What does it take to bring law to life? Justice Sheilah Martin of the Supreme Court of Canada pondered this question on February 9th with a room full of human rights activists, law students, professors, and community members. Canadians for A Civil Society (CCS) and the University of Alberta’s (U of A) Centre for Constitutional Studies put a remarkable evening together. Let’s revisit the highlights that brought Life to the Law.
"How do we bring law to life?
The answer is simple – people."
Before Justice Martin got a moment to speak, a heartfelt moment unfolded where Mr. Vasant Chotai, President of CCS, expressed gratitude to dedicated CCS board members for their hard work, and he emphasized the vital role of community organizations, recognizing them as pillars of positive change. Mr. Chotai also thanked Dr. Marvin Washington, the College Dean and the Vice Provost for Social Sciences and Humanities, for partnering with CCS to put together a reception. Dr. Washington spoke about the importance of democracy in civil society and emphasized how truth and integrity are crucial for a fair community. Following his remarks, he had the privilege of introducing the guest of the evening, whose presence illuminated the gathering.
During the event, Justice Martin unraveled the mysteries of law: What is it? Where does it come from? And why does the law matter?
In her engaging speech, she answered the following questions and demonstrated the importance of law in society.
When asked about the secret to bringing the law to life – With conviction, she declared, “How do we bring law to life? The answer is simple – people.” She stressed that law gains vitality when people actively engage, follow its principles, and work together to build a fair and just society.
“It's a big job that needs everyone's heart
and dedication—a labor of love.”
How? You may ask: “It’s a big job that needs everyone’s heart and dedication—a labor of love.” She sees multiculturalism as an essential part of Canada’s diverse mosaic. It’s not just a policy but a source of pride. It’s about celebrating differences and believing each person’s story matters in our shared history.
Justice Martin stressed its significance in today’s world by shifting the focus to education. Despite the apparent cost, she clarified that the expense of education is far less than the cost of ignorance. Literacy is an investment that leads to a brighter and more knowledgeable society.
She called attention to Section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms – a protector of equality and a defender against discrimination. She illustrated how this policy walks the tightrope of promoting equality and combating inequity. It plays a significant role in driving essential social changes, and its purpose is to steer us towards a society where everyone feels included.
“If you want to be disliked,
try to change something".
Justice Martin also shed light on the remarkable journey of Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin, an exemplary person who paved the path for other women, especially young female lawyers, to find their place in powerful positions in the country’s future. Chief Justice McLachlin’s journey from a tenured associate professor to the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada is a groundbreaking chapter in Canadian history.
In her closing words, Justice Sheilah Martin delivered a simple truth: “If you want to be disliked, try to change something.” This is a reminder that improving things might not always make you famous, but it’s often necessary for progress, especially regarding the country’s future.
Justice Sheilah Martin’s address that evening breathed vitality into the often abstract and complex realm of law, bringing it vividly to life. Through her engaging speech, she illuminated the practical significance of legal principles, demonstrating how they intersect with and impact people’s everyday lives.