The Charter of Rights and Freedoms The Constitution Act, 1982 The Charter of Rights and Freedoms

The BNA Act Before 1982, Canada’s constitution (a special document that contains all the rules and powers of the government) was the British North America Act. The BNA Act was created in 1867 when Canada was formed.

The BNA Act All the details of how the government was organized were outlined in this important document. However, Canadians did not have the power to change the BNA Act without asking permission of the British government.

The Constitution Act, 1982 In 1982, under the government of Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau, Canada developed a new constitution.

The Constitution Act, 1982 It was signed and made official on April 17, 1982 by Queen Elizabeth II. The Constitution Act of 1982 gave Canadian the power to make changes to our government without the permission of the British government.

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms Inside the Constitution Act of 1982, there is an important section call the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms or the Charter for short.

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms The Charter lists certain fundamental rights for Canadians that cannot be interfered with or taken away by the government. The Charter’s purpose is to protect Canadians from unfair government actions.

Our Rights and Freedoms The right to vote. The right to run for elected office. The right to have freedom of speech. The right to freedom of religion.

Our Rights and Freedoms The right of freedom of association. The right of movement (mobility). The right to have a fair trial. The right to be treated equally under the law.

Video Clips Pierre Trudeau: Charter of Rights and Freedoms http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngYEcae6ndE&feature=related Know Your Rights: Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0df_9_LUDU Rights and Responsibilities http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DA6QAdKOmtA&feature=related

Becoming a Canadian Citizen Canada is made up of immigrants from all over the world. Many immigrants choose to become Canadian citizens.

Becoming a Canadian Citizen To become a Canadian citizen: People must have lived in Canada 3 out of 4 years, that is be a legal permanent resident. Must be 18 years old or be sponsored by a parent / guardian.

Becoming a Canadian Citizen They must know enough English or French to understand people and communicate. They must learn/know about Canada. They must write a citizenship test.

Who cannot become a Canadian citizen In general, you cannot become a Canadian citizen if: In the past four years, you were in prison, on parole or on probation for a year or more. You were convicted of an indictable offence or crime, or an offence under the Citizenship Act in the three years preceding your application. y

Who cannot become a Canadian citizen You are currently charged with an indictable offence or crime, or an offence under the Citizenship Act. You are under a removal order (instructed by Canadian officials to leave Canada).

Who cannot become a Canadian citizen You are under investigation for, are charged with, or have been convicted of a war crime or a crime against humanity. Your Canadian citizenship has been taken away (revoked) in the past five years.

The Oath of Citizenship I, _________ swear that I will be faithful and bear allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, her Heirs and Successors, according to the law and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada and fulfill my duties as a Canadian citizen.

The Oath of Citizenship http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXPhKGh83qQ