Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA) (plea.org) is hosting three free legal advice projects:
1. The Shift Project offers up to 4 hours of free legal advice for individuals who have suffered workplace sexual harassment at a Saskatchewan workplace. The Shift Project is also available to individuals who are unsure if what they experienced is workplace sexual harassment. For further information visit: https://shift.plea.org
Sexual harassment in the workplace affects people of all genders, ages and workplaces. The impact of sexual harassment can diminish a person's mental health, productivity and overall wellbeing. The Shift project provides an opportunity for people to meet with a lawyer and discuss their legal options as to how to deal with the issue. This may include remedies through Occupational Health and Safety, Unions, Human Rights, Workers' Compensation or through the civil and/or criminal courts.
PLEA has been actively working towards greater public awareness of the Shift Project through a social media marketing campaign.
2. Another support, which may be of assistance either to individuals who have suffered workplace sexual harassment or employers, is the Enough Already coalition. Through support and education, Enough Already increases awareness about sexual harassment in Saskatchewan workplaces with the goal of reducing and preventing incidences of sexual harassment. For further information see: https://enoughalreadysk.ca.
3. The Listen Project offers up to 4 hours of free legal advice for individuals who have suffered sexual violence that occurred within Saskatchewan. The Listen Project is also available to individuals who are unsure whether what they experienced is sexual violence. For further information visit: https://listen.plea.org
Lawyers are invited to take the training to become ‘experts’ in these areas of law and become ‘roster lawyers’ who will accept referrals. They are paid the existing legal aid rates and expenses.
“I can say from my experience that it is a very timely and awesome program very much needed and the support from P.L.E.A. and Hilary is an honour to be receiving. I would very much encourage lawyers, particularly those who experience sexual discrimination in our society, to come on board and be part of these historic projects, particularly in the context of the ‘Me Too’, ‘Time’s Up’ social justice movements. If you are in a different Province, I would also encourage you to explore such and if there isn’t something, work with your Provincial equivalents to get them established.” Larry Kowalchuk
The volume of referrals is increasing and more lawyers on board would be most welcome and appreciated. If you work with and/or know of community groups/unions and NGO’s that might be interested in promoting these projects, contact Hilary. There is a social media campaign, as well as posters, leaflets and cards that are available free for distribution. If interested in a presentation about these projects, please ask.
Hillary Paterson, Legal Program Coordinator with The Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan.
Larry Kowalchuk, Roster Lawyer and Private Practice Human Rights Lawyer in Saskatoon.