Democracy Basics
What is democracy?
A system where people have the power to make decisions (directly or through elected representatives)
What document protects individual rights and freedoms in Canada?
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
What was the Treaty of La Grande Paix de Montréal?
A 1701 peace agreement between the French and many First Nations
How are local government leaders chosen?
By elections (voting)
Name one way citizens can participate in government decisions
Voting, protests, petitions
What is one key difference between direct and representative democracy?
Direct = citizens vote on laws; Representative = citizens elect leaders to decide
Name one individual right protected by the Charter
Freedom of speech (or religion, equality, etc.)
What does collective identity mean?
Shared culture, traditions, and sense of belonging
Name one responsibility of local government
Roads, garbage collection, parks, policing
What is an example of an association?
A group that represents people (e.g., unions, interest groups)
Name one similarity between direct and representative democracy
Both give citizens a voice in government
What are collective rights?
Rights of groups (e.g., Indigenous peoples, language groups)
How did the treaty respect First Nations identity?
Allowed nations to keep their cultures and traditions
What is the role of a school board?
Makes decisions about schools and education
How do associations help citizens?
Give members a stronger voice
Give one right and one responsibility of citizens
Right = vote; Responsibility = follow laws (or stay informed, respect others)
Why is the Charter entrenched in the Constitution?
So it cannot be easily changed and rights are protected
Name one right recognized in the treaty
Right to peace, land use, or neutrality
What is the role of the Lieutenant Governor?
Represents the King and gives royal assent to laws
What does accountability mean in government?
Being responsible for actions and answering to citizens
How does Canada’s justice system protect democracy?
Courts ensure laws follow the Charter and protect rights
How does the Charter protect equality?
It guarantees equal treatment under the law for everyone
Compare the Charter and the treaty
Charter = protects individual & collective rights in law; Treaty = agreement recognizing group identity and peace relationships
Difference between an MLA and a cabinet minister
MLA represents people; cabinet minister runs a government department
How can individuals influence decisions besides voting?
Contact leaders, join groups, attend meetings, campaign