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Introduction

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Where Do My Rights Come From?

Your rights are basic legal protections that make sure you’re treated fairly and with respect. They come from different sources:

  • The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms: Fundamental human rights, including the rights to equality, privacy, liberty, and freedom of expression are guaranteed by the Charter, which is part of our Constitution—the supreme law of Canada.
  • Provincial and territorial laws: These add extra protections (for example on privacy and against discrimination). Provincial and territorial laws also set rules for schools, including what rules and obligations they are required to follow.
  • Court and human rights tribunal decisions: These decisions can give us clear indications of what rights look like when applied to particular situations.
Important

This Guide only provides general information—it does not provide legal advice for your specific situation the way that lawyers and legal clinics can. In the Resources section at the end of this Guide, you will find queer-positive organizations you can contact for assistance, support, and legal help.

If you think that your rights have been violated, and you are considering what to do next, please see the section entitled “What to Do if You Think Your Rights Have Been Violated”.