This week, the Quebec government is set to introduce new legislation to reinforce secularism within the province. The proposed bill aims to enforce a ban on religious symbols for employees working at early childhood centers (CPEs) and subsidized daycares. Additionally, it is expected to prohibit public prayers in most spaces, including all public institutions.
Furthermore, the upcoming legislation is likely to restrict the display of religious symbols in public communications by institutions and prevent public institutions from serving meals solely based on religious traditions. Quebec’s CAQ government, led by Minister Jean-François Roberge, will formally present the bill on Thursday, emphasizing the province’s commitment to secular values.
The decision to introduce this legislation follows the recommendations of the Pelchat-Rousseau report, which emerged after the Bedford School controversy in Montreal last year. The report highlighted issues of alleged toxic behavior among some teachers, leading to their suspension for actions like intimidating students and colleagues. Notably, Quebec had previously passed Bill 94 in October to bolster secularism in the province’s school system.
