Study topic
Rights and freedoms in Canada
The first chapter of Discover Canada covers what it means to live in a free and democratic society. Know both the rights you hold and the responsibilities you take on.
Key facts to remember
- ◆ The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982) guarantees fundamental freedoms, democratic rights, legal rights, and equality rights.
- ◆ Voting and running for office are democratic rights granted to Canadian citizens.
- ◆ Responsibilities include obeying Canadian laws, paying taxes, serving on a jury when called, and voting in elections.
- ◆ Canada's legal system has roots in both English common law (most provinces) and French civil law (Quebec).
- ◆ Equality rights protect every individual from discrimination based on race, national origin, colour, religion, sex, age, or disability.
Aboriginal peoples' rights are also protected under the Constitution Act, 1982.