This April, local lawyers across the province are joining organizations in their communities to help ensure that “rule of law” moves from an abstract shorthand for lawyers to a meaningful watchword for us all. Libraries, Rotary Clubs and other community organizations will host discussions on the ways the rule of law underpins our democracy and virtually every aspect of the day-to-day lives of Ontarians.
“The rule of law is 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,” says OBA President Katy Commisso. “Far from an abstract concept, the rule of law is an active, essential element of our daily lives.”
The OBA, the largest association of lawyers in Canada, has members in every region of Ontario, who are uniquely suited to highlight what the rule of law looks like in the day-to-day, why it matters, and how Canadians can help safeguard it.
Lynne Vicars, a past president of the OBA and one of the co-chairs of the OBA’s Law Day Committee says the timing of the campaign is important. “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. 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.”
Brenda Hollingsworth, the OBA’s 2nd Vice-President and an Ottawa-based lawyer who co-chairs the OBA’s Law Day Committee with Vicars, adds: “People experience the rule of law every day, often without realizing it. It’s invisible when it works, but it can be devastating when it doesn’t. This campaign is about helping our community partners recognize the signs when something isn’t working as it should and understand how to respond, so the foundations of our democracy remain strong.”
The campaign will run throughout the month of April, timed to coincide with the anniversary of the signing of Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Chief Justice of Ontario, the Honourable Michael Tulloch will also participate in the initiative’s public education efforts, joining OBA Past President Lynne Vicars for a presentation to the Toronto Rotary Club on April 17th.
“This will be a continuing effort,” says Commisso, “We will also be reaching out to schools and youth organizations to ensure that the rule of law is something understood and cherished as our young people prepare to lead.”
A complete list of presentation dates, locations and opportunities to get involved can be found at www.oba.org/ruleoflaw.
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