Question

Section 27 of the Charter (Constitution Act 1982) provides this protection for multiculturalism: “This Charter shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with the preservation and enhancement of the multicultural heritage of Canadians.” What makes this section different than the other Charter rights? Does this section inhibit or enhance Canada’s multicultural identity?

Answer 1

Section 27 was referred as Canadian Multiculturalism Act and passed as a legislation in 1988. In 2002, a poll conducted found that 86% of Canadians approved this section meaning, this section has enhanced Canada’s sensitivity towards multiculturalism. Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism which was adopted in 1971 to include the French speaking people in the main stream was the starting point for this section. Section 27 was confirmed by the Supreme Court of Canada way back in 1986 and when it was passed as a law, it ensured the respect and tolerance of various religions and cultures that live next to each other along with the main stream culture. It also ensured some exemption for people who practice their own custom from the national mainstream.