Rights and Freedoms
Elementary School
Definition
The basic entitlements and liberties guaranteed to people, such as equality, freedom of expression, and legal protection. In Canada they are set out in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Worked examples
Freedom of expression allows Canadians to peacefully protest government policies, publish opinions in newspapers, and practice their religion without interference.
These are examples of fundamental freedoms protected under the Charter.
The right to equality under section 15 of the Charter means discrimination based on race, gender, age, or disability is prohibited by law.
Equality rights ensure everyone receives the same legal protections and opportunities.
Common mistakes
- Rights and freedoms are absolute and can never be limited → Rights can be limited by reasonable laws that are justified in a free and democratic society Section 1 of the Charter allows limits on rights when necessary (e.g., hate speech laws limit expression to protect others).
- Only Canadian citizens have Charter rights → Most Charter rights apply to everyone in Canada, citizens and non-citizens alike Only a few rights (like voting) are limited to citizens; most protections cover all people in Canada.
- Rights and freedoms only protect you from other people's actions → The Charter protects you from government actions, not private disputes The Charter limits what government can do; disputes between private individuals are handled under other laws.
Where you'll use it next
You'll apply this when studying Canadian government and law, analyzing court cases involving Charter challenges, understanding civil liberties debates, and examining how rights are protected in other democracies.
See also
Canadian Constitution and CharterUniversal RightsHuman Rights FrameworksRule of LawPersonal FreedomsDemocracy
Reviewed by Pat Cheng, M.Ed. — StudyPug Curriculum Lead · Last updated June 6, 2026