Canadian democracy is our most important institution, but it is often poorly understood – or worse, taken for granted. Yet the health of any democracy depends on an informed and engaged public. Democracy Day, on September 15 each year, engages Canadians of all walks of life in celebrating and learning about their democracy.

Democracy Day is part of Democracy Week (Sept 15-23, 2013) coast to coast. Events and activities are as diverse as our democracy itself: artistic and musical events, festivals, children’s activities, educational seminars, and public panel discussions. They engage citizens in everything from the history of our democracy, to democracy today, and even in imagining our democracy of the future.

A healthy democracy requires participation, so find an event in your city this Democracy Week – or create your own!