Lesson 2 of 2 · 5 min read
With the rights of citizenship come responsibilities — obligations every Canadian is expected to fulfil.
Citizenship is a two-way relationship: along with rights, Canadians accept certain responsibilities.
The guide lists six responsibilities of citizenship.
One of Canada's founding principles is the rule of law. Individuals and governments are regulated by laws, not by arbitrary actions, and no person or group is above the law.
Getting a job, taking care of one's family and working hard in keeping with one's abilities are important Canadian values. Work contributes to personal dignity and self-respect, and to Canada's prosperity.
The right to vote comes with a responsibility to vote in federal, provincial or territorial, and local elections.
When called, you are legally required to serve on a jury. It is also a privilege: the justice system depends on impartial juries made up of citizens.
Millions of volunteers give their time without pay: helping people in need, assisting at a child's school, volunteering at a food bank, or helping newcomers settle. Volunteering is also a good way to gain skills and make friends.
Every citizen has a role in avoiding waste and pollution and in protecting Canada's natural, cultural and architectural heritage for future generations.
Military service is not compulsory in Canada, but it is a noble way to contribute to Canadian society and is considered an excellent career choice and volunteer opportunity. Canadians can serve through the Canadian Forces (Navy, Army, and Air Force), the Militia and Reserves, the Coast Guard, or fire, police, and other emergency services.
Key facts
Canadians are expected to obey the law, one of the founding principles that makes Canada a free and democratic society.
Serving on a jury when called is a legal duty of Canadian citizens.
Voting in elections is described as a responsibility as well as a right — participating in the democratic process helps choose Canada's government.
Helping others in the community, such as through volunteering, is highlighted as part of good citizenship.
The guide's six responsibilities are: obeying the law, taking responsibility for oneself and one's family, serving on a jury, voting in elections, helping others in the community, and protecting and enjoying our heritage and environment.
Military service is not compulsory in Canada, but serving is considered a noble way to contribute — an excellent career and volunteer opportunity in the Canadian Forces (Navy, Army, Air Force), the Militia and Reserves, the Coast Guard, or fire, police and emergency services.
Answer all 2 to mark this lesson done.
1. Which of the following is a legal duty of Canadian citizens when called upon?
2. Besides being a right, voting is also described as what?
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