A registered Canadian charity
Democracy doesn't defend itself.
We give every student and emerging leader the knowledge, values, and confidence not just to take part in democracy — but to stand up for it.
Why Section 1
We take our name from Section 1 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms — the clause that guarantees everyone the rights of a free and democratic society.
Our vision is a Canada where that promise isn’t taken for granted — where every citizen understands what democracy asks of them, and feels a personal responsibility to answer.
Section 1 exists to make that happen.
What we do
Civic education is the mission. Our conferences and publications build the case.
Learning programs
Civic education for students and emerging leaders — including SIDE and our Bootcamp for Democratic Citizenship.
Conferences and events
Convenings that bring scholars, jurists, students, and citizens together.
Analysis and publications
Commentary, books, and research on democracy and citizenship.
In their words
“My parents and I hold very different political views, and it’s rare we find common ground. What I loved about SIDE was that it gave us principles we fundamentally agreed on — and room to diverge from there.”
— Scarlett O. Lu, SIDE graduate
“A comprehensive view of democracy that will educate and challenge.”
— The Hon. Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, 2014–2023
Education for heroic citizenship
Every citizen has a role to play.
Not all heroes wear capes.
Democracy doesn’t need superpowers to defend it. It needs citizens who understand it, value it, and refuse to look away when it’s being eroded. Section 1 is here to equip them.
Get involved
Help build a generation of engaged citizens.
Your gift brings civic education to youth across Canada.