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Basic RightsWhich part of the government deals with what?
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Knowing which level of government does what shows you how decisions are made that affect you, so you can get involved and have a say in what happens.
Federal government
The federal government takes care of national issues like national security, foreign affairs, criminal laws, and citizenship and immigration. Ever heard of the Criminal Code or the Constitution Act? Those are examples of federal laws.
Everyone in Canada has a Federal Member of Parliament (MP) who represents them and where they live. You can call, email or write to your MP to let them know what matters to YOU.
Provincial Government
These laws are more about what happens closer to home. Your provincial government handles things like health care, employment standards, education, and the environment. For example, in BC, you've got laws like the BC Employment Standards Act and the Residential Tenancy Act for employment and renting rights.
You also have a Provincial Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) who represents you in the Provincial Government. You can talk to them too!
Municipal Government
These laws are all about your local community. Municipal governments deal with things like parks, public transit, smoking rules, and animal control. So, if you want to know about rules for smoking in public places or keeping pets in your city, you're looking at municipal laws. There are lots of ways to have your say in your local town or city like contacting your city council members or attending public hearings.
Indigenous Self Government
Indigenous peoples in Canada have their own forms of government and laws. They govern their communities through Indigenous self-government, which allows them to make decisions about issues that affect their people and lands. These laws reflect their unique cultures, traditions, and histories.
What self government looks like is different for each Nation.