The BHA has today submitted its response to the team at the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) who are drafting guidance documents to accompany the Equality Act. The non-statutory guidance will not be legally binding but aims to explain the effects of the new Act so that people can understand how the Act relates to them in different circumstances, such as in the workplace. The guidance explains the definitions of discrimination and protected characteristics and gives examples to illustrate when various actions would be against the law.
Pepper Harow, BHA Campaigns Officer, said, ‘As a key stakeholder with the EHRC, we have been involved with the guidance from its early stages and we now welcome the opportunity to comment on the guidance at the drafting stage along with other organisations working in the field of equalities. We have done extensive work regarding equality for individuals of all religions or beliefs and on the Equality Act itself.
‘In general, the guidance is a fair reflection of the law. What we’ve asked for is more clear examples to show exactly when discrimination against humanists and gay and lesbian people by religious organisations and individuals is and is not lawful. This clarification is really important, not least so that people are aware of their rights under the law.’
Notes
For further comment or information, please contact Pepper Harow on 020 7462 4992.
The British Humanist Association (BHA) is the national charity representing the interests of the large and growing population of ethically concerned, non-religious people living in the UK.