Quebec plans to table bill banning prayer in public

The Quebec government is taking a bold step towards strengthening secularism in the province by introducing a bill that would ban prayer in public spaces. Secularism Minister Jean-François Roberge emphasized the importance of addressing the “proliferation of street prayer” as a serious and sensitive issue. He stated that the government is committed to fulfilling the mandate given by Premier François Legault to reinforce secularism in Quebec.

This initiative follows previous efforts by the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government to uphold secular values in the province, such as requiring immigrants to embrace Quebec’s common culture and expanding the religious symbols law to include school support staff. While specific details of how the government plans to legislate against public prayer were not provided, Premier Legault has not ruled out using the notwithstanding clause if necessary.

Critics of the proposed public prayer ban argue that it infringes on fundamental rights such as freedom of religion, expression, assembly, and association. The Canadian Civil Liberties Association warned that restricting prayer in public spaces could stigmatize communities and undermine social cohesion. They emphasized the importance of respecting diversity of belief and protecting individual rights in public areas.

Despite the pushback, the Quebec government remains resolute in its decision to introduce the bill this fall. Premier Legault has expressed his disapproval of public prayers in streets and parks, stating that such practices are not aligned with Quebec’s values. He emphasized the need for legal action to address this issue and send a clear message to those engaging in public prayer.

While some political leaders have expressed support for banning public prayer, others question the timing and necessity of such legislation. The leader of the Parti Québécois, Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, raised concerns about the delay in presenting the law, questioning why action had not been taken sooner.

The decision to ban public prayer comes in the wake of a recent advisory committee report recommending an expansion of Quebec’s secularism law, Bill 21, to prohibit early childhood educators in subsidized daycares from wearing religious symbols. The committee did not specifically recommend a ban on public prayer, suggesting that municipalities already have the authority to regulate such activities.

As the Quebec government moves forward with its plans to strengthen secularism, the debate over the ban on public prayer continues to divide opinion. While some argue for the protection of individual rights and religious freedoms, others support the government’s efforts to uphold secular values in the province. The upcoming bill banning public prayer is sure to spark further discussion and controversy in Quebec.