Description: A constitutional bill of rights was a longtime dream for Canadians. Before Pierre Trudeau managed to do it, half a dozen prime ministers tried to have human rights recognized in the Constitution. But it's not only our elected leaders from the past we have to thank for our present rights. All along Canadian history, ordinary citizens have kept the cause of human rights alive by fighting for equal rights and for fundamental freedoms. People like The Famous Five - five women from Alberta who fought all the way to England's Privy Council to have women recognized as persons under the Constitution. The famous five were not only important to women's rights; they helped establish that the Constitution is to be interpreted as a "living tree" capable of adapting to the changing values and circumstances of society. This concept of flexibility was built into the Charter. It continues to help ensure Charter rights and freedoms are relevant to the daily lives of Canadians.

Tags:

canada

country

human rights

living tree

pierre trudeau

privy council

the famous five

womens rights

Groups: Equality Rights Human Rights Womens Rights