Kate Shao

Kate Shao is an associate with a developing litigation practice focused on union-side labour and employment law. She has appeared before the Superior Court of Justice, Divisional Court, Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, Ontario Labour Relations Board, Grievance Settlement Board, and Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal, as well as private labour arbitrations. Kate regularly provides advice and counsel on matters of progressive discipline, discrimination, and collective agreement interpretation.
Kate is a passionate advocate for human rights and social justice. She has written and spoken on issues of race, gender, and identity. Kate is currently on JAYU’s Board of Directors and has previously served on the Board of Directors for the Chinese National Council (Toronto Chapter).
Prior to joining Paliare Roland in 2021, Kate worked in the City of Toronto’s Legal Services Division and Human Rights Office, and began her career at a leading labour and employment law firm.
Education
- University of Toronto, J.D., 2017
- Queen's University, B.A. (Hons.), 2014
Bar Admissions
- Ontario, 2018
Professional Affiliations
- The Advocates' Society
- Canadian Association of Labour Lawyers
Practice Areas
Awards and Honours
-
Best Lawyers in Canada - Ones to Watch - Labour and Employment Law
-
Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers (FACL) Omatsu Scholarship - 2015
Community Involvement
-
Board Member – JAYU
-
Former Board Member – Chinese Canadian National Council (Toronto Chapter)
Presentations
-
Presenter – Perspectives for Addressing the Rise in Anti-Asian Hate Crimes – Conference of Minority Transportation Officials – May 25, 2021
-
Presenter – Anti-Asian Racism and You: How to Respond at Work – Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre and the Nail Technicians’ Network – May 21, 2021
-
Presenter – Resilience Dialogue: Public Service and Racism – PROTECH – December 17, 2020
-
Presenter – Mental Health, Asian Canadian Identity, and the Legal Profession – University of Toronto Faculty of Law – Asia Law Society – November 12, 2020