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy Training Update

The OPSEU/SEFPO Member Equity Unit hosted training under the union’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP) from November 3-7, 2025.  Members from across OPSEU/SEFPO’s 7 regions participated.  It was held at the OPSEU/SEFPO Membership Centre on 155 Lesmill Road in Toronto.The purpose of this week-long training was to build and strengthen the knowledge and capacity of member advisors and investigators to advance equity in the union. This training was also designed to establish a network of support that OPSEU/SEFPO members can use when accessing the HDPP.Under the policy, advisors provide support and guidance to complainants and respondents during the complaint resolution process. Investigators conduct investigations by gathering all relevant evidence, interview witnesses, and review documents to determine the outcome of a complaint and provide recommendations on how to resolve the dispute.  Where applicable, advisors and investigators could also lead mediations as another way of resolving complaints filed under the policy.During this training week, members were trained on the following:

• the fundamentals on the roles of advisors and investigators,
• understanding of the Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy and the accompanying Procedural Guide
• understanding conflict resolution and mediation processes
• overview of the Ontario Human Rights Code
• process of filing a complaint and providing supports to the parties during the complaint process
• how to conduct impartial investigations and produce investigation reports.

This group of newly trained member advisors and investigators will work to support members and collaborate with the Member Equity Unit throughout the various stages of the complaint resolution process.Click here for an updated list of member advisors and investigators from across all OPSEU/SEFPO’s 7 regions.In addition, a review of the existing policy and the procedures will take place very soon.