Activity 2 page 2

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Rights are an important part of Canada's culture in that they ensure that Canadians have political, economic, health, and security opportunities.

Review the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the individual and collective rights it guarantees to every person living in Canada, whether they are citizens or not.

Originally, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms did not protect immigrants and refugees. As you examined in Unit 2, there have been Charter challenges. The challenges have resulted in a change of laws in Canada.

The Singh decision in 1985 was one such Charter challenge. As a result of this decision, April 4 is now recognized as Refugee Rights Day in Canada.

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Read "What is the Singh decision?" on page 181 of your textbook, Issues for Canadians. 

Examine the facts and the result of the decision. Consider which individual rights are important to refugees.

After the decision was made by the Supreme Court on April 4, 1985, many opinions and perspectives on the outcome surfaced.

Complete the activity, Singh Decision: Views and Perspectives, by clicking on the link below.

Singh Decision: Views and Perspectives (Word)
Singh Decision: Views and Perspectives (pdf)
Singh Decision: Views and Perspectives (Google Doc)

Many differing opinions and perspectives regarding the Singh decision are evident among individuals and groups within Canada. Consider the question below and determine your position on the matter.

To what extent should Canada provide refugee status to all people who request it?

-Patricia Lychak et al., Issues for Canadians: Student Resource (Scarborough: Nelson Education Ltd., 2008). 182. Reproduced by permission.

Going Beyond

 Internet Web Search

Examine the refugee policies of other nations such as Great Britain, Australia, France, or the United States. How are refugees treated in these countries as compared to in Canada? Are refugee rights protected in other countries that you researched? Use a web search to find information.

Workbook Summary

In this workbook, you investigated the following questions.

What criteria are used when accepting immigrants and refugees to Canada?

How does the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms affect the individual rights of immigrants and refugees?

Immigration is very important to Canada as an ever-growing and ever-evolving nation. However, no matter how integral immigration may be to our country, it is also important to have legislation to regulate it. Immigration legislation allows the government to ensure the quality of life of both Canadians and newcomers to Canada.

The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, 2002 has established criteria used in the processing of applications for immigration. These criteria have been established to ensure that the needs of all Canadians are met, considering both the opportunities and the challenges that immigration poses for Canada and its citizens.

Since April 4, 1985, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms has protected all people in Canada, including those who are not citizens. As a result, immigrants and refugees are ensured opportunities to see success when they move to Canada.

In the next workbook, you will examine the impact of immigration on Aboriginal peoples and communities.

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