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Steinbach, Man.
Precedent-setting case


A Manitoba human rights commissioner has upheld Steinbach (Man.) Bible College’s right to fire an employee on the basis of religious belief and association.

In 1991, SBC hired Esther Schroen as an accounting clerk on the assumption that she was of Mennonite faith. When it was learned two days later, that Schroen was in fact a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormon), she was fired. She filed suit with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission a few months later. A Commission investigator recommended against proceeding with a hearing; however the hearing commenced in January 1998.

The ruling from the independent adjudicator came on August 3, 1999 and dismissed the complaint against SBC. Since the firing was based entirely on Schroen’s religious belief and religious association, it was ruled discriminatory. However, the ruling also stated that because of the special nature of SBC as a faith-based institution, the requirement that staff be of Mennonite faith constituted a bona fide and reasonable requirement.

This ruling was seen as setting a precedent in allowing a religious institution to require all employees – rather than teachers alone – to sign a statement of faith.

From The Carillon, Winnipeg Free Press, and Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

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Last modified September 28, 1999.

© 1999 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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