Quebec Premier François Legault is exploring ways to eliminate prayer in public spaces, including parks, as his government prepares to introduce new legislation to reinforce secularism in schools.
During a press conference in Quebec City, Legault expressed his desire to send a strong message to Islamists that Quebec will oppose any disrespect towards its core values, such as secularism.
He condemned recent incidents of teachers allowing prayers in classrooms and restricting girls from participating in sports, labeling such actions as “completely unacceptable.”
Legault firmly stated, “There are educators introducing Islamist religious ideologies into Quebec schools. This will not be tolerated. Such practices are not welcome in Quebec.”
When asked about prayer in public places, Legault expressed concerns about individuals praying on the streets. He emphasized the need to address this issue and mentioned the government’s consideration of potential legislation.
He further stated his disapproval of public prayer in parks or streets, acknowledging discussions on the constitutionality of banning such practices. The government is exploring all options, including the use of the notwithstanding clause to override specific sections of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
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Recent images of Muslims praying in Montreal have sparked controversy, particularly when a group gathered in a city park to observe Eid al-Adha, leading the borough mayor to consider banning all religious events in public parks.
The Canadian Muslim Forum criticized Legault’s remarks, suggesting that some politicians unfairly view Muslims as second-class citizens.
Legault’s statements coincide with reports of Muslim religious practices in Quebec’s public schools. Education Minister Bernard Drainville announced plans for a new bill to reinforce secularism in Quebec schools following a report documenting students praying in a high school in Laval and disrupting educational activities.
The government is investigating multiple schools for potential breaches of the province’s secularism law, with a report on these schools expected in January.
Quebec utilized the notwithstanding clause to protect its secularism law, Bill 21, and its language law, Bill 96, from constitutional challenges.
Legault emphasized the importance of preserving Quebec’s identity and expressed openness to the idea of a Quebec constitution to safeguard values like secularism and gender equality.
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