Canadian values

Last reviewed: March 20, 2024


Canada has national and provincial laws in place that guarantee human rights. These laws promote the equality of men and women and they protect everyone from discrimination.

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects people from discrimination based on race, sex, age, skin colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation.

The Charter also guarantees:

  • Freedom of expression
  • A democratic government
  • The right to live and seek employment anywhere in Canada
  • A lawyer and legal representation if you are accused of a crime
  • The rights of Indigenous peoples
  • Equality between women and men
  • Your right to use either of Canada’s official languages
  • The right of English-speaking and French-speaking people to an education in their own language
  • The protection of cultures and traditions from other parts of the world within Canada, known as multiculturalism

Learn more: