What's New

What's New

Constitution 1982: The 25th Anniversary - a new exhibition on display at Library and Archives Canada

Ottawa, June 28, 2007 – To mark Canada's 140th birthday and the 25th anniversary of the patriation of the Constitution, Library and Archives Canada offers a rare opportunity to see the original proclamation through its exhibition Constitution 1982: The 25th Anniversary.

The exhibition traces the political and diplomatic process leading to the Constitution Act, 1982. It explains how Canada gradually obtained its independence and the negotiations leading to repatriation. A special section focuses on access to and preservation of these valuable and historic documents.

"The 1982 proclamation represents a fascinating story, worthy of our interest and our conservation efforts," said Ian E. Wilson, Librarian and Archivist of Canada. "We are delighted to invite you to come and get a close look at a historic document that is of such great importance to Canada."

In 1967, Canada had its own national symbols and possessed all the powers of an independent nation, except the power to amend its own Constitution, which could be done only by the British Parliament. Repatriating the Constitution was a long and complicated process. The signing of the proclamation on April 17, 1982, marked the end of efforts by many successive governments. The new Constitution was accompanied by a Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and an amending formula that would no longer require an appeal to the British Parliament.

The exhibition Constitution 1982: The 25th Anniversary will run until August 6, 2007, daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. in Exhibition Room C at Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa. Admission is free.

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Information:
Pauline M. Portelance
Senior Media Relations Officer
Library and Archives Canada
613-996-6128

For historical information visit: Archived What's New