Discussions on the rule of law will be held in libraries, rotary clubs over the month
Ontario lawyers are partnering with community organizations to educate the public on the rule of law over the month of April.
Discussions will be conducted at organizations like libraries and rotary clubs on how the rule of law underpins democracy and various aspects of Ontarians’ daily lives. It aligns with the anniversary of the signing of Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Ontario chief justice Michael Tulloch has joined the campaign; on April 17, he will be co-presenting with Ontario Bar Association past president Lynne Vicars at the Toronto Rotary Club.
“April is the month we celebrate ‘Law Day’ – an annual reminder of the importance of Canada’s constitution. That constitution belongs to us all and the rule of law is its foundation,” said Vicars, who co-chairs the OBA Law Day committee, in a statement. “Lawyers are sworn guardians of the rule of law but we know it will not truly be in safe hands unless everyone appreciates its meaning and sees its value. We are looking to help make that happen.”
OBA president Katy Commisso described the rule of law as “the oxygen of our society.”
“We don’t always notice it, but it is always there, fueling businesses and the economy, community safety, and the protection of our rights and freedoms. The rule of law has been democracy’s silent partner for so long that we worry the phrase has lost its meaning for many. As developments around the world suggest that there is risk in taking the rule of law for granted, we need to better understand it so we are better prepared to protect it,” she said.
Commisso added that the organization would be connecting with schools and youth organizations to expand the education initiative to young people. She also confirmed that the campaign would be “a continuing effort.”
OBA second vice-president and Law Day committee co-chair Brenda Hollingsworth explained that the campaign sought to aid community partners in recognizing “the signs when something isn’t working as it should and understand how to respond, so the foundations of our democracy remain strong.”
