How does the Charter treat the treaty rights of Aboriginal peoples?
- Charter rights will not adversely affect treaty or other rights of Aboriginal peoples
- It applies treaty rights only in the territories
- It replaces all treaties signed before 1982
- It suspends treaty rights during elections
Answer: Charter rights will not adversely affect treaty or other rights of Aboriginal peoples
The Charter says the rights it guarantees will not adversely affect, or harm, any treaty or other rights or freedoms of Aboriginal peoples. The Oath of Citizenship also refers to the Constitution, which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
Learn more: The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
- The Constitution of Canada was amended in 1982 to entrench the Charter.
- It begins: “Whereas Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the supremacy of God and the rule of law.”
- This phrase underlines the importance of religious traditions to Canadian society and the dignity and worth of the human person.
- Mobility rights: Canadians can live and work anywhere in Canada, enter and leave the country freely, and apply for a passport.
- Aboriginal peoples’ rights: Charter rights will not adversely affect any treaty or other rights or freedoms of Aboriginal peoples.
- Official language rights: French and English have equal status in Parliament and throughout the government.
- The Charter also protects minority language educational rights.
- Multiculturalism is a fundamental characteristic of Canadian heritage and identity. Canadians respect pluralism and try to live in harmony.