This is the second part in our series of “Ultimate Guide to Life in Canada”. In this post we talk about the rights and freedoms of permanent residents and citizens in Canada.

Individuals’ rights and freedoms are safeguarded in both federal and provincial or territorial legislation in Canada. Individuals in a free and democratic society are entitled to the rights and freedoms stipulated by the Canadian Constitution. The civil rights of all people in Canada, as well as certain political liberties, are guaranteed by the Constitution.

The Canadian Constitution protects:
• The freedom to express your ideas and thoughts without constraint (including through a free press);

• The freedom to associate with anybody you choose and converse in peace with others.;

• The freedom to practice religion of your choice;

• The right to live anywhere in Canada;

• Protection against unlawful or unjust arrest or detention by the government, as well as the right to due legal procedure under Canadian law;

• The right to equal protection and equal benefit of the law without prejudice or, in particular, on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability;

• The same rights and privileges, regardless of your gender.; and

• The right to government services in English or French.

You will be able to do the following if you become a Canadian citizen:
• vote in federal, provincial, and territorial elections;

• run for office; and

• apply for a Canadian passport. You will also be able to travel freely into and out of Canada.

As a resident of Canada, you have the rights and privileges listed above as well as others. The Government of Canada encourages you to recognize that these rights come with duties, such as:

• Recognizing Canadian legislation;

• Learning English or French or both;

• Working to take care of yourself and your family;

• Helping others in your community; and

• Protecting Canada’s heritage and natural environment

How Canadian Laws protect rights and freedoms:
The legal system in Canada protects individual liberties while ensuring that the society runs smoothly. The principle that the law applies to everyone is critical. Police, government, and public officials, as well as other individuals who have been entrusted with public responsibilities, must all operate within the law.

This means that public officials cannot act in their own interests; they must act in yours. It also means that laws are accessible to all the people who live here, not just those who can afford expensive lawyers and experts.

You might be able to obtain the help of a lawyer without charge if your income is low (this is known as “legal aid”). The province and territory governments are in charge of providing these services. You can also seek assistance from an immigrant-serving organization in your neighborhood for obtaining legal counsel.

The police in Canada are responsible for ensuring public safety and upholding the law. If you need to contact the cops in an emergency, call 911. Police officers exist to assist you and others. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty under Canadian legislation.

For additional information on all aspects of Canadian law and justice, you can visit the Justice Canada website at www.justice.gc.ca.

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