Canadian human rights timeline

  • Woman’s Voting Rights

    The movement for women’s suffrage began in the late 19th century, with women advocating for the right to vote as a part of a broader fight for gender equality. In 1916 women won the right to vote in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. British Columbia and Ontario followed soon after in 1917. Federally, women gained the right to vote in 1918 but was limited to certain groups excluding indigenous women and women of certain ethnic backgrounds.
  • Persons Case

    The person’s case is a significant legal case in Canadian history that addressed women’s rights their status as “persons” under the law. The famous five Emily Murphy, Nelly, McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney, and Henrietta Edward’s, petitioned the Supreme Court of Canada to decide whether women were considered “persons” under the British North America act of 1867. Later on, this act of perseverance opened many doors for women all over Canada, even allowing for them to be appointed Senate
  • Indian Act Revisions of 1951

    The Indian revisions of 1951 refers to the amendments made to the constitution shortly after its adoption in 1950. The revised Indian act of 1951 in Canada removed some of the most restrictive aspects of the law but also also left its discrimination in place. Some key changes of the act were the introduction of the ninth schedule, restrictions to the right to property, and classifications on the enforcement of fundamental rights.
  • Indigenous Canadians Voting Rights

    Initially indigenous peoples were not allowed to vote in federal elections, (The act of 1876 specifically excluded them) it wasn’t until 1960 that indigenous Canadians gained the right to vote in federal elections without having to renounce their indigenous status. This change was a critical step towards recognizing their rights as citizens. Despite formal voting rights, many indigenous communities still face barriers, such as no access to polling stations the influence of systematic issues.
  • Canadian Bill of Rights

    The Canadian Bill of Rights, which was enacted in 1960 is a federal statute that outlines and protects The civil rights and freedoms of Canadian citizens. The Bill of Rights only applies to federal laws and does not have the same constitutional statutes as The Canadian charter of rights and freedoms. The bill includes provisions for fundamental freedoms such as freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of religion. It also protects legal rights like the right to a fair trial.
  • Ontario Human Rights Code

    Enacted in 1962, The Ontario human rights code is a piece of legislation that exists to protect individuals from a discrimination and harassment in various aspects of public life. It applies several areas, including employment, housing, services, and contracts. The code ensures that individuals have the right to fully participate In society without facing discrimination. The Ontario human rights code is critical for protecting human rights and promoting equality in Ontario.
  • Immigration Act of 1967

    The immigration act of 1967 was Piece of legislation in Canada that marked a change in the countries immigration policy. The act introduced a point system for evaluating immigrants, focussed on education, work experience and language proficiency. It also aimed to eliminate discriminatory practises that had been present in previous immigration policies. The immigration act also had a mass impact on diversity in Canada as Canada’s immigration boomed allowing a broader demographic to enter Canada.
  • Canadian Official languages Act

    Enacted in 1969, The Canadian official languages Act aimed to ensure that English and French as the two official language of Canada have equal status and rights in federal institutions. Some key points are; it requires federal institutions to provide services in French and English , it affirms the right of Canadians to use either official language when dealing with federal institutions, and it also promotes the use of languages in society, encouraging bilingualism and it’s development.
  • The Royal Commission on the Status of Women

    The Royal Commission on the Status of Women in Canada was established in 1970 to investigate and make recommendations regarding the social, economic, and legal status of women in Canada. The commission made over 160 recommendations, many of which led to policy changes advancements in women’s rights in Canada, including improvements in maternity leave, access to childcare, and equal pay. The commission also identified systemic discrimination against women and highlighted the need for change.
  • Canadian Human Rights Act

    The Canadian Human Rights Act was an encted in 1977 to ensure that all Canadians have the right to be free from discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and the provision of services. Some key points about the act is that prohibits discrimination based on several grounds including race, gender age disabilities, sexual orientation, religion. It applies to federal government departments agencies and businesses regulated by the federal Government. The act promotes equality dignity.
  • The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

    Enacted in 1982, The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is a fundamental part of Canada‘s constitution as outlines the rights and freedoms that are guaranteed to all Canadians ensuring protection against government actions that may challenge these rights. The charter includes fundamental freedoms, legal rights, equality, rights, language, rights, and the enforcement of the charter.
  • Big M drug Mart Ltd. V. Canada

    Big M drug Mart Ltd v. Canada is a milestone case that dealt with the issue of freedom of religion and the constitutional protection of rights. This case arose when Big M Drug Mart, a retail store in Alberta, was charged for selling goods on a Sunday. Which was prohibited by The Lords day act. In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court ruled that the Lords day act was unconstitutional as it imposed a particular religious practice on all Canadians Violating the principal of Religious freedom.
  • R. v. Oakes

    The RV Oaks case is significant as it addressed the balance between individual rights and the power of the state under the Canadian charter of rights and freedoms. The case involved, David Oakes, who was charged under the Controlled drugs and substances act for possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking. Basically Oaks couldn’t prove that he was innocent, unless he proved himself guilty, which is a direct violation of his right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
  • Abortion Rights (1988)

    Abortion rights in Canada was specifically impacted by the Supreme Court case R. V Morgentaler in 1988. Some key points from the case include; the Supreme Courts decision, the impact, And its significance. Dr. Henry Morgentaler Was charged Under the criminal code for performing abortions In clinics without the approval of a hospital committee, which was required by law at the time. After it was seen unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, Abortion was effectively decriminalized in Canada
  • The Employment Equity Act

    Enacted in 1995, the employment equity act was used to promote equal opportunities in the workplace for designated groups, which include women, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. Some key points of the act is to eliminate barriers to employment, Highlight employer obligations, Advocate more for monitoring and reporting in the workplace, and compliance. This act is designed to host a diverse and inclusive That promotes fairness and equality.
  • Delgamuukw. V. British Columbia

    Delgamuukw v. British Columbia is a landmark court case in Canada that addressed indigenous land rights and the recognition of aboriginal title. The case arose from a dispute involving claiming aboriginal titles to traditional territories. The significance of this case Is that it Was a crucial step in affirming the rights of indigenous peoples in Canada and their connection to their traditional lands through evidence of historical use, and occupation.
  • Vriend. V. Alberta

    Vriend v. Alberta is a significant Supreme Court case in Canada that focussed on discrimination based on sexual orientation. The case involved, a gay man who is fired from his job in a private school at Alberta he filed a complaint with the Alberta human rights commission after learning that sexual orientation was not included as a prohibited ground of Discrimination. The ruling led to the amendment of Alberta’s human rights legislation to include sexual orientation as a protected ground.
  • R .V. Marshall

    R v. Marshall dealt with indigenous fishing rights. The case of rose when Donald Marshall, a mi’kmaq man was charged with fishing eels out of season with without a license in Nova Scotia. Marshall argued that he had to right to fish for eels based on a treaty signed in 1760 between the Crown and the mi’kmaq people. Which guaranteed the right to fish for food. The Supreme Court ruled in favour of Marshall, affirming that the treaty rights of the Mi’kmaq people included the right fish for food.
  • Same Sex Marriage in Canada

    Same-sex marriage in Canada became legal nationwide on July 20, 2005 when the federal government passed the civil marriage act some key points from the act highlight legalization, equality, and public support. The impact has contributed to The visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships in Canada promoting inclusivity and diversity
  • Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Canada

    The truth and reconciliation commission in Canada was established in 2008 as a part of the residential school settlement agreement. Its primary goal was to document the history and impacts of the residential school systems on indigenous peoples. Some key points about the TRC include mandates, testimonies, recommendations, And impacts. The TRC represents a significant And crucial step towards true forgiveness and reconciliation as well as accountability and Healing for indigenous Communities.