Canada: Quebec Bill 21 disappoints faith groups

By Vakkas Dogantekin

ANKARA (AA) - A new Quebec's law that asks most public employees to leave religious values at home has drawn criticism from faith groups across the Canadian province.

The majority government passed Bill 21 by a 75-35 vote that was introduced March 28 by Minister of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion Simon Jolin-Barrette.

Quebec Premier Francois Legault lauded the bill that prohibits religious symbols and clothing, and said it is in line with the expectations of Quebecers.

Opposition leader Pierre Arcand said the “botched” law “removes” rights for people, according to the Catholic Herald website.

In order to minimize legal and technical challenges, the prohibitive law will only apply to new employees.

The National Council of Canadian Muslims said it will take the "deeply troubling" new bill to court.

“Late last night the Quebec government legalized discrimination on the basis of religion,” it wrote Monday.

Rabbi Lisa Grushcow also criticized the bill she called "worse than expected."

“Waking up with fewer rights for people that I love in a place that I love,” said the rabbi from Montreal.

Christian groups also slammed the bill, warning it will "nourish fear and intolerance, rather than contribute to social peace."

"We believe that it’s better to fight prejudices and fear for the other in a rational way, by educating people about the diversity of religious, spiritual and cultural experiences and traditions, rather than by prohibitions,” Quebec Assembly of Catholic Bishops said in a June 14 statement.