The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

HOW DOES THE CHARTER PROTECT INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS? Focus question #1

Overview The Charter of Rights is part of the constitution The Charter created constitutional protections for individual rights and freedoms Canadians can now challenge in court laws that restrict their rights (ex: Keegstra case)

“In a free and democratic society, it is important that citizens know exactly what their rights and freedoms are, and where to turn for help and advice in the event that those freedoms are denied or rights infringed upon. […] the only way to provide equal protection to everyone is to enshrine those basic rights and freedoms in the constitution. We have a Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms that recognizes certain rights for all of us, wherever we may live in Canada” Jean Chretien “The Charter of Rights and Freedoms: A Guide for Canadians” Ottawa 1982

Your Individual Rights Fundamental freedoms – Freedom to express your opinions – Freedom to choose your own religion – Freedom to organize peaceful meetings and demonstrations – Freedom to associate with any person or group

Democratic Rights* – Right to vote for members of the House of Commons and of provincial legislatures – Right to vote for a new government at least every five years

Mobility Rights – Right to move anywhere within Canada and to earn a living there – Right to enter, say in, or leave Canada*

Legal Rights – Right to be free of imprisonment, search and seizure without reasons backed by law and evidence – Right to a fair and quick public trial by an impartial court that assumes that you are innocent until proven guilty

Equality rights – Right to be free of discrimination because of race, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, age, or mental or physical disability

What responsibilities do you believe individuals have because of these rights?