December is National Human Rights Month, a time to reflect on the rights and freedoms that unite us all. In Canada, these values are enshrined in the Canadian
Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees fundamental protections and liberties to every person in Canada. Here's a brief look at these essential rights.
December 10th is a Date to remember! But why?
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms:
Fundamental Freedoms: The freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief, expression, peaceful assembly, and association form the bedrock of individual liberty in Canada. These freedoms empower us to express ourselves and engage in our communities freely.
Democratic Rights: The right to vote and run for public office ensures that every Canadian has a voice in shaping their government and a stake in their democracy.
Mobility Rights: Canadians are free to live, work, and travel anywhere within the country and leave or return to Canada as they choose. These rights underline the openness and inclusivity of our nation.
Legal Rights: Everyone is entitled to life, liberty, and security of the person, as well as fair treatment under the law. These rights protect individuals from arbitrary actions by the state and ensure justice for all.
Equality Rights: The Charter guarantees equality under the law and protection against discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age, disability, or other grounds. These rights affirm our shared humanity and commitment to equity.
Official Languages of Canada: English and French have equal status in Canada’s institutions, ensuring bilingual representation and services across the nation.
Minority Language Educational Rights: Families have the right to have their children educated in their mother tongue, whether English or French, when there are enough speakers of that language in their region.
Indigenous Rights: The Charter acknowledges and respects the existing rights of Indigenous peoples, including Treaty rights, contributing to reconciliation and recognition of Canada's First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities.
Multicultural Heritage: Canada's Charter supports the preservation and enhancement of the multicultural heritage of all Canadians, celebrating diversity as a strength.
Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on December 10, 1948 (General Assembly resolution 217 A) as a common standard of achievements for all peoples and all nations.
Human rights are for everyone:
At Saving Grace Medical Academy, we are proud to uphold these principles by fostering an inclusive environment where individuals from all walks of life come together to learn life-saving skills. As a family-owned, Métis-operated educational facility, we are committed to improving lives in our community through high-quality training, promoting diversity, and embracing the unique contributions of every student.
This December, let us continue to honor human rights by creating spaces of acceptance, understanding, and empowerment for all. Together, we can build a better, more inclusive future.
Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only, sourced from the Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It is not a substitute for medical advice or professional training.
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor