The Quebec government recently unveiled new legislation aimed at implementing stricter regulations on religious practices in both public and private settings. Secularism Minister Jean-François Roberge emphasized that this bill is a significant step in Quebec’s ongoing journey towards secularization.
Here are the key points to understand about Quebec’s latest secularism bill:
1. Prohibition on Public Prayer
The proposed legislation would prohibit “collective religious practice” in public areas like roads and parks, unless specific events are granted authorization by municipalities. This measure was prompted by Muslim prayers held during pro-Palestinian demonstrations, which were deemed as provocative. Violators of the ban could face fines.
2. Elimination of Exclusive Religious Menus
Public institutions would no longer be permitted to offer menus solely based on religious traditions, such as halal or kosher meals. This restriction would impact facilities like Montreal’s Jewish General Hospital, requiring them to provide alternative food options alongside kosher meals. Subsidized daycares would also be subject to this regulation.
3. Restrictions on Funding for Religious Schools
Under the proposed bill, private schools engaging in religious teaching during regular classroom hours or practicing religious-based student or staff selection would lose government funding. While the exact number of affected schools remains unspecified, they would be given a three-year grace period to comply with the new requirements.
4. Closure of Prayer Rooms in Public Institutions
Religious activities within public institutions, including prayer rooms in colleges and universities, will be phased out by September 2026. Exceptions will be made for institutions where individuals reside, such as prisons and long-term care facilities.
5. Expansion of Ban on Religious Attire
The bill extends the prohibition of religious symbols, such as hijabs and turbans, to individuals employed in daycares, colleges, and universities. It also outlaws full face coverings, like the niqab, for both staff and students within these educational institutions. Similar regulations have already been implemented for elementary and high schools through a previous bill passed earlier.
