An Accord Between the Government of Canada and the Voluntary Sector
THE ACCORD
II. VALUES
The Accord is based on the following six Canadian values that are most relevant to the relationship
between the Government of Canada and the voluntary sector. These values are interrelated and together
create the climate for improving and enhancing the lives of all Canadians:
Democracy - upholding the right to associate
freely, to express views freely and to engage in advocacy.
Active Citizenship - welcoming the active
involvement or engagement of individuals and communities in shaping society whether through
political or voluntary activity or both.
Equality - respecting the rights of Canadians
under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Canadian Human Rights Act, and the
rights of individuals worldwide as defined by the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human
Rights.
Diversity - respecting the rich variety
of cultures, languages, identities, interests, views, abilities, and communities in Canada.
Inclusion - welcoming the expression
and representation of diversity and upholding the right of each to speak and be heard.
Social Justice - ensuring the full participation
in the social, economic and political life of communities.
