Maria Johannes is a farmworker. She is a member of a farmworker’s union. When she falls pregnant her employer tells her to leave and he employs someone else in her place. Maria is angry and she discusses this with other women on the farm. Many of the women feel angry because they only get work when it suits the farmer. They all agree that the farmer’s actions are unfair and they decide to take further steps.

What Are Their Rights?

The Constitution and the Employment Equity Act (EEA) say there can be no discrimination on grounds of gender, sex and pregnancy. In this case Maria Johannes and the other female workers have been discriminated against. The commission on gender equality will protect people (men and women) who complain that they have been discriminated against because of their gender or sex.

What Can You Do?

You can help Maria Johannes and the other female workers make a complaint to the commission on gender equality.

(See: Making a complaint to the CGE)