Welcome - Charter Politics POLI 3207   Charter Politics
CREDIT HOURS: 3
In 1982, Canada successfully patriated its constitution, transferring constitutional power from the British Parliament to Canada’s federal and provincial legislatures. The Constitution was also amended to include both guidelines outlining the procedures under which future amendments to the Act could occur and a Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Charter entrenched individual and some groups rights and forever changed the terrain of rights in Canada. This course considers the development, enactment, and reception of the Charter, questioning how it has influenced both law and politics in Canada in the years since its enactment. It focuses on the key issues and debates that have animated supporters and critics since its inception, including concerns about judicial activism, dialogue between the Court and the legislature, and the recognition of positive rights. It also looks to landmark cases to illuminate different sections of the Charter, their interpretation by the Court and government, and their implications for politics, public policy, and rights-claiming today.
FORMAT: Seminar
PREREQUISITES: 54 credit hours
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