Citizenship Responsibilities
In Canada, rights come with responsibilities. These include:
- Obeying the law -- One of Canada's founding principles is the rule of law. Individuals and governments are regulated by laws and not by arbitrary actions. No person or group is above the law.
- Taking responsibility -- 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.
- Serving on a jury -- When called to do so, you are legally required to serve. Serving on a jury is a privilege that makes the justice system work, as it depends on impartial juries made up of citizens.
- Voting in elections - The right to vote comes with a responsibility to vote in federal, provincial or territorial, and local elections.
- Helping others in the community-Millions of volunteers freely donate their time to help others without pay - helping people in need, assisting at your child's school, volunteering at a food bank or other charity, or encouraging newcomers to integrate. Volunteering is an excellent way to gain useful skills and develop friends and contacts.
- Protecting and enjoying our heritage and environment - Every citizen has a role to play in avoiding waste and pollution while protecting Canada's natural, cultural and architectural heritage for future generations.
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Quick Guide to Canada
What every Canadian citizen and immigrants who seek citizenship must know.