

A transgender woman has been filed a complaint to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario against a hair removal spa in Windsor.

Jason Carruthers, President and CEO of Mad Wax Windsor Camp Inc. on Walker Rd., was served with a complaint alleging a transgender woman was denied services based on her gender identity and gender expression.

The complainant, who wishes to remain anonymous, is seeking $50,000 compensation for 'immense harm to her dignity.'

Carruthers's lawyer Ray Colautti says it was explained to the complainant when she called the business on March 17, 2018 that the only person available to do the waxing service was a practicing Muslim woman who refrains from physical contact with males outside of her family.

In the application to the tribunal, the complainant states she had called 'to inquire about an appointment for leg waxing services.'

"The problem is that there was not a trained staff member available to perform the services that this person was requesting and that was explained to her in some detail," says Colautti.

Colautti says Mad Wax Windsor welcomes all clients, regardless of sex, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation.

"It also respects its own staff and religious beliefs and feelings of safety and dignity in regards to the right in not performing waxing services that they don't feel comfortable providing."

Colautti says his client is requesting the complaint be dismissed.

AM800 news spoke to the complainant who referred us to her lawyer. Her lawyer has not returned our call.