Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau sign the Constitution on April 17, 1982. (Library and Archives Canada )

April 17, 1982, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was enacted, a landmark moment for Canada. It enshrined fundamental rights and freedoms, guaranteeing equality before the law for all. For Chinese Canadians, the Charter has been pivotal, providing a robust legal framework to challenge discrimination and affirm their rights, building upon the struggles against historical injustices like the Head Tax and Exclusion Act. It marked a significant step towards a more inclusive and equitable society, profoundly impacting the legal and social standing of Chinese Canadians and all minority groups, ensuring their rights are constitutionally protected.