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Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms, your fundamental freedoms as a Canadian, and the responsibilities that come with citizenship.
What You'll Learn
- The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982)
- The four fundamental freedoms and democratic rights
- Mobility rights, legal rights, and equality rights
- Responsibilities of citizens including jury duty, voting, and obeying the law
Key Facts Covered
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is part of the Constitution Act, 1982. It protects fundamental freedoms (expression, religion, association, assembly), democratic rights (the right to vote), mobility rights, legal rights, and equality rights. The scope differs by provision: voting rights are for citizens, while some mobility rights extend to permanent residents.
Equality Rights
Section 15 of the Charter guarantees equal protection under the law without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age, or mental or physical disability. This is one of the most significant constitutional protections in Canada.
Aboriginal Rights
The Constitution Act, 1982 recognizes and affirms existing Aboriginal and treaty rights. Sections 25 and 35 protect these rights, which include rights arising from the Royal Proclamation of 1763 and from land claims agreements.
Responsibilities of Citizens
Citizenship comes with responsibilities: obeying Canadian laws, serving on a jury if called, voting in elections, helping others in the community, caring for and protecting the environment, and respecting the rights and freedoms of others.
Practice Rights and Responsibilities Questions
All 66 questions in this chapter include an explanation and a source link. Practise, then review your mistakes.