MEDICINE HAT — A same-sex couple says they're pleased that the Alberta Human Rights Commission has referred their lengthy discrimination case to a tribunal.
Paul Hemsing and Michael Gray allege the City of Medicine Hat discriminated against them by imposing on their home hair salon restrictions that they say other businesses didn't have to follow.
The couple has argued they were also harassed by officers constantly attending the salon in response to complaints from neighbours.
Lawyers for the city have denied discrimination and say it received numerous complaints about an excessive number of vehicles parking near the home salon.
The couple's human rights complaint was dismissed by the commission's director, but the acting chief has overturned the order so more evidence on the allegations can be heard.
Hemsing, who now lives with his husband in Saskatoon, says it has been a long and stressful four years but they hope justice is served.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 12, 2025.
The Canadian Press
