Immigration and the Constitution: How Constitutional Rights Protect Newcomers as Consumers in Canada
When you step into a Canadian store, sign a lease, or open a bank account as a newcomer, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms stands behind you with the same force it extends to every citizen. Section 15 guarantees equality rights regardless of national or ethnic origin, while section 7 protects your security of person in transactions that affect your fundamental interests. These constitutional protections don’t vanish at the checkout counter or disappear when you’re comparison shopping. They form the legal foundation ensuring that merchants, landlords, and service providers cannot discriminate against you, mislead you, or exploit your newcomer status.
Yet …
