Unlocking Justice: A Youth's Guide to Law, Government, and Shaping Canada's Tomorrow

Course Description

In this experiential law and government course, students will learn about their rights, freedoms, duties and obligations as young Canadians. Through a set of engaging activities and discussions, we will explore the Canadian legal system; what it is, what it isn't, and what we need to know. Students will have the opportunity to critically engage with issues that have legal, ethical, political, and social dimensions - developing the tools and skillsets to meaningfully participate in societal change and activism. This course dually explores various elements of criminal law, from the criminal code to the criminal and everything in between. Furthermore, we will explore what it means to participate in a legal proceeding, developing arguments, defending them, and the appeals process. Finally, we will turn to understanding what a future world of drug decriminalization might look like as trials begin in cities over Canada in 2023.

Learning Outcomes:

- Develop a fundamental understanding of the history of law and the Canadian legal system.
- Learn how to construct and defend a legal argument, develop informed opinions, and problem- solving techniques.
- Demonstrate an ability to analyze information and draw conclusions.
- Enhance group problem-solving skills and critical thinking.