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Women’s Voting Rights
Women in Canada first gained the right to vote in provincial elections in 1916 and in federal elections 2 years later, but this was mainly for white women. Indigenous women and other marginalized groups faced restrictions, as they were not allowed to vote until 1960 because they were considered non-citizens. Activists like Nellie McClung and Emily Murphy played key roles in pushing for these rights. The inclusion of all women in the voting process was a step toward gender equality in Canada. -
Persons Case
The Famous Five—Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Henrietta Muir Edwards, and Louise McKinney—worked hard to have women legally recognized as "persons" in Canada. In 1928, they brought their case to the Supreme Court, which ruled against them, saying women were not considered persons. However, in 1929, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council changed that decision, allowing women to hold public office. This was an important victory for gender equality in Canada. -
Indian Act Revisions of 1951
Revisions to the Indian Act in 1951 aimed to improve the rights of Indigenous peoples by removing some harsh rules, like banning cultural practices and requiring permission to leave their communities. However, many unfair aspects stayed in place, such as unequal rights for women and limits on self-governance. These ongoing issues led to debates about Indigenous rights and sovereignty, showing the continued struggle for real equality and recognition within Canadian society. -
Canadian Bill of Rights
Introduced by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, the Bill of Rights was the first federal law to protect human rights and basic freedoms. It included rights like life, safety, freedom of speech, and protection against discrimination based on race, religion, etc.. While it established important protections, it was not part of the Constitution, which limited its effectiveness in Canada. This showed the need for stronger legal protections to ensure that all Canadians' rights are upheld in the future. -
Indigenous Canadians’ Voting Rights
In 1960, a major milestone was reached when Indigenous peoples in Canada were allowed to vote in federal elections without having to give up their Indian status. This important change was a key step toward including Indigenous voices in politics. It enabled these communities to take part fully in the democratic process, recognizing their rights as Canadian citizens and aiming to address past injustices while raising awareness of Indigenous issues in the world. -
Ontario Human Rights Code
The Ontario Human Rights Code was one of the first laws in Canada to tackle discrimination and support human rights in the province. It set an example for other provinces and territories, showcasing the importance of treating everyone equally and with respect. This code aimed to protect the rights of all individuals, ensuring that people could live and work free from discrimination. Its influence helped shape a more inclusive society, making sure that everyone’s rights are recognized and upheld. -
Immigration Act of 1967
The Immigration Act of 1967 introduced a new point system in Canada to assess immigrants. Instead of deciding based on nationality, this system evaluated applicants based on skills, education, work experience, and language ability. Each candidate could earn points in these areas, helping to create a fairer process. The goal was to attract immigrants who could contribute to Canada’s economy and society. This change made Canada more open, inclusive, and diverse. -
Canadian Official Languages Act
This act recognizes English and French as Canada’s official languages, ensuring all Canadians can access government services in both. It promotes bilingualism, allowing people to use either language in official settings. The act protects the rights of English and French speakers, ensuring their full participation in society. This recognition was an important step in addressing the impacts of colonization and acknowledging the diverse linguistic heritage that shapes Canada’s identity. -
Royal Commission on the Status of Women
The Royal Commission on the Status of Women in Canada was established in 1970 to look into the challenges women faced in society. It aimed to examine issues like employment, education, health care, and family life. The commission gathered information from across the country, hearing from many women about their experiences. Its report made important recommendations to help raise awareness about gender issues and lead to changes in laws and policies, working toward a fairer society. -
Canadian Human Rights Act
This act is a law passed by the Parliament of Canada in 1977. Its main goal is to provide equal opportunities for individuals who may face discrimination. The act protects people from unfair treatment based on reasons such as race, gender, age, or disability. It aims to promote fairness and respect for everyone, ensuring that all Canadians have the same rights and chances in society. By addressing these issues, the act seeks to create a more inclusive and just environment for all Canadians. -
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was created in 1982 as part of Canada’s Constitution. It protects individual rights and freedoms, like freedom of expression and the right to a fair trial. Before the Charter, rights were mainly protected by laws that could change. The Charter makes rights stronger and harder to change. It has helped many people by ensuring equality and justice in Canada. The Charter also reflects Canada’s values of diversity and respect for all. -
Big M Drug Mart Ltd. v. Canada
Big M Drug Mart Ltd. v. Canada is a 1985 Supreme Court case about freedom of religion. The case involved a law that forced stores to close on Sundays, which affected Big M Drug Mart. The store argued that this law violated its rights to religious freedom and commerce. The Supreme Court agreed, stating that the law was unconstitutional because it limited individual rights. This case was important because it reinforced the idea that laws should not restrict personal freedoms. -
Canadian Employment Equity Act
The Employment Equity Act of Canada aims to improve job opportunities for people who face barriers in the workplace, such as women, people with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, and visible minorities. It requires employers in the federal sector to create fair hiring practices and promote diversity. The Act encourages companies to identify and remove obstacles that prevent these groups from being hired or promoted. -
R. v. Oakes
R v. Oakes is a 1986 Supreme Court case involving David Oakes, who was caught with drugs. The law said that if someone had certain drugs, they were automatically guilty unless they proved otherwise. Oakes argued this was unfair and violated his rights. The Supreme Court agreed, saying the law took away the presumption of innocence. They created the "Oakes test" to help decide if laws that limit rights are acceptable. This case is important for protecting individual rights under the Charter. -
Abortion Rights (R. v. Morgentaler)
R v. Morgentaler is a Supreme Court case about abortion rights in Canada. Dr. Henry Morgentaler challenged a law that made abortion illegal unless approved by a hospital committee. He argued this law violated women’s rights to make choices about their bodies. The Supreme Court agreed, saying the law was unconstitutional and limited women's freedom. This ruling made abortion legal in Canada and established that women have the right to make decisions about their own health and reproductive choices -
Delgamuukw v. British Columbia
In Delgamuukw v. British Columbia, the Supreme Court affirmed Indigenous land rights, supporting the Gitxsan and Wet'suwet'en nations' claims to traditional lands. This decision was key in recognizing these rights and promoting reconciliation, highlighting the importance of respecting Indigenous voices in land discussions and improving relations between Indigenous communities and governments. -
Vriend v. Alberta
In Vriend v. Alberta, Delwin Vriend was fired for being gay, but Alberta's Human Rights Act didn't protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation. His complaint was dismissed, leading him to take the case to court. In 1998, the Supreme Court ruled that excluding sexual orientation from the Act was unconstitutional. This landmark decision affirmed LGBTQ+ rights and resulted in legal changes in Alberta, ensuring protection against discrimination for sexual orientation. -
R. v. Marshall
In 1993, a Mi'kmaq man named Donald Marshall Jr. was charged for fishing eels without a license. He argued that his actions were protected under a treaty from 1760, which granted Mi'kmaq people the right to fish. The Supreme Court of Canada ultimately agreed, ruling that the treaty allowed him to fish for food without a license. This decision confirmed the rights of Indigenous peoples to fish according to their treaties, reinforcing the importance of agreements and Indigenous self-governance. -
Same-Sex Marriage
The legalization of same-sex marriage in Canada happened after many years of court cases and changes in public opinion. Starting in the late 1990s, several court decisions, including one in Ontario in 2003, said it was wrong to deny marriage to same-sex couples. As more people supported this change, the Civil Marriage Act was passed in July 2005, officially making same-sex marriage legal across the country. This was an important step for LGBTQ+ rights, showing that all should be treated equally. -
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Truth and Reconciliation Commission
In 2008, The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was created to address the legacy of residential schools that took Indigenous children from their families. Over seven years, it gathered survivor testimonies about abuse and loss of identity. In 2015, the TRC released a report with 94 calls to action for healing and reconciliation, urging governments to acknowledge past harms and make changes in education, justice, and health to promote understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.