Lesson 2: Rights and Responsibilities in a Democracy

Canada’s Democracy Canada is a representative democracy. Representation is based on geographical areas known as constituencies or electoral districts. Representatives are selected through elections. All citizens have guaranteed rights and freedoms.

What is a ‘right’? A right is a freedom that is protected. Rights are not usually just provided, they are usually fought for and claimed. Examples: the right to be friends with anyone you chose, the right to express yourself

Rights and Freedoms in Canada In Canada, citizens’ rights and freedoms are protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Canadian Charter is a part of the Constitution Act, signed by Queen Elizabeth in 1982.

Seven Sections of the Charter The Canadian Charter contains seven sections that define our rights as Canadians: fundamental rights democratic rights mobility rights legal rights equality rights official languages of Canada minority language education rights

Fundamental Freedoms freedom of conscience freedom of religion freedom of thought freedom of belief freedom of expression freedom of the press

Democratic Rights Democratic rights include the right for every Canadian citizen, 18 years and older, to vote in an election and to be a candidate in an election It also includes the requirement that governments hold elections at least every five years.

The Right to Vote The right to vote has not always been available to everyone. It has been fought for by various groups throughout our history. At the beginning only men who owned property could vote. After much campaigning and debate, women received the right to vote provincially in 1917 and federally in 1918. The last of the limits for various ethnic groups were finally removed by 1960.

What is a ‘responsibility’? A responsibility is a duty or obligation. Example: your right to an education comes with the responsibility to show up to school on time and be prepared.

Responsibilities in a Democracy It is the responsibility of all Canadians to respect and follow the rules set out by the Constitution. The right to vote comes with the responsibility to vote and to make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts How important is it that individuals are responsible members of society? Will you vote when you turn 18? Should voters lose their right to vote if they choose to skip an election?