What is the current status of Bill C-9? This legislation, known as the Combatting Hate Act, has recently passed the House of Commons with a vote of 186 in favor and 137 against, and is now set to be reviewed by the Senate.
Bill C-9 aims to criminalize intimidation and obstruction outside establishments used by faith-based groups and bans the intentional flaunting of certain terrorism or hate symbols in public. Notably, the bill also repeals the good faith religious speech defense from Canada’s hate speech laws, a move that has sparked significant controversy.
The amendment to remove the religious exemption was a non-negotiable condition for the Bloc Québécois’s support, leading to dissent from the Conservatives, NDP, and Green Party MP Elizabeth May. Over 350 Muslim organizations and leaders from various religious communities have voiced their opposition to the removal of the religious-text defense, indicating widespread concern regarding the implications for religious freedoms.
Justice Minister Sean Fraser has stated that the new legislation will not criminalize faith, asserting that it is designed to protect communities from hate. However, critics argue that the elimination of the religious-text defense raises significant concerns, as it has served as an essential safeguard for many years. Bishop Pierre Goudreault expressed that this change could lead to increased hostility towards Christians and pro-life advocates.
The Senate is expected to begin studying Bill C-9 on April 14, following the Easter recess. During this period, senators may suggest amendments to the bill before it potentially becomes law. The proposition to halt the third reading and send the bill back to the Standing Committee was defeated with 188 votes against and 125 in favor.
As the debate continues, the National Council of Canadian Muslims has expressed hope that the text could be amended to address their concerns. The outcome of the Senate’s review remains to be seen, and details remain unconfirmed regarding any changes that may be proposed.
