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Merit Increases and Maternity Leave: What Employers Need to Know
A recent arbitration decision explores whether employers can deny or delay merit increases for employees returning from maternity leave. This post breaks down the ruling and explains how unionized and non-union employers should approach performance reviews and pay increases without triggering human rights risk.

Rika Sawatsky
Jan 63 min read


When Legal Strategy Crosses the Line: Family Status Accommodation Lessons from Marks v PepsiCo Canada
In Marks v PepsiCo Canada, a single mother’s human rights claim turned into a retraumatizing ordeal when her employer called her abusive ex as a surprise witness. This case highlights the urgent need for a trauma- and violence-informed approach to human rights litigation.

Rika Sawatsky
Oct 22, 20253 min read


Why Workplace Pregnancy Loss Policies Must Include Abortion
Many workplace pregnancy loss policies reference miscarriage and stillbirth but leave out abortion. This omission creates stigma, confusion, and harm. Here’s why inclusive policies matter—and how employers can take action.

Rika Sawatsky
Sep 29, 20252 min read


Breast/Chestfeeding at Work: What Employers and HR Need to Know
Supporting employees who breastfeed or chestfeed isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a key part of building inclusive, equitable workplaces. This post breaks down the legal landscape in Canada, best practices for HR, and practical steps employers can take to create truly breast/chestfeeding-friendly environments.

Rika Sawatsky
Aug 6, 20253 min read


Return-to-Office (RTO) Mandates Are Quietly Widening the Gender Gap
Return-to-office mandates are widening the gender gap by disproportionately impacting working mothers who face childcare challenges and wage penalties. Without thoughtful flexibility and ongoing monitoring, these policies risk deepening workplace inequities. Learn why flexibility is essential and how employers can assess and mitigate the impact of RTO mandates on gender equity.

Rika Sawatsky
Jul 21, 20252 min read


Parental Leave 101
The theme for this week's videos was parental leave, including notice, accommodation, and reinstatement entitlements + employer obligations.

Rika Sawatsky
Mar 21, 20251 min read


Setting up parental leave to take down the motherhood penalty
I'm doing a daily series of posts on LinkedIn that applies a feminist lens to employment law tips for employers. This week: parental leave.

Rika Sawatsky
Mar 7, 20251 min read
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