Freedom of and from religion.

Introduction T Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (Part I of the Constitution Act, 1982)1 guarantees the rights and freedoms set out in it subject only to reasonable limits prescribed by law as can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society. The Charter details four fundamental freedoms: freedom of conscience and religion; freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication; freedom of peaceful assembly; and freedom of association. Section 15(1)1 of the Charter also indicates that every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age, or mental or physical disability. The application of religion to everyday life has historically not been without its problems and benefits. Societies that contain dominant religions have in some cases promulgated laws specific to that religion that have precluded other religious groups from practising their religion in peace and harmony. To allow for the multitude of religious and spiritual beliefs, many societies—including Canadian society—have separated church and state, which allows for secular government and the ability for citizens to practise their religion of choice freely and openly.