According to recent polling data, Quebecers are particularly in favor of banning public prayers, with a significant 43% of respondents stating that organized prayers in public spaces should never be allowed.
The survey, conducted by Leger, gathered opinions from Canadians nationwide following the announcement by the Quebec government to implement a ban on public prayers as part of efforts to promote secularism in the province.
Secularism Minister Jean-François Roberge revealed plans to introduce legislation this autumn to prohibit the practice.
The proposal from the provincial government comes amidst growing tensions in Quebec, especially concerning Muslim prayers held during pro-Palestinian demonstrations, including those outside Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica.
Quebec stands out with just 12% of residents supporting public prayers being allowed at all times, the lowest percentage in the country.
The online poll involved 1,592 participants surveyed between September 5 and September 7, without a specific margin of error.
Overall, 19% of Canadians believe public prayer should always be permitted, while the majority of respondents (45%) feel that prayers should only be allowed in certain specific situations, with 26% opposing public prayer entirely.
