Key Events that Shaped the Evolution of Human Rights in Canada

Consitution Act

Jul 1, 1867

Canada inherited this principle of legislative supremacy by way of the preamble to the British North America Act now known as the Consitution Act, 1867.

Ontario Racial Discrimination Act

Mar 14, 1944

Ontario enacts the Racial Discrimination Act, prohibiting the publication or display of any notice, sign, or symbol indicating racial discrimination.

Province of Saskatchewan - First Bill of Rights in Canada

Apr 1, 1947

Province of Saskatewan enacted the first bill of rights in Canada

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Dec 10, 1948

The United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which included the right to life, liberty and security of the person, the right to privacy, the right to own property, and the freedom of expression, religion, movement, consciencem and peaceful assembly.

Canadian Bill of Rights

Aug 10, 1960

Prime Minister John Diefenbaker brings in the Canadian Bill of Rights.

First Human Rights Code

Jun 15, 1962

The first human rights code to consolidate various antidiscrimination provisions was adopted by Ontario.

Official Languages Act

Sep 9, 1969

Official Language Act was adopted

Canadian Human Rights Act

Jan 1, 1977

The Federal Government enacted the Canadian Human Rights Act

The Constitution Act & Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom

Apr 17, 1982

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms become part of Canada’s constitution and the Canadian identity. The Constitution Act specifically recognizes Aboriginal rights and the Metis as an Aboriginal people.