Democracy Day

Democracy Day

Onsite education programs are currently suspended. Learn more about virtual program options.

In this interactive environment, students will experience the principles of parliamentary democracy firsthand. They will participate in information sessions, workshops, and hands-on activities that will emphasize the importance of civic engagement, and democratic rights and responsibilities. 

The Democracy Day program is offered throughout the year on specific dates.

Group
Students
Minimum 20, maximum 60
Group type
Grades 7–12
Availability

(Grades 7 and 8)

10 a.m.–2: p.m.

 

(Grades 9–12)

9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Duration
4–6 hours

Advanced registration required.
Visitors (16 years of age +) must show a piece of government-issued photo identification upon entry.
Questions? Contact us at 416-325-0061 or email tourbookings@ola.org.
Note: Due to parliamentary events, program dates, times, and activities are subject to change without notice.

Program Options

Option A
The importance and impact of voting

This program option focuses on the function of parliament, the electoral process in Ontario, and civic engagement. Students will visit the Legislative Chamber to see question period (when the House is in session). They will participate in a series of interactive information sessions and a workshop that includes a mock election to gain a better understanding of Ontario's parliamentary system and the importance and impact of voting.

Prerequisite activity

Ask students to research the political parties represented in Ontario’s Parliament, thinking about their differences and similarities. In addition, ask students to find their electoral district and their MPP, as well as the school’s electoral district and MPP.

Topics covered
  • Voting Systems
  • Rights and Responsibilities of Voting
  • Political Parties and Platforms
  • Parliament vs Government
  • Role of an MPP
Option B
The role of media in politics

This program option focuses on the role of media in Ontario politics. Students will visit the Legislative Chamber to see question period (when the House is in session). They will participate in a series of interactive information sessions and a workshop that includes a press conference simulation to gain a better understanding of Ontario's parliamentary system, the evolution and impact of media coverage and informed citizenship.

Prerequisite activity

Ask students to research the use of social media in the last provincial election (party leaders' messages, news on social media, pre and post-election messages). In addition, students should research a current provincial issue in the news and provide two to three interpretations of that issue to share during the program at the Legislature. 

Topics covered
  • Media in Ontario’s Parliament
  • The evolution of reporting
  • Influence of media on the message/election
  • Fake news and politics
  • The use of social media and its impact
  • Role of an MPP