constitution - a special set of laws that establish a framework of governance
Highest law of Canada
Constitutional protection from individual rights and freedoms that apply to the law and governance of Canada
Canadians may use the charter to support their rights in the court system.
There is justification in restricting some rights in order to maintain a free and democratic society
What organizations do we have that help to embrace the diversity of our nation?
What contribution does the group you selected make to Canadian Society?
Could this group have an impact on the students of this school? Explain.
a special set of laws that establish a framework of governance
the framework that explains how Canada is to be governed
Embedded in the Canadian Constitution
Highest law in Canada
Laws established prior to 1982 are still followed, but now there is constitutional protection for individuals
Individuals can challenge court laws when their rights are restricted. This is done through the judicial branch, who interpret the law and get rid of rights that restrict rights in an unjustified way
Rights can be restricted if Canada is not being maintained as a free and democratic society
Fundamental Freedoms
express your opinions
choose your own religion
organize peaceful demonstrations and meetings
be associated with any person or group
Democratic Rights
Right to vote
Right to vote for a new government at least every five years
Right to run for government
Mobility Rights
Move anywhere within Canada
Earn and income
Enter, stay in and leave Canada
Legal rights
Free from imprisonment
Free from being searched or taken into custody without reason
Innocent until proven guilty
Fair and quick public trial
Equality Rights
Free of discrimination because of
race
nationality
ethnicity
religion
gender
age
mental disability
physical disability
Assignment: Issues with the Canadian Charter of Rights Today
This assignment is in Workspace on the card titled Chapter 3 Assignments.
Think about the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. What issues do you feel are most important in today’s society?
Determining what issues are the most important to address by the government can be challenging because we all have our own opinions on what issues impact each of us personally, as well as a society.
Using the issue you thought about, respond to the following questions.
What issue or topic do you believe is the most important in today’s society?
What individual’s rights and freedoms are involved?
What views and perspectives are involved?
Why is this issue important to you?
Why is this issue important for others?
How does this issue affect quality of life and citizenship for all Canadians?
What action was taken on the issue already?
What actions should be taken to help rectify the issue?
The point of comparing the past and the present is not to judge the past, but to better understand the present.
~ Page 101 Issues for Canadians
Read page 100 - 103. In the chart found in your notes handout, compare how the Charter reflects our attitudes today compared to how it was reflected in the past.