What are equality rights designed to protect against in Canada?

Equality rights in Canada are designed to protect individuals from discrimination in various forms, which includes but is not limited to race, religion, gender, age, and disability. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, specifically Section 15, establishes the principle that every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination.

The correct answer reflects the broad application of equality rights across different dimensions of identity and experience. This comprehensive protection is vital in promoting a society where individuals can participate fully and equally without fear of prejudice or bias.

In contrast, the other options are limited in scope. For instance, addressing only age or race excludes many other potential forms of discrimination that might arise, thereby not adhering to the intent of equality rights in Canadian law. Similarly, focusing solely on employment does not cover the full spectrum of situations where individuals might face discrimination, including access to services, housing, and education. The emphasis of equality rights is on protecting against discrimination in all settings, making the concept of universal protection fundamental to ensuring fairness and justice in Canadian society.