The Canadian way of democracy is a system that works effectively but is run heavily on its own Canadian citizens. Canadians influence their country in three different ways, through bills, supporting our citizens and protesting. Throughout Canadian history Canada has fought for its rights as a citizen.

            Since the British North America Act of 1867, Canada has listened to people’s opinions and used these opinions to form bills. The Civil Marriage Act is one of the examples proving that the Canadian bills can govern the way Canada is run. The bill, introduced by Irwin Cottler, caused an uproar of Canadians debating for the right of same sex marriages.  Many Canadian citizens expressed their opinions to the bill, which shows that Canada is willing to struggle for their rights as people. Although bills are one way Canadian citizens fight for their rights, they also fight for what they believe in.

            When Canadians strongly believe that there is some injustice, Canada fights for its fellow citizens. Irene Murdoch is an example. She was an Alberta farmer who decided to divorce her abusive husband. Murdoch had asked to have a share of the farm she and her husband worked on however, she was denied. Many Canadian feminists felt that it was wrong for her to not get a share of the farm because her duties were considered the duties of a typical farmer’s wife. In 1973, Irene Murdoch was finally granted the pay to her farm. This case brought the attention that many of these duties that females perform are just as much as a responsibility to men. In the long run the Ontario Family Law Reform act was established in 1987. Thus making child care, household management and finances a joint responsibility to husbands and wives. When Canadian citizens assist one another it shows how Canadian citizens feel connected and can help fight for the rights of each other. Protesting is one of the biggest ways Canada influences the way they are governed.

            Protests have been used around the world since the 16^th century to debate and fight for human rights. In Canada many people use protesting as way to voice out their views of environment, feminism, politics and more. One of the most famous Canadian protesters is Dr. Emily Howard Stowe. Stowe was the first Canadian female to ever practice medicine. In 1867, Emily Stowe created a campaign for the rights of women to study medicine in Canada. Because of her fighting she allowed females to practice medicine in Canada. Another example would be James Shaver Woodsworth. He was the leader of the Winnipeg General Strike. Many metal and building workers protested at Winnipeg for higher wages, a shorter working week and the right to collective bargaining. Although it took a long time for their demands to be considered, in the long run most of what they fought for was achieved. Protests may be dangerous but they are usually successful.

            Canadians influence the country they live in hugely. They do this by making bills, supporting one another and protesting. Canada is a country that listens and tries to solve the issues in front of them. “Canada understands something that the rest of the world doesn't…interdependence.” - Bono