The continuation of the Supreme Court of Canada’s 150th anniversary legal symposium

The symposium marking the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Canada was a resounding success, bringing together judges, jurists, academics, students and journalists from across the country – and beyond.

In a dialogue informed by the past, but looking to the future, we reflected on the role of an apex court in a constitutional democracy, the resilience of justice systems and our shared commitment to upholding the rule of law, dignity and equality for all. We also discussed federalism and the diversity of legal traditions in Canada, including common and civil law, Indigenous legal traditions and the influence of international law.

Engaged speakers and moderators fostered a rich and constructive dialogue, driven by curiosity and humility. Thank you to Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, the Hon. Donal O’Donnell (Chief Justice of Ireland), the Hon. Joe Williams (Supreme Court of New Zealand), Albie Sachs (retired judge, Constitutional Court of South Africa), the Hon. Louise Arbour (retired judge, Supreme Court of Canada), the Hon. Yves de Montigny (Chief Justice, Federal Court of Appeal), the Hon. Sébastien Grammond (Federal Court), the Hon. Georgina R. Jackson (Court of Appeal for Saskatchewan), the Hon. Audrey Boctor (Superior Court of Québec), and to professors Shauna Van Praagh (Law Commission of Canada), Stephen J. Toope (Canadian Institute for Advanced Research), Lionel Smith (University of Oxford), Marie-Ève Sylvestre (University of Ottawa, Civil Law Section), Naiomi Metallic (Dalhousie University), Jeremy Webber (University of Victoria), as well as to reporter Hélène Buzetti. We were also honoured by the presence of several other distinguished guests including Lord Reed (President of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom), Mr. François Chaix (President of the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland) and Judge Kimberly Prost (International Criminal Court). This program was co-presided by Justices Karakatsanis and Kasirer, under the leadership of the Chief Justice of Canada.

This symposium would not have been possible without the collaboration of the National Judicial Institute and the staff of the Supreme Court of Canada.

A heartfelt thank you to all who participated. Let’s keep the conversation going!