Slide Deck 4: Rights and Responsibilities in a Democracy

What is an example of a right you have? What is a RIGHT? What is an example of a right you have?

Rights A right is a freedom that is protected or something you are allowed to have or receive Rights are usually fought for and demanded, and require effort All citizens living in a democracy have certain rights Examples: the right to express yourself, freedom of religion

Were you successful? If so, how? Have you ever had to argue for a privilege or opportunity at home or in school? Were you successful? If so, how?

Rights and Freedoms in Canada Our rights and freedoms are protected at both the provincial and national level by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, a part of the Canadian Constitution

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms The Charter has seven categories that define our rights as Canadians: Fundamental freedoms Democratic rights Mobility rights Legal rights Equality rights Official languages of Canada Minority language education rights

Fundamental Freedoms You have the freedom to pray & worship in your own way, or not to pray or worship at all You have the freedom to shape your own opinions You have the freedom to express your opinions (within limits) The media is free to report on anything in Canada You can hold rallies to express your disagreements You can choose your own friends

Democratic Rights If you are a citizen and 18 years old, you can… vote in elections compete for the job of a politician The rule that governments must have elections every five years or less The rule that elected governments must meet at least once every year

Mobility Rights You can live and work in any province or territory in Canada You can leave and come back to Canada when you want

Legal Rights If you are arrested, you must be told of your option to see a lawyer If needed, you must be able to go to court in an amount of time that is considered fair You must be considered innocent until proven guilty

Equality Rights You cannot be treated unfairly for many reasons. This includes your race, background, religion, gender, age, or mental or physical ability

Official Languages of Canada You can talk or write to the federal government in English or French. This is also the case for some provincial governments, like in Ontario

Minority Language Education Rights You can learn in English or French based on your language

What is a responsibility? What are some examples of responsibilities you have?

Responsibilities in a Democracy A responsibility is a duty, obligation or an expectation of how you should act. It is the responsibility of all Canadians to respect and follow the rules outlined in the Constitution The right to vote comes with the responsibility to cast a ballot and to make an informed decision

Final Thoughts How important is it that individuals are responsible members of society? Which rights and responsibilities do you think are most important and why? Why are the principles of equality and diversity important? What is the difference between equity, equality and justice? Can you provide examples?