Canada Act Impact Discussion Board
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Patriation of the Constitution
The Canada Act of 1982 ended Canada’s dependency on the UK for constitutional changes, allowing Canada to amend its own laws. This shift marked a crucial step in Canada’s journey towards full sovereignty. -
Introduction of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms
The Charter provides essential protections for individual rights, ensuring that freedoms like speech, religion, and equality are upheld. This foundational document changed how Canadians could challenge laws and government actions that violate their rights. -
Strengthened Federal-Provincial Relations
The act ignited debates and tensions between the federal and provincial governments, particularly with Quebec. The exclusion of Quebec from the constitutional agreement created lasting divisions, affecting national unity and provincial interests.