Through the lens of contemporary political issues, this course will examine the pillars of the Canadian political system - Parliamentary government, federalism and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms - and how they reflect and affect the distinctly Canadian societal cleavages: linguistic, regional, ethnic, national, and sexual. Students will develop an awareness and understanding of these concepts, institutions and processes, which will enhance their ability to interpret current political events and provide a foundation upon which to explore Canadian politics, identity, public policy and governance in upper level political science courses. (Also offered through Distance Education format.)