Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy

Sport Jiu-Jitsu Canadian Association National Federation (SJJCANF)

1. Purpose

The Sport Jiu-Jitsu Canadian Association National Federation (SJJCANF) is committed to providing a sport environment that is safe, inclusive, equitable, and respectful for all participants.

SJJCANF has zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, abuse, bullying, or maltreatment in any form. All individuals involved in SJJCANF activities have the right to participate in an environment that promotes dignity, mutual respect, and fairness.

This policy establishes standards of behaviour and procedures for preventing and addressing harassment and discrimination within SJJCANF programs, activities, and events.

2. Application of this Policy

This policy applies to all individuals involved with SJJCANF, including but not limited to:

  • Athletes

  • Coaches and instructors

  • Officials and referees

  • Volunteers

  • Staff

  • Board members

  • Contractors

  • Club representatives

  • Parents or guardians

  • Any participant in SJJCANF events or activities

This policy applies to conduct that occurs:

  • During SJJCANF training, competitions, meetings, or events

  • At SJJCANF-sanctioned activities or programs

  • During travel associated with SJJCANF activities

  • Online or through digital communication, where conduct affects the SJJCANF environment

3. Commitment to Respect and Inclusion

SJJCANF is committed to ensuring that participation in sport is free from discrimination and harassment based on any prohibited ground recognized under Canadian law, including:

  • Race

  • National or ethnic origin

  • Colour

  • Religion

  • Sex

  • Sexual orientation

  • Gender identity or gender expression

  • Age

  • Disability

  • Marital or family status

  • Language

  • Socio-economic status

  • Any other protected characteristic under applicable human rights legislation

All participants share responsibility for creating a respectful and inclusive sporting environment.

4. Definitions

Harassment

Harassment is any unwelcome conduct, comment, gesture, or behaviour that is insulting, intimidating, humiliating, malicious, degrading, or offensive and that a reasonable person would consider inappropriate.

Examples include but are not limited to:

  • Offensive jokes or slurs

  • Derogatory remarks or insults

  • Unwelcome comments about a person’s appearance or identity

  • Repeated unwanted contact or communication

  • Public humiliation

  • Intimidation or threats

Discrimination

Discrimination occurs when an individual is treated unfairly or denied opportunities because of a protected characteristic under Canadian human rights legislation.

Examples include:

  • Excluding individuals from participation based on identity or background

  • Unequal treatment in training, competition, or advancement

  • Biased decision-making affecting opportunities or recognition

Bullying

Bullying is repeated aggressive behaviour intended to intimidate, harm, or control another person. This can include verbal, physical, or social behaviour, including online harassment.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual comments, advances, gestures, or conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.

Examples include:

  • Sexual jokes or remarks

  • Unwanted physical contact

  • Requests for sexual favours

  • Sexually explicit messages or images

Abuse or Maltreatment

Abuse or maltreatment refers to behaviours that cause harm or potential harm to a participant, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, or neglect.

5. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited within SJJCANF activities and environments:

  • Harassment or discrimination of any kind

  • Bullying or intimidation

  • Sexual harassment or misconduct

  • Retaliation against individuals who report concerns

  • Abuse, neglect, or maltreatment of athletes or participants

  • Online harassment or cyberbullying

6. Duty to Report

All SJJCANF participants share responsibility for maintaining a safe and respectful environment.

Individuals who experience or witness harassment, discrimination, or abuse are encouraged to report the incident as soon as possible.

Failure to report serious misconduct may itself be considered a violation of this policy.

7. Reporting a Complaint

Complaints may be submitted to:

  • SJJCANF Safe Sport Officer

  • A designated SJJCANF board member

  • An independent reporting mechanism where applicable

Reports may be submitted in writing and should include:

  • The name(s) of the individuals involved

  • A description of the incident

  • Dates, times, and locations

  • Any witnesses or supporting evidence

Complaints will be handled confidentially and respectfully to the greatest extent possible.

8. Investigation Process

Upon receiving a complaint, SJJCANF will:

  1. Review the complaint and determine whether it falls within the scope of this policy

  2. Conduct a fair and impartial investigation where appropriate

  3. Provide all parties with an opportunity to respond

  4. Make findings based on the evidence available

  5. Determine appropriate corrective or disciplinary actions

Investigations will be conducted in a timely and respectful manner.

9. Disciplinary Measures

If a violation of this policy is confirmed, SJJCANF may impose disciplinary measures including but not limited to:

  • Verbal or written warning

  • Mandatory education or training

  • Suspension from participation

  • Removal from a position of authority

  • Expulsion from SJJCANF programs or membership

  • Referral to external authorities where required

Disciplinary decisions will be proportionate to the severity of the conduct.

10. Protection from Retaliation

SJJCANF strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who:

  • Reports harassment or discrimination

  • Participates in an investigation

  • Raises concerns in good faith

Retaliation may result in disciplinary action.

11. Confidentiality

All complaints and investigations will be treated with sensitivity and discretion.

Information will only be shared with those who need it to investigate and address the issue.

Absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where disclosure is necessary to ensure safety or comply with legal obligations.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with:

  • Canadian human rights legislation

  • Safe Sport principles

  • Best practices in national sport governance

Updates may be made to strengthen SJJCANF’s commitment to a safe and inclusive sport environment.

13. Acceptance

Participation in SJJCANF activities constitutes agreement to comply with this policy and uphold the values of respect, integrity, and inclusion.