The Rights and Responsibilities of Canadian Citizens

Rights of Canadian Citizenship

Fundamental Rights Freedom of conscience and religion — the right to develop, change
and practice one’s beliefs.

Freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression — this includes

freedom of speech and of the press.

Freedom of peaceful assembly (e.g., rallies).

Freedom of association (i.e., you can freely join or leave a group).

Legal Rights Habeas corpus — the right to challenge unlawful detention by the
state.
Anyone charged with an offence is considered innocent until
proven guilty in a court of law.

Democratic Rights Adults (those 18 years and older) have the right to vote in federal,
provincial and municipal elections.
Adults have the right to stand for election to political office.

Mobility Rights The right to live and work anywhere in Canada.

The right to enter and leave the country freely.
The right to apply for a passport.
Indigenous Peoples’ Treaty or other rights or freedoms of Indigenous peoples cannot be
Rights adversely affected by the rights guaranteed in the Canadian
Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Official Language French and English have equal status in Parliament and throughout
Rights and Minority the government.
Language Citizens have the right to education in either official language.
Educational Rights

Multiculturalism All members of Canadian society have the right to preserve,

enhance and share their languages and cultural heritage.

Equality The right to be treated fairly, regardless of gender, age, cultural

background, religion, race, or mental or physical disability.

Responsibilities of Canadian Citizenship

Respect Others Respect the rights and freedoms of others.
Respect the two official languages and multiculturalism.

Legal Responsibilities All individuals and groups must obey the law.
Citizens are legally required to serve on a jury when called to
do so.

Democratic Citizens are responsible to vote in federal, provincial/territorial

Responsibilities and local elections.

Personal Responsibility Citizens are responsible to look after themselves, including

working hard and taking care of their families.

Community Volunteering in the community is an important part of

Involvement Canadian citizenship.

Protecting Heritage and All citizens are responsible to avoid waste and pollution and
Environment protect Canada’s natural, cultural and architectural heritage for
future generations.