The 1982 Constitution Act and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Her Majesty the Queen signing the Constitution, April 17, 1982, Robert Cooper. Library and Archives Canada, e002282980 © Government of Canada
April 17, 1982
The creation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was a key aspect of the constitutional reform agreed to in 1981 by the federal government and nine provinces (excluding Quebec). The Charter’s inclusion in the Constitution means that any law found to violate basic freedoms and individual and minority rights becomes invalid. The Charter came into force — with numerous amendments — on April 17, 1982. Since then, the Supreme Court of Canada has rendered hundreds of decisions related to charter rights.
Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.